The Art of Good Security

Protecting priceless antiquities and artefacts is a considerable responsibility. Protecting such items within a Grade I listed buildings is an even greater challenge, requiring best advice not just in terms of the technologies deployed, but also the way in which these technologies are installed.

When the internationally acclaimed Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge was looking for a partner with the right experience and technical capability to deliver state-of-the-art security, therefore, it turned to the UK’s acknowledged expert in the field – Chubb Electronic Security.

Chubb’s relationship with FitzWilliam can in fact be traced back more than 50 years, and the installation of one of the first ever electronic intruder alarms. Bringing the story right up to date, Chubb is currently working with the FitzWilliam on an extensive £1.5 million refurbishment of the Museum’s Egyptian Gallery, scheduled for completion in Spring 2006.

The man with the responsibility for procuring security is Roger Stretch: “We have a great number of very valuable items within our collection, many of which are irreplaceable, and we have a public duty therefore to see they are protected. We work very closely with Chubb in exploring what new technologies are available, and how our security can be continually enhanced.”

Not surprisingly on a site of such size and complexity , access control, intruder and CCTV technologies are all in use, and controlled via Chubb’s innovative Chubb AFx Integrated Security Management (ISM) system.

In terms of CCTV, there are approximately 50 colour cameras installed internally and externally, a mixture of fixed and Pan/Tilt/Zooms (PTZs), and some mini domes. Images are monitored and recorded locally within the Museum’s own on-site control room. Further external security is provided via a series of beam detection devices installed around the building’s perimeter. (These are useful not just in detecting would-be criminals, but also in preventing high-jinx from high-spirited students intent on climbing the Museum’s walls!)

Door access is controlled via proximity readers, with staff issued cards that allow them access depending on their function and responsibility. The access control system has a full reporting capability to see who has been where and at what times, as well as those that have tried to gain access but been denied. Additional internal security is provided by a manned guarding presence, and there are attendants in each gallery to help from a customer service perspective – and to keep a general eye on the exhibits.

The Museum is continually investing in its galleries, providing the best environment for its artefacts to be displayed. Earlier in 2005 it completed a splendid new Atrium complex and shop, and in the Summer opened a gallery dedicated to 20th Century Art. As each area is renovated and re-built, Roger Stretch takes the opportunity of similarly upgrading its security.

“All of the new display cases, for example, are alarmed, with the technology carefully and unobtrusively installed so as not to detract from the visitor experience.” Roger says. “Highly sophisticated domes featuring the very latest auto-iris lenses are used wherever possible in environments where lighting levels or the reflective nature of the glass cases can be a challenge”.

“That is where the particular skill of Chubb is most valuable, and in their experience working in other historic buildings where they have a clear understanding of aesthetics and the need to maintain the integrity of the design.”

Roger has been particularly impressed by Chubb AFx, and in what it can do not just now, but as more technologies are installed. “It makes my life easier,” he adds.

Chubb’s involvement with the FitzWilliam in providing electronic security solutions is total, including security at Hamilton Kerr, a Department of the Museum which is a world-renowned restorer of art and situated in nearby Whittlesford.

As Roger Stretch concludes: “I am very satisfied with the work that Chubb does for the Museum. They always give us best advice, the highest quality service, and keep us regularly informed and updated on what new technologies are available. It is a very successful relationship.”

Chris Smith of Chubb Security concurs: “The FitzWilliam is a prestigious Museum in a prestigious building,” he says. “Although undoubtedly a challenge, it is always very rewarding to see the work completed, and looking at new ways and new technologies to further enhance security on site.”