Physical Data Centre Security Standards: What You Should Know

According to recent news, Amazon has invested heavily in new data centres across the UK and there is now a significant focus on how data centres such as these will secure critical data.

Data centres can be a prime target for cyber and physical security threats. The need for protection of these facilities is now a top priority for many businesses.

Data centre security, and in particular cyber security, is often heavily invested in. However, one element that is frequently overlooked is the physical protection of the sites. This can be easily and quickly rectified with physical access control through the use of security turnstiles.

Why Data Centres Need Physical Security

All data centres hold highly sensitive information for a range of industries including healthcare, financial, legal, and government bodies. While cybersecurity is paramount, securing the physical site is equally as crucial.

Data centre security is vital to prevent unauthorised access. Unauthorised access can result in significant and costly data breaches, damage to equipment, and potential service outages.

Physical security such as turnstiles combined with access control systems can play a pivotal role in controlling, monitoring, and only permitting access to authorised personnel.

The Role of Turnstiles in Data Centre Security

Turnstiles are a key element in data centre security and can be tailored to different environments and needs as follows:

Controlled Access to Secure Zones

In many data centres, security will be needed upon initial entry, but it can also be required to prevent access to certain areas within the site which may require further restrictions. Turnstiles allow for strict access control only permitted access to individuals with the right credentials to specific areas.

At UKT, we have a range of biometric and card-operated turnstiles to provide a secure and seamless access solution. Our turnstiles can also be integrated with existing or new security systems.

Prevention of Tailgating

One risk in data centre security is ‘tailgating’ or ‘piggybacking’ through restricted areas. This is where an unauthorised person gains access by following closely behind another user or being allowed entry by a permitted user knowing the potential security breach.

High-security turnstiles incorporate anti-tailgating features to prevent this kind of breach ensuring that only one person at a time can be granted access and only following evidencing their permissions.

Integration with Monitoring Systems

Data centre security often includes 24/7 monitoring by security personnel combined with CCTV, and on occasion sensors. At UKT, our turnstiles can be seamlessly integrated into existing monitoring systems such as these.

Integrated access control systems also allow real-time monitoring allowing security personnel and/or data logs to keep track of who enters and exits. This can also be useful in the event of emergency situations such as fire etc. It is also crucial for maintaining detailed audits ensuring compliance for specific industries.

Custom Solutions for High-Security Environments

Data centre security will vary from centre to centre depending on their size, location, and the type of data they are holding.

At UKT, we offer bespoke turnstile solutions that can be tailored to meet the needs and specific security requirements of any industry.

We can provide full-height turnstiles for maximum security, speed gates for high-traffic areas, and additional access control features for restricted areas.

Data Centre Security with UK Turnstiles

As data centres continue to expand in the UK, the growing demand for physical security will continue to grow.

We offer a range of turnstiles that can be integrated with existing security systems. Our products can be quickly designed, manufactured, and installed including the latest state-of-the-art access control systems to ensure the safety and security of data centres.

Contact our team today to find out more about our services.