Why select a security tested fence?

Contractors, specifiers and end-users often look for an accredited fencing system to ensure the security and credibility of the solution they are using.

Accreditation can often also be an insurance requirement. So, for this reason we want to highlight the accredited options available and provide more insight into our range of security tested fencing solutions. 

Third-party security testing   

Whilst there are a number of organisations that provide accreditations, we have chosen to focus on two of the leading third-party organisations that provide security tested certification. 

Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), which is a part of BRE*. It is a globally recognised third-party certification body. It has been delivering certainty that a product conforms in accordance with stated specifications for reducing security risks for more than 150 years.  

Its certification is underpinned by robust testing, the evaluation of products and supporting documentation, and the auditing of manufacturers’ supporting processes. BRE’s forced entry testing of physical security equipment is renowned around the world, and is recognised by a growing number of governments, regulators, multinational end-users, police and insurers.   

ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing Materials, has more than 12,000 standards, providing confidence to people and businesses in the performance of the products they are using.  

*The BRE delivers innovative and rigorous products, services, standards and qualifications used around the globe to make buildings better for people and the environment. 

If you have a fence or security product that you will rely on for safety or security then third-party certification demonstrates that it meets the right standards.  

LPS 1175 vs F-2781, which standard is right for you?  

Let’s compare the LPCB’s LPS 1175 vs ATSM International’s F-281… 

Each accreditation proves that the fencing is effective, even when met with the challenge of an intruder during certain circumstances. It is these certain ‘circumstances’ that the accreditations test for and it is where there are differences between the two standards.  

The LPCB’s Loss Prevention Standard 1175 (LPS 1175) is a widely opted accreditation which demonstrates the effectiveness of a fencing solution when being attacked by a range of intruders, even when those looking to force entry are unconcerned about making noise.  

The LPS 1175 standard looks at eight security rating (SR) grades which are defined by the tools adopted by intruders, as well as the time available to them. For this reason, this standard is often suited to scenarios where attackers are unlikely to be immediately spotted or heard.  

Following the LPCB’s comprehensive testing process, purchasers and specifiers are able to use the LPS 1175 classification system to select fencing systems which best match their security requirements. 

How does it work?  

The matrix below highlights the threat level against a category of tools (lettered A-H) which is  then mapped against the delay time, to achieve the security rating. So, for a fence to be able to withstand attack for at least 5 minutes with a bolt cutter, it would hold an SR3 rating.

Sourced from BRE

The ASTM F-2781 standard also considers the tools being used under attack and adopts three classifications.  

• Low Threat Level (L) – able to withstand attack from handheld tools. Exempt tools from this category are power tools and any devices that require more than one person to transport and operate.  
• Medium Threat Level (M) – able to withstand attack from handheld tools and those operated by a battery. However, tools exempt from this category are power tools requiring an outside power source or self-contained gasoline or battery driven tools and devices requiring more than two persons to transport and operate. 
• Aggressive Threat Level (A) – here the tools available are wider and include battery powered tools and larger petrol driven tools operated by two people.  

For each threat level, a product is attributed an average delay in minutes which indicates how long the product can delay an attacker using each of the tools specified above. 

So, when selecting a security rated fence, you will need to consider not only the tools highlighted above but also the length of time an attacker may have, taking into account any prior knowledge your attacker may have to be fully equipped.  

This is a key differentiator, as the LPCB tests are rigorous and attack the entire system, including fixings and posts as well as the joins. The independent certification from the LPCB provides confirmation that a product or system meets and continues to meet the appropriate standard. 

In comparison the ASTM’s testing process only addresses the fence panel and does not include attack methods such as trying to break the fence down by removing it from the ground. In addition, the standard is not continually audited.  

If you are looking for an approved fence, the ExMesh™ range offers a wide variety of approved security fences such as:  

• Securilath™ security mesh, which is the only security mesh range to be certified by the LPCB when applied to metal stud, timber stud and block walls. It is a discreet method to target harden critical areas and is easy to install with options available to suit specified requirements.  
• ProtEx 1 – is a robust security fence, certified to LPS 1175 SR1** so able to provide resistance against attacks with tools cush as cable cutters and pliers.  
• ProtEx 2 – an approved superior perimeter defence system it is tested to LPS 1175 SR2 

• ProtEx 3 – is an exclusive, British-made fencing solution that is double skinned, with a unique post stringer and mesh design to significantly deter the most aggressive attack and has been certified LPS 1175 SR3.  
  

In addition, our security fences are hot dipped galvanised to EN ISO 1461:2022 and can be supplied as complete systems with a range of gates and toppings available.  

Contact us to discuss your requirements on +44 (0)1429 867 388 or email fencing@exmesh.co.uk.  

You can also view our Perimeter Security Products Overview brochure in English or Arabic.