London 1 Data Center

Following an initial site visit with the project team, Meesons were able to gain a greater understanding of the project requirements. Secure entrance control solutions were required at several points throughout the site, as part of a layered approach to security, to prevent unauthorised access and provide protection from physical attack. The guardhouse on the perimeter of the data centre was built to enable pedestrian access to the site. Within the guardhouse, the client needed Speed Gates to control access, whilst allowing for a high level of throughput. Meesons installed three lanes of EasyGate SPD-G Speed Gates, consisting of two single wings and one wide access lane, suitable for wheelchair users. The SPD-G Speed Gates utilise advanced motor technology enabling the transit of up to 40 people per minute, per lane and provide a high holding force, preventing the wings from being forced open by unauthorised users. This solution made the best use of the available space. Adding a layer of security against a physical attack on the façade of the building a Security Portal was specified to provide 24/7 controlled unmanned access. Meesons proposed the large C190 Security Portal certified to LPS 1175 Issue 8, the first Security Portal in the world to achieve this accreditation. The C190 Security Portal provided the ideal solution, meeting a proven level of resistance to physical attack, whilst still maintaining a high level of architectural appeal. With a 1200mm wide opening, the inclusive entrance was suitable for wheelchair users. Due to the Security Portals' location on the façade of the building, a weather-resistant canopy was required to provide additional protection from the elements. Within the data centre an additional layer of security was specified to prevent unauthorised users from accessing the data halls. Meesons installed four E1G Security Portals creating a secure line to the data hall entrance. The E1G Security Portals were chosen due to their high-security rating, having been approved for UK Government use by CPNI (Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure). Each Portal was integrated with the building’s access control system and the client’s preferred biometric readers which were located within the portal. This allowed full visibility of transits into and out of the data hall. To prevent unauthorised users tailgating behind an authorised member of staff, each Security Portal was fitted with ultrasonic anti-tailgating sensors and an IP-rated 2-zone pressure mat to provide dual verification. This ensured only one user was present for each transit and that hardware could not be removed from the secure zone. To avoid any building access issues during the installation the Security Portals were delivered in a kit format and assembled on site. Due to the scale of the project, the installation of the Speed Gates and Security Portals were carried out in multiple phases in line with the client’s program of works.

The Speed Gates and third-party certified Security Portals used on this project have increased the level of security and delay at each of the layers, helping to create a highly secure site. Michael Noonan, Data Centre manager commented: "As we operate 24/7, the need for a smooth and effortless passage through our data center is highly important, and the solution we have in place from Meesons provides that." "The Meesons speed gates, main entrance airlocked door, and the security biometric portals have been a great addition to the London 1 site. It allows us to maintain our security levels between zones and permits staff and clients to access areas securely"

London 1 Data Center