Security Underlockandkey
Security in the rail sector goes far beyond simply locking doors in railway stations, there are many applications along the track that require security solutions, and providing access for different staff and contractors presents a unique
challenge.Barry Jenkins looks at how new technology can help secure crossings, access gates, signalling and telecoms boxes
T
he rail sector requires security over a huge geographical area, with various control centres, overhead gantries and crossings
in need of security solutions. Standard measures are high security padlocks and cylinders, as the first step to helping to protect the UK’s transport network from terrorist attacks and safeguarding valuable trackside equipment from thieves and vandals.
But there is more that can be done, with new innovations in the security industry providing improved solutions. Older mechanical master key systems that are not patent protected are easily compromised, while system add-ons are difficult to support, meaning that ensuring all areas are secure can become expensive. Installing a new, patent protected system can be the answer, offering tiered access across a large number of sites. Patent protected keys cannot be copied at a high street locksmith without special authorisation, meaning that borrowed keys cannot be duplicated and cause a security breach.
The easiest way to manage a security system in the rail sector is with masterkey systems that offer staff one key that gains access to all the areas that they require. Having just one key for each employee cuts down the risks associated with a large bunch of keys, as well as being more convenient.
Electro-mechanical solutions Electro-mechanical locking solutions that use web-based technology offer rail service providers enhanced and flexible security, convenience and versatility. By integrating mechanical keys with electronics, companies can have a greater control over who has access and at what time.
This technology is based on highly miniaturised data encryption electronics, which are embedded directly inside the key and cylinder. The key contains a unique electronic ID code that cannot be duplicated, altered or corrupted. The web-based software allows for access
rights to be granted or withheld for certain times via an updater device. This complete electronic security management can even grant variable access rights for personnel visiting remote, secure locations. Padlocks can be incorporated into a patent protected masterkey system or even be part of an electromechanical solution. Padlocks are available in open, closed and long shackle designs providing various levels of security to suit individual applications. Some variants achieve the highest security grade of BS EN 12320:2001, accompanied with the highest grade of corrosion resistance as per BS EN 12320:2001. Open shackle padlocks are the more ‘traditional’ in shape and are most widely used, while the long shackle models are employed for applications where space is a consideration and other padlocks aren’t practical. Finally, there are closed shackle padlocks that offer increased security, with the padlock housing extending up the shackle, providing additional protection against bolt cutter and saw attacks.
‘Patent protected keys cannot be copied at a high street locksmith without special authorisation’
Using new solutions to secure the rail industry means that all of the challenges that have traditionally affected the sector can be circumvented. Whether it be switching to an electro-mechanical solution that uses web software or installing a patent protected masterkey system, there are now effective ways of maintaining a reliable, yet versatile security system that helps a service run smoothly while protecting valuable trackside assets.
Barry Jenkins is market development manager at Abloy UK, a manufacturer of locks, locking systems, architectural hardware and electromechanical locking technology. Visit:
www.abloy.co.uk
AUGUST 2012 PAGE 37
Shutterstock/Catalin Petolea
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