Fences are the most direct form of security for any type of property, clearly defining and protecting boundaries. For commercial operations, this can mean securing sensitive equipment and areas against unauthorized access. Several varieties of fencing are available for this purpose, including barbed wire and electric fences.
Choosing the right type of fence for your commercial operation as part of a layered security solution safeguards your property and demonstrates your organization’s commitment to protecting assets and personnel.
Table of Contents
- How Electic Fencing Enhances Security
- All About Electric Fences
- What You Need to Know About Barbed Wire
- Is an Electric or Barbed Wire Better for Security?
How Electric Fencing Enhances Security
A well-designed electric fence protects your property against theft and vandalism while preventing unauthorized access. Gates with locks, access control systems, and video surveillance are added measures that can increase the effectiveness of fencing for security. Cameras mounted near fences can monitor perimeter activity and help deter criminal activity before it happens.
Some types of fencing can be tailored to meet specific security requirements using enhancements, allowing it to serve a property’s unique needs.
Fencing, particularly electric fencing, is an excellent complement to other security measures. Because fences can guide or limit people’s movement, they can support surveillance efforts, making it easier for cameras to monitor specific areas. Enhancements such as LED lights and sirens go further by calling attention to breaches once the alarm is triggered. By combining the benefits of fencing with additional security solutions, you can enhance your property’s overall safety, bolster your defense against potential threats, and experience greater peace of mind.
Note that there may be limits to your fencing options and additional enhancements depending on where your property is located. Both electric fencing and barbed wire are subject to legal regulations and considerations, particularly if they are installed in urban settings.
All About Electric Fences
A well-defined fence also establishes clear property boundaries, reducing the risk of legal disputes relating to encroachment or trespassing. Electric fences deliver a safe but memorable shock to deter intruders. The shock comes from a high-voltage pulse traveling through the fence wire. This shock is enough to startle and discourage anyone from trying to access your property without permission. These fences offer the following advantages:
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- Proactive: Warning signs on electric fencing may discourage potential intruders, as the threat of shock can be a strong deterrent to criminal activity.
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- Cost-effective: Electric fencing has a high return on investment, especially as part of a layered security system.
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- Versatile: Electric fencing can be used in various settings, from industrial sites to agricultural wells, warehouses, and other commercial properties.
Because they run on electricity or solar power, these fences easily integrate with monitoring systems that alert property owners or security personnel when they are compromised or otherwise tampered with. Electric fences are also highly adaptable for various terrain types and allow the installation of controlled entry points like gates where needed.
Combining Electric Fences With a Layered Security System
A layered security system uses multiple safeguards to protect your property. Using layers makes it harder for intruders to penetrate your security system, and should one measure fail, you have others in place for comprehensive protection. Property owners often combine electric fences with additional security measures like:
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- Surveillance cameras: Cameras that monitor the perimeter can alert security personnel to potential breaches and enable a swift response. They also provide valuable recordings when an incident requires investigation.
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- Motion sensors: Motion sensors detect movement near fencing and can trigger alarms to notify security of perimeter activity.
- Access control: Limit entry points to your property with access control. Electronic access control gates manage who enters and exits, enhancing your security on-site.
What You Need to Know About Barbed Wire
Barbed wire is a strand of wire with sharp edges or points placed at periodic intervals. It’s often used in agricultural settings to keep animals contained. In commercial applications, barbed wire is commonly placed on top of a chain link fence to discourage climbing. There are various styles of barbed wire fencing, including single-strand and double-strand designs with varying barb spacings.
With its sharp protrusions, barbed wire fencing can be dangerous for people and animals, leading to potentially significant injuries for employees, customers, or wildlife. This hazard opens up the risk of legal action or liability issues in the event of accidental injury.
Barbed wire also lacks aesthetic benefits. It can be seen as unsightly and may not be appropriate for all environments. Additionally, this fencing type is not considered a complete deterrent and will need to be used in conjunction with other security measures.
Is an Electric Fence or Barbed Wire Better for Security?
When it comes to securing your commercial property, electric fences have distinct advantages over barbed wire. If you are still unsure, here’s a comparison between the two:
| Feature | Electric Fence | Barbed Wire |
| Purpose | Deters intruders with a physical barrier and a mild electric shock. | Creates a barbed physical barrier to contain livestock or deter intruders. |
| Effectiveness | The safe but memorable shock and warning signs provide a good deterrent to intruders. | It is effective as a physical barrier but can be breached with some effort. |
| Safety | The electric pulses deliver a mild, controlled shock that is medically safe. | It can hook into the skin, causing cuts, tearing, and potentially severe injury. |
| Durability | Highly durable with proper maintenance. | Requires minimal upkeep after installation. |
| Flexibility | Easily adjusted or removed, can cover complex terrain. | Less flexible and hard to adjust once installed. |
| Legal Considerations | Must feature warning signs that allow people to recognize the chance of electric shock. | May be subject to legal considerations and must comply with property laws. |
| Deterrent Factor | Psychological deterrent due to the potential shock. | Physical deterrent due to the sharp barbs. |
Enhance Your Perimeter Security With AMAROK
When choosing between barbed wire and electric fencing for your commercial property, it is essential to understand both options. Barbed wire lacks visual appeal and may present liability issues, whereas electric fences offer physical and psychological barriers.
Electric security fences are ideal for properties with high-security needs, controlled access and real-time monitoring, especially as part of a layered security system.
AMAROK offers industry-leading security solutions to help keep your commercial property safe and protected. We provide reliable electric fence solutions like The Electric Guard Dog™ Electric Fence, which has a proven 99% efficacy rate. Our perimeter electric fence systems will protect your assets with a physical barrier and a shocking deterrent. We also offer fence enhancements like alarms and lights for the utmost protection.
Contact us today for more information or to schedule your free Threat Assessment. Our team will help you develop a comprehensive perimeter security plan.
