Investing in Security at Palletline

Maintaining optimum levels of safety and security in operation for both people and freight is the driving force behind continued investment in CCTV and security systems at Palletline's new central hub in Solihull.

Alongside significant expenditure on fast-developing technology, Palletline has now invested upwards of £½M in systems designed to safeguard freight, staff and equipment, ensuring secure handling of customers' goods throughout the transhipment process.

Prior to the move last October into the new state of the art distribution hub, Palletline entered into consultation with Servoca Secure Solutions to design a bespoke security system. This brief focused not only on site monitoring but also on the incorporation of high quality Internet Protocol (IP) cameras in the quality control and scanning stations, providing a visual audit trail of each pallet entering and leaving the hub.

Detailed risk analyses were undertaken in each operational area to understand the threat of loss, damage or incident to pallets, vehicles and personnel at each different stage of the flow.

Palletline now operates a continuous surveillance loop, with advanced scanning technology identifying the condition of each and every pallet. This allows fast and accurate resolution of any disputes arising concerning packaging condition and subsequent loss or damage.

Advanced pallet tracking capabilities have also eliminated the possibility of 'lost' pallets within the system, which is already leading to reduced insurance premiums for Palletline member companies and their customers, with clear claims evidence at every stage of the process.

Safety and security of people and equipment is also a key consideration, with the site perimeter monitored by a further ring of cameras working in conjunction with electronic sensors and an audible warning system.

The security systems include cameras installed in and around the main hub building, which are providing evidence quality images for security, health and safety and operational requirements.

"System reliability is no longer enough – we needed to invest to ensure our member companies and their customers could have total confidence in our ability to manage, keep track of and secure their goods in transit," stated Mark Pulford, Operations Director for Palletline. "We can now trace every pallet photographically through the network, determining liability quickly and effectively in the unlikely event of a claim. In addition, advanced perimeter security systems ensure total security for people and freight."