Guide to Construction Site Fencing

Construction Site Security Fencing

The temporary fencing (or hoarding) around a construction site is covered by regulations.

There are several purposes for construction site fencing:

• Shield the site from the view of the public
• Prevent access to any unauthorised people
• Limit access related to destruction or vandalism
• Make the barriers to the site obvious

The Health & Safety at Work Act also states that employers must protect members of the public who are passing a construction site. Clear perimeters using temporary site fencing and signage should be visible at all times.

Insurance and legal claims against theft and accidents will also be voided if there was no security fencing in place at the time. It is the construction company’s responsibility to ensure fencing is in place.

But fencing systems may also need to be used internally, which isolates areas of vehicular access, closing off unsafe areas and ensuring people stick to planned paths.

Basically, it is an essential part of all construction sites. Speedy Services have a range of temporary fencing types available for hire, for however long required.

Below is a guide on construction site fencing.

The Difference Between Fencing and Hoarding

Both fencing and hoarding are designed to keep out unwanted guests and keep items inside the site harder to get to.

Fencing is made from some form of metal and is see-through. The wire design means visibility is two-way, and it allows light through. Hoarding, on the other hand, is solid, allowing no visibility or light.

Which do you need? For most construction sites, ordinary fencing is fine, as it limits access. Any items which could be targeted by thieves or vandals should be kept out of sight anyway. But hoarding will be beneficial for any sites with high-security requirements.

Fabric privacy screens can still be used on mesh fencing if visibility needs to be reduced.

What you need to consider when choosing fencing

1. Fencing Height & Material

Most construction sites will require hoarding which is at least 2m tall. The taller the fencing, however, the more secure it can be. So, inner-city sites or those with very expensive equipment may require up to 3 metres.

The most important aspect is that it is anti-climb, no matter how tall it is. Fencing is commonly made from steel or similar metals.

2. Construction

Fencing comes in panels. This way, you can cater the fencing length and shape to your requirements. Blocks, barriers, clips, and stabilisers can all be hired from Speedy Services alongside the fence panels.

Clips and bolts should all have tamper-proof fixings, which are only accessible from the inside of the site.

3. Access

There are several access options available with fencing. There are pedestrian gates, digitally controlled gates, or vehicle gates.

They should be the same size as the surrounding fencing and be securely attached.

What are the consequences if fencing doesn’t comply?

Every year, accidents on construction sites happen because the fencing used is not suitable or correctly stabilised.

The British Standard 1722-18:2011 includes all of the detailed guidelines and recommendations. Not following these will not result in a fine or punishment, but if an accident was to occur because of poor fencing, it could negatively influence the outcome of any investigations.

Incidents can occur with workers, visitors and bystanders or members of the public. You may even be responsible for any accidents involving trespassers.

IS THERE SITE FENCING HIRE NEAR ME?

Yes. Speedy Services, the UK's leading tool hire company, have a range of site fencing options for hire nationwide. Speedy has more than 200 service centres across the nation and nationwide 4-hour delivery.

Why not open a Speedy account today online and in-store?