Rhys Richardson, CRO at CLD Physical Security Systems (CLD), discusses the importance of specifying the correct security fencing solutions for leisure environments.

Leisure facilities – such as zoos and sports arenas – can be challenging to secure, often featuring a range of unique and complex requirements.

For example, zoos need to secure enclosures to protect animals and visitors, while a sports stadium must focus on crowd control, preventing pitch invasions and ensuring the safety of players and spectators.  

Robust security is required without compromising the visitor or spectator experience.

With this in mind, what considerations must be given when specifying security fencing in these environments?   

Zoo security  

Zoos and wildlife parks play an important role in the protection, education and research of endangered species.

Zoo security is not just about creating a secure and safe environment for both animals and visitors, but also to protect against theft.   

Zoo and wildlife park fencing is an essential part of the building and construction process, which enables both animals and visitors to be kept safe.

But to maintain high levels of security, certain measures must be followed.  

Where dangerous carnivorous animals are enclosed, access gates must be protected by fencing.

This fencing must be positioned at right angles to the perimeter fencing on either side of the roadway within the enclosure.  

If electric fencing is used in any enclosure, this must be checked daily and there must also be a backup power supply in the case of a power cut.

Some enclosures where non-domestic animals are kept may not require overnight containment, however, for some, predator-proof fencing is essential overnight.  

Making the correct choice 

When designing and manufacturing fencing for zoos, the safety and security of both the animals and visitors is paramount and enclosures must be secure, offer protection, and provide visual appeal.   

Many animals within zoos are extremely intelligent, meaning it’s vital that fencing enclosures help to protect these endangered species while keeping any unauthorised personnel from accessing enclosures.   

When designing and manufacturing a zoo enclosure, fencing providers should work closely with zoo advisors, the police and a range of other specialists to ensure the best solution.

This can require research and liaising with experts to guarantee that the fencing system is safe and secure and able to withstand any eventuality.  

For example, we previously created a lion enclosure that measured five metres high, ensuring lions could not jump and clear the fencing, as well as preventing people from climbing and accessing the enclosure.  

Certain species may need an entire fencing and roof enclosure to maintain security – such as a monkey enclosure.

However, enclosure fencing for smaller animals may be simpler with less height or roofing required.

In short, there really is no benchmark for specifying zoo fencing and each project is bespoke to the zoo and its purpose.  

Securing sports environments  

Whether securing the arena of a Premier League club or a local team’s pitch, having appropriate sports fencing is incredibly important to ensure that trespassers cannot easily access facilities.

Fencing dramatically reduces the risk of damage, as well as providing safety for sports people, players and spectators.  

Proper spectator fencing must be strong while providing a clear view of the sports event.

Solutions include standard and rebound Dulok wire mesh systems available in a range of heights to suit the needs of the site, offering both safety and good visibility.

As well as fencing and gates, privacy screens and pitch dividers are also available.  

Improved aesthetics from attractive security fencing helps make sports venues more visually appealing too, with the ability to design and manufacture fencing to fit in with a particular branding or style.  

Working with trusted partners  

Getting the right security fencing solution for leisure facilities such as a zoo or sports club requires years of experience and knowledge.

So, it’s important to work with suppliers who not only have the right products, but who truly understand the environment and any specific challenges.  

All stakeholders in the project should be engaged from the outset and we take a holistic approach to specification and installation.

We visit a site along with our specialist installer partners to ensure that all aspects of security and safety are covered in the design brief and our technical team is there to support right through the installation process.  

We also have a range of versatile products suited to leisure environments, such as the double-wire Dulok fencing system, which allows clear and safe viewing alongside a raft of additional security features.  

In conclusion, securing leisure facilities is a complex but essential task that requires careful consideration of various factors, but taking a collaborative approach will help ensure robust security without compromising visitor or spectator experience.  

This article was originally published in the August Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.