Securing the Vantage Data Centre, Newport
Client: Bouygues UK
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Integrated Fencing Ltd was appointed by Bouygues UK to supply and install fencing for the Vantage Data Centre in Newport, one of the largest data centres in Europe. The facility required advanced security fencing to protect sensitive data for high-profile clients, including Microsoft. The project presented challenges due to the complex terrain and the presence of multiple underground services, requiring precision and innovation to ensure safe and efficient execution.
THE CHALLENGE
The site posed significant challenges due to existing utilities, including electric mains, gas, and water services. Previous contractors had caused two electric cable strikes, which led to their removal from the site. As a result, this created a heightened focus on safety and utility avoidance. The tight timeline of 15 weeks required efficient progress, with a target of installing 60 linear metres of 4m-high fencing every seven days while also completing various internal fencing installations.
Our Solution
We implemented a comprehensive security solution to meet the client’s requirements.
BOUNDARY SECURITY
To secure the perimeter, Integrated Fencing supplied and installed 700m of SR1-rated 4m-high 358 mesh fencing. This fencing provided a robust security solution, meeting the client’s requirements for protecting sensitive assets. The boundary fencing included automatic speed gates and manual swing gates designed to integrate seamlessly with the fencing system, ensuring both security and functionality.
INTERNAL FENCING SYSTEMS
In addition to the perimeter, the project involved installing internal fencing to segregate and secure different areas within the site. These installations included:
- SR1 SSE-standard palisade fencing to protect critical internal compounds.
- Timber post-and-rail fencing for demarcation and aesthetic purposes.
- Timber bin store compounds to keep site operations organised.
- 358 mesh compounds for additional security within the facility.
EXCAVATION WITH VAC-EX TECHNOLOGY
Due to the risks posed by underground utilities, all excavation was conducted using all-terrain Vacuum Excavation (Vac-Ex) machines. These machines minimised the risk of damaging utilities and eliminated the need for manual digging, significantly enhancing safety. The Vac-Ex equipment also identified services that were not documented, preventing potential damage and project delays.
Our fleet of all-terrain Vac-Ex machines, equipped with tracks similar to excavators, allowed for work in challenging terrain. Each machine was self-contained, carrying its own compressor for Air Lance use. This ensured that excavation work was not only precise but also efficient, allowing the team to maintain the project’s schedule.
CUSTOM FOUNDATION DESIGN
As part of our risk assessment and planning with Bouygues we had to agree on further control measures when it came to service avoidance. Our standard foundation sizes for these posts were 400x400x1200mm. Integrated fencing agreed that when a service was discovered below a hole, we would change the foundation size to 1500x1500x600mm to ensure we avoided them.
HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Health and safety were a top priority throughout the project. A strict “no hand dig” policy was enforced, and all operatives were trained and certified to use the Vac-Ex machinery. Weekly meetings with Bouygues allowed for health and safety reviews, programme updates, and toolbox talks to address any site issues promptly. Site management also conducted pre-start risk assessments, confirming the absence of overhead services and planning the safe use of all-terrain Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) for the 4m-high installations.
PROJECT OUTCOME
Despite the challenging site conditions, Integrated Fencing successfully completed the project on time and within budget. The use of innovative Vac-Ex technology ensured zero utility strikes, safeguarded workers, and supported the timely delivery of the fencing systems. The client praised Integrated Fencing for its collaborative approach, strict safety protocols, and ability to adapt to unexpected challenges.
- 700m of SR1-rated 4m-high 358 mesh fencing with integrated automatic speed gates and manual swing gates.
- Internal fencing solutions, including SR1 palisade fencing, timber post-and-rail systems, and 358 mesh compounds.
- Precision excavation with Vac-Ex technology, eliminating the risk of underground utility damage.
- Custom foundation designs tailored to site conditions.
- Comprehensive safety protocols, weekly reviews, and training for all operatives.
OUR CLOSING THOUGHTS
“Integrated Fencing were delighted to hand over this project to the client. This was a very challenging site with numerous obstacles to overcome in order to achieve completion. By working closely with Bouygues and leveraging our expertise and resources, we successfully delivered the project on time, maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. This achievement underscores our commitment to meeting client needs, even in the most challenging environments.“
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