Perimeter and fence protection and fencing types

Is the school boundary fencing adequate and in good condition?

Fencing heights may vary Ofsted recommend effective height for boundaries is generally 1.8 metres or higher. The boundary of the school should be clearly defined and consistent around the entire perimeter where possible.  Fencing and gates should be kept in good condition to be effective. Please Note that in some cases where fencing abuts a highway any replacement fencing over 1 metre, and fencing over 2 metres anywhere else, may require planning permission.  (Advice is through your local District Council planning office). Ensure any fencing or gates have appropriate signage too to be clear on access etc. Gates should always be locked when the school is not in use. Closing gates (both pedestrian and vehicle) during the school day can also provide a deterrent to casual access.

Electronic powered gates need to have sensors to detect the presence of a person or obstacle at either side of the gate. Electric or automatic gates are designed to failsafe if someone / something gets in the way. The gate must effectively stop and reverse in direction when an object / person are detected. Gate-Guide-CURRENT.pdf Under the PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) regulations, it is a legal requirement to ensure that work equipment is adequately maintained. A competent engineer who holds a Gate Safe Aware ECS Card can carry out an inspection on an annual basis. For a list of approved companies visit www.gate-safe.org in the interim a School must ensure that termly inspections include inspection/risk assessment of gates/barriers.

Manual operated gates also require documented inspection and maintenance to ensure they are in good working condition.

When considering types of fencing, cost will always be a major factor. However, installing the cheapest type of fencing such as chain link can be a false economy as it has a limited life and can easily be vandalised. Fencing which has horizontal runners should be avoided as they are easily climbed.

If finances permit, steel palisade or welded fencing will be more long lasting with low maintenance and will be better value in the longer term. The frontage of the school will give visitors their first impression of the school and fencing should not be austere or too severe in appearance. Schools may still protect their front boundary by installing more ornate or decorative fencing but still at an appropriate height.  Fencing around hazards such as ponds, fuel tanks or electricity sub stations should be robust and at an appropriate height to deter unauthorised access. For small ponds, fencing of about 1.5 metres is considered appropriate but higher if the water areas are much larger. For nursery play areas it is recommended that fencing be of about 1.5 metres in height not only to stop children climbing out but to stop children being lifted over from the outside.

Fencing of an appropriate height between buildings can be effective in guiding persons around a site but at the same time stopping unauthorised access to areas where children are. Similarly secure, fencing around refuse areas will reduce the opportunities for arson.

Well sited appropriate fencing can improve the overall security of a school site. However, a sensible balance should be struck to not use fencing of a type or height that gives a negative impression that the school is unsafe. Careful choices need to be made therefore to ensure fencing and gates are effective but do not create an ‘institutional’ feel for the school.