Safetell Safeguards Place of Worship against External Threats
Places of worship are a potential target for hate crime attacks, and it is imperative to protect the religious community within the building from external threats. A concerned religious establishment approached Safetell while looking for a solution to ensure their security and safety.
Challenge
Safetell was approached based on the architectural conceptual drawings that were initially accepted by the client. The project required a solution that would provide protection against manual attacks, intrusion, vehicles used as weapons, and firearm attacks while maintaining an aesthetic appearance that was unobtrusive and sympathetic to the surroundings. The security system had to be fixed on top of a vaulted crypt, which posed a challenge as a foundation had to be created to support the system.
Solution
Safetell designed and constructed a two-part security system that met the project’s needs. The first part was a reinforced version of the ornamental railings that were originally in place, and the second part was a secondary ballistic glazed system that spanned the entrance to the building behind the railings. PAS68 bollards were also installed to shield the building from potential attacks.
To maintain the ornate appearance, Safetell had to overcome the challenge of creating a foundation to support the system on top of the vaulted crypt. The solution involved fixing the posts securely, despite the weakened 19th-century steel and clinker slab below. The railings had to open outwards for easy access to the glass for cleaning and had to have no visible fixings. Safetell was able to achieve this by adding bespoke hidden latches and hinge mechanisms and colour-coordinated cover plates on all external fixings.
Outcome
The security system provided the necessary protection required while maintaining an aesthetic appearance that was unobtrusive and sympathetic to the surroundings, demonstrating Safetell’s commitment and expertise in providing security solutions that meet the unique requirements of each project.