In response to the increased demand for oxygen supplies following the 2020 pandemic and subsequent rise in respiratory-related conditions, Jacksons Fencing completed a key project this year to safeguard vital oxygen storage facilities at a leading hospital.
The pandemic highlighted the critical role of oxygen in treating patients, leading to a surge in its use across hospitals.
Some facilities even declared major incidents due to oxygen shortages, prompting a significant government investment of over £15 million to upgrade oxygen supplies and prevent future disruptions.
As part of these improvements, many larger hospitals now feature on-site liquid oxygen storage facilities, where vast industrial tankers convert liquid oxygen to gas as needed.
Given the stringent safety requirements associated with liquid oxygen—due to its extremely low temperatures, precise pressure needs, and related fire and explosion risks—securing and managing these supplies is paramount.
To address these needs, Jacksons Fencing provided and installed a comprehensive security solution for a new oxygen storage compound.
The installation includes 38 metres of Securi-Mesh fencing, standing at a robust height of 2.4 metres. This fencing is mounted on concrete hardstanding and is complemented by two cantilever sliding gates and a single-leaf pedestrian gate with a push pad exit and key entry.
Securi-Mesh fencing features a tightly woven mesh pattern designed to deter climbing attempts, and its small apertures significantly improve resistance to cutting. Additionally, the mesh provides an ‘invisible screen’ effect that allows for effective surveillance without obstructing views, facilitating quick issue identification.
The cantilever sliding gates installed are particularly well-suited for the restricted space in front of the facility. Unlike traditional swing gates, these gates slide parallel to the fence line, requiring minimal space both in front of and behind the fence. This design not only maximises space efficiency but also enhances security with quick operational cycles, allowing for faster vehicle and goods transit, reducing the time the gates remain open and minimising security risks.
Furthermore, the absence of ground tracks for the cantilever gates reduces maintenance needs by preventing issues related to debris or track damage, leading to fewer repairs and reduced downtime.
In addition to these features, the fencing and gates are backed by a 25-year guarantee, ensuring long-term durability and minimal maintenance. The green polyester powder coating chosen for the fencing provides extra corrosion resistance and contributes to lower long-term costs for the hospital.
Sections of the fencing, installed at varying heights, are further secured with a Barbican vertical bar fan panel, which offers both a physical barrier to intrusion and a visual deterrent.
Peter Jackson, Managing Director, Jacksons Fencing comments on the success of the project, "Contributing to this vital project, enhancing the security of oxygen storage facilities at a UK hospital, is a significant achievement. The pandemic highlighted the crucial role of oxygen, we must safeguard these resources effectively.
The integration of our Securi-Mesh fencing and cantilever sliding gates reflects our commitment to providing both superior protection and operational efficiency. By addressing the specific security needs of these vital resources, we help ensure that hospitals can focus on delivering high-quality patient care without disruption.”
