Client case study - Hilti

Security solutions for multiple and diverse sites

About Hilti GB

Hilti design and manufacture leading-edge technology, software and services for the global construction industry. Founded in 1941 in Liechtenstein, the business is now well established in over 120 countries. With plans to modernise their UK estate, including a new distribution centre and head office, Hilti chose us as their delivery partner for innovative, technology-based security solutions.

Built-in security

Hilti’s retail sites and distribution centre hold high value stock, including cutting edge power tools and advanced human augmentation exoskeletons. Renowned for its innovative approach to developing products and services, Hilti wanted a security partner with the same ethos.

With big plans to modernise their entire UK estate, Hilti asked our Solutions team to propose technology-based security measures for their future distribution centre and head office. The company also wanted the Solutions team to provide recommendations for improving security at their existing retail sites, in particular to reduce costs by being less reliant on man guarding. “We chose Securitas because they could meet our immediate requirements but also had the capabilities we were seeking long term,” explains Lance HamiltonGriffiths, Facilities Manager for Hilti GB.

The Solutions team reviewed the retail estate and agreed ‘what good looks like’. This established a base line requirement that will see man guarding hours reduced in favour of remote security, delivered via updated CCTV and alarm systems which can be monitored by the Securitas Operations Centre (SOC). We then surveyed and produced separate proposals for each site, covering every detail – right down to the location of each sensor. “The consultation process and their expertise has been very clear and precise throughout,” says Hamilton-Griffiths. Integrated security solutions Our proposals for bespoke security solutions for their next generation distribution centre and head office were equally thorough, but since both are new sites, we were starting with a blank canvas. At the 1,600-acre Carrington Gateway distribution site we proposed and have subsequently installed a remote security system using external CCTV cameras with alarm detection around the perimeter and further cameras in the loading bay area.

All cameras are monitored by the SOC, which, in the event of untoward activity, will issue an audible warning and, if required, despatch a mobile patrol to the area. We also installed access control systems including automated vehicle barriers and pedestrian turnstiles with video intercom to ensure only authorised personnel gain entry. We installed similar electronic access control at their new 42,000 sq. ft offices in Circle Square, Manchester enabling secure entry via a swipe card issued to all staff. We have also installed (and monitor) CCTV and intruder alarm systems at the office site. “Timeframes were clear, and Securitas held firm to them, but they were also happy to apply revision after revision to ensure we got what we required” says Hamilton-Griffiths, “That’s been very important in building trust in the relationship. They also understand what we’re trying to achieve and are working hard to help us get there,” he adds. “As an organisation they have a very joinedup approach across all divisions, from consultation through to installation and ongoing maintenance and monitoring services. We really feel they take a longterm view of our partnership and have been committed to getting it right from the beginning.” 

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