SR2 high security fencing for data centres

Data centres invest heavily in cyber security, and rightly so. Firewalls, threat monitoring, access controls, and network protection play a vital role in safeguarding the digital assets housed within these critical facilities. Yet cyber security alone cannot protect a site if an intruder can physically breach the perimeter. True resilience comes from a layered security approach where physical and cyber defences work together to deter, detect, and delay threats.

This is where SR2 high security fencing plays a crucial role. Designed to withstand determined attacks and independently tested to recognised security standards, it provides the robust perimeter protection required for modern data centres. Combined with other high security perimeter fencing solutions, such as SR3 certified acoustic barriers, it forms a critical component of a comprehensive site security strategy and an integral part of a layered security approach.

When designing a robust high security fencing strategy for a data centre, specifying independently tested and certified solutions is essential. Products such as Securi-Mesh^® Plus B3 (SR2) offer proven resistance against determined attacks, helping operators protect valuable assets while meeting stringent security requirements.

For sites where acoustic performance and enhanced security are equally important, combining SR2 mesh fencing with SR3 (C5) acoustic barriers, such as Jakoustic^® Class 3, can provide a highly effective perimeter solution.

What is SR2 High Security Fencing?

SR2 is a recognised security rating under the LPCB LPS 1175 testing standard. Under the current LPS 1175 Issue 8 framework, the equivalent classification is known as B3, although many specifiers and security professionals still refer to the rating as SR2. The certification demonstrates that a fencing system has been independently tested against sustained attack using a defined range of tools and methods.

An SR2 rated fence is designed to resist a more determined opportunistic attack, including attempts using tools such as bolt cutters, claw hammers, drills, and other handheld equipment. The purpose is not to make a perimeter impossible to breach, but to significantly delay an intruder, providing valuable time for detection, response, and intervention.

This delay principle is critical in modern security design. Physical security measures work alongside surveillance systems, intruder detection technology, and security personnel. By slowing down an intrusion attempt, SR2 fencing helps ensure that attackers are detected and challenged before gaining access to critical assets.

Why Do Data Centres Require SR2 High Security Fencing?

Data centres are amongst the most important facilities in modern infrastructure. They support cloud computing platforms, financial services, communications networks, healthcare systems, and countless business operations. Any disruption can have significant operational and financial consequences.

Because of this, data centres are considered high risk Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sites that require enhanced perimeter protection. Standard commercial fencing may deter casual trespassers, but it is unlikely to provide the level of resistance required against determined intrusion attempts. This is where SR2 high security fencing offers a substantial advantage.

An SR2 certified perimeter helps data centre operators:

Deter unauthorised access.

Delay intrusion attempts.

Support compliance with security requirements.

Reduce risks to critical infrastructure.

Complement CCTV, access control, and perimeter detection systems.

Demonstrate the use of independently tested security measures.

As many modern data centres occupy large sites with multiple security zones, the perimeter fence becomes the first line of defence. Selecting a certified high security perimeter fencing solution gives operators confidence that their boundary protection has been rigorously tested against real-world attack scenarios.

Securi-Mesh^® Plus B3 (SR2): Proven Protection for Data Centres

One of the most effective solutions for data centre security is Securi-Mesh^® Plus B3 (SR2).

This LPCB certified fencing system has been specifically engineered for higher security applications where standard mesh fencing is insufficient. The system features a double layer of 358 welded mesh with extremely small apertures that help prevent climbing and reduce opportunities for cutting through the fence line.

The design incorporates vertical steel clamp bars which not only secure the panels to the posts but also bond the mesh layers together. This creates a highly rigid structure that increases resistance to attack using conventional hand and portable power tools.

Key benefits of Securi-Mesh^® Plus B3 include:

LPCB LPS 1175 B3 (SR2) certification.

Double-layer 358 mesh construction.

Anti-climb characteristics due to small apertures.

Increased resistance to cutting and tampering.

Compatibility with perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDS).

Matching security rated gates.

Secured by Design preferred specification.

Long-term durability with a 25 year service life guarantee.

For data centres, Securi-Mesh^® Plus creates a visually secure perimeter while maintaining excellent visibility. This is particularly important because clear sightlines enhance CCTV performance and improve perimeter monitoring by security teams.

Beyond SR2: When Higher Levels of Protection Are Needed

While SR2 protection will satisfy many data centre perimeter requirements, some locations may need enhanced resistance levels in specific areas.

Sites adjacent to public roads, residential developments, or areas with elevated threat profiles may benefit from SR3 rated security fencing, particularly where privacy and acoustic performance are also required. Under LPS 1175 Issue 8, SR3 corresponds to a C5 security classification and provides resistance against more determined attacks using a broader range of tools, including battery-powered equipment.

One solution that has become increasingly popular in these environments is Jakoustic^® Class 3.

Jakoustic^® Class 3: Combining Acoustic Performance and SR3 Security

Data centres often generate significant operational noise from generators, cooling equipment, and mechanical plant. Managing this noise can be a key planning and environmental requirement.

Jakoustic^® Class 3 addresses both security and acoustic challenges in a single system. It is the only reflective acoustic barrier certified to LPS 1175 C5 (SR3) and delivers resistance against determined forced entry attempts while also providing noise reduction performance of up to 28dB.

Its flat faced design eliminates hand and footholds, making climbing extremely difficult. The barrier's construction incorporates multiple layers and security features that provide significantly greater resistance to cutting and penetration than conventional timber fencing.

Additional benefits include:

LPCB certified C5 (SR3) protection.

Anti-climb flat face design.

Up to 28dB noise reduction.

Enhanced visual screening and privacy.

Compatibility with security toppings.

25 year guarantee.

The added privacy benefits can also help support physical mitigation measures by reducing visibility into the site and making reconnaissance activities more difficult for potential intruders.

The Ideal Data Centre Perimeter Strategy

For many modern facilities, the most effective approach is not relying on a single fencing solution across the entire boundary.

A layered perimeter design can offer the best balance of security, visibility, acoustic control, and cost efficiency. In many cases, Securi-Mesh^® Plus B3 (SR2) can be deployed across the majority of the site perimeter as it was at KAO Data Centre, delivering independently tested high security perimeter fencing with excellent visibility and anti-climb performance.

Meanwhile, Jakoustic^® Class 3 (SR3/C5) can be used in areas where higher threat resistance, acoustic attenuation, or visual screening is required, such as:

Generator compounds.

Plant and cooling infrastructure.

Boundaries adjacent to residential developments.

Public-facing sections of the perimeter.

Sensitive operational zones.

This combination creates a comprehensive perimeter security strategy that addresses both operational and environmental requirements while maintaining a consistent approach to certified security.

As the importance of data centres continues to grow, the need for robust perimeter protection has never been greater. SR2 and SR3 high security fencing provides an independently tested level of resistance that helps deter, delay, and defend against intrusion attempts, making it an ideal choice for critical infrastructure environments.

Securi-Mesh^® Plus B3 (SR2) offers a proven solution for securing data centre perimeters, combining anti-climb mesh technology, enhanced resistance to attack, and LPCB certification in a highly effective fence system. For locations where increased protection, privacy, and noise reduction are required, Jakoustic^® Class 3 SR3 (C5) provides an excellent complementary solution.

Together, these systems create a resilient, layered high security perimeter fencing strategy that helps data centre operators protect assets, strengthen site security, and future-proof their facilities against evolving threats.

Related content:

Acoustic barriers for data centres

Layered data centre security models