A guide to specifying Security Portals for high risk buildings: LPS 1175

When it comes to protecting buildings that are at risk of forced entry there really is no substitute for specifying an LPS 1175 approved Security Portal to create a robust entry barrier. This internationally recognised standard sets out the testing procedures needed to meet enhanced security performance requirements and covers a wide range of building components, strong points, security enclosures and freestanding barriers. For the first time, it now covers Security Portals.

Buildings that are at risk of forced entry are usually those that contain high value assets such as premium jewellery shops, through to records’ offices or sensitive data storage facilities. All these buildings are vulnerable to forced entry and criminals will generally focus on the weakest part of the building, which they perceive to be the entrance.

Here, in our latest blog, we answer some of the frequently asked questions when looking to create a physical entry barrier that is capable of withstanding a physical attack by criminals, whilst still allowing free passage for legitimate users.

How do I create a robust physical entry barrier?

Until relatively recently specifiers had to choose between a low level security solution that looked aesthetically pleasing such as a revolving door, but which isn’t designed to resist a forced entry attempt and wouldn’t meet LPS 1175, or choose an LPS 1175 approved doorset that creates a robust physical entrance barrier but won’t prevent tailgating. Security doors also feature minimal glazing, look imposing, lack aesthetic appeal and are visually unsuitable for many commercial buildings.

Until now there were very few other options available. However, our LPS1175 Security Portals are now capable of meeting SR1-3 rating whilst featuring large glazed areas for superior aesthetics making them suitable for use on buildings where architectural sightlines are a priority. Security doesn’t get much tougher, either – we also offer bullet resistant glazing – BR3/S EN1063 on our SR3 LPS1175 Security Portal, where extreme levels of force may be used.

Which Security Portals achieve LPS 1175?

We offer a range of Security Portals that meet LPS 1175:

C3 S1-S3 – a spacious interlock system with a high level of glazing and architectural appeal. The wide entrance access with bi-parting 4 door configuration makes it suitable for wheelchair users.

C190 S1-S3 – a large interlock system specifically designed for the entrances for building providing a high level of security with architectural appeal. Configurable as an interlock or for simultaneous transits the C190 with a 1200mm wide entrance provides an alternative to a revolving door and is suitable for wheelchair access.

Our C3 & C190 Security Portals are LPS 1175 approved and Secured by Design (SBD) accredited.

What is the difference between Secured by Design and LPS 1175?

LPS 1175 sets out the specification for testing and classifying the burglary resistance of building components, strong-points and security enclosures. This includes security portals, doors, shutters and grilles primarily for commercial premises and for higher risk domestic premises. It is recognised by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the Police. The LPS 1175 standard has 8 levels, SR8 being the highest.

Secured by Design (SBD), the national police crime prevention initiative, seeks to improve both the security of buildings with security-related products, like doors and windows that meet its Police Preferred Specification standard, and incorporate crime prevention techniques and measures into the layout and landscaping of the immediate surroundings.

SBD’s Police Preferred Specification accreditation requires products to be tested independently against rigorous physical attack under United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) laboratory conditions using a variety of tools – and re-tested regularly along with inspections of the manufacturer’s production facilities to ensure that quality has been maintained over time.

LPS 1175 testing is carried out by BRE, using the test formulated by the LPCB (Loss Prevention Certification Board). LPCB uses fully equipped laboratories that are independently accredited by UKAS. SBD requires products not only to have been tested to relevant security standards but also fully certified by an independent third-party certification body accredited by UKAS.

The LPS 1175 standard sets out the specification for testing and classifying the burglary resistance of building components, strong-points and security enclosures. This includes security portals, doors, shutters and grilles primarily for commercial premises and for higher risk domestic premises. It is recognised by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the Police. The LPS 1175 standard has 8 levels, SR8 being the highest.

LPS 1175 evaluates a product’s resistance to forced entry by a wide range of potential intruders, including those who are prepared to make a noise using a range of tools such as hammers and saws.

The following Meesons’ Security Portals achieve both LPS 1175 SR1, 2, 3 and Secured by Design accreditation.

C190-S1 to S3 Cylindrical Security Portals

C3-S1 to S3 Cylindrical Security Portals

When should I specify LPS 1175?

LPS 1175 is now a requirement on projects in many different sectors including: education, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, the public sector, residential, retail and utilities.

The LPS 1175 standard provides independent verification that the Security Portals will deliver and will continue to deliver the performance and attack resistance to delay criminals.

What different levels of security robustness do LPS 1175 Security Portals need to meet?

Our LPS 1175 Security Portals have undergone a range of independent tests using a wide range of tools. As the security rating increases from SR1 through to SR3, the size and weight of tools required to compromise the portals also increase along with the time to withstand the attack. A full list of requirements and tools, along with photos, can be found here.

Can criminals gain access without using force?

Yes, which is why it’s important that your LPS 1175 Security Portals incorporate anti-tailgating technology. Our Security Portals feature a standalone air-lock unit that provides a high level of security, making them very effective at preventing tailgating. They include APD technology (Anti Piggy-Backing Device) which scans the portal with an ultrasonic sensor combined with a two zone pressure mat to ensure that only one person has entered. If more than one person is present in the portal, an alarm is triggered and the transit is denied.

Will the Security Portal look good?

The fact that our Security Portals incorporate large glazed areas and minimal framework, creating a high degree of transparency, means that legitimate users may not even notice that they are traversing a highly secure entrance barrier. Customised colours or cladding can also help the Security Portal to blend in to its surroundings. However, because they meet the requirements of LPS 1175 it forms a robust physical barrier for anyone that tries to use force to gain access. This makes our LPS 1175 Security Portals suitable for specifiers looking for style and aesthetics but not wanting to compromise on security.

Where can I buy LPS 1175 Security Portals?

To see our full range of LPS 1175 approved Security Portals click here. We operate nationwide and would be happy to talk to you about your specific requirements.