Key Highlights

• The National Gallery relies on comprehensive fire and security systems to safeguard its collection
• ADT is responsible for maintaining the gallery’s range of advanced electronic security equipment
• A dedicated ADT technician helps ensure that systems remain operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Situation

The National Gallery was established in 1824 for the benefit of all. Today, the gallery, which houses one of the greatest collections of Western European paintings in the world, continues to pursue a vigorous and socially inclusive outreach programme and caters to the needs of all groups in society. One of its fundamental aims is to ensure the pictures in the nation's collection remain safe for present and future generations to enjoy.
 
Keeping the gallery’s collection secure and yet making it accessible to the wider public presents a unique set of security challenges. A comprehensive network of video surveillance cameras and sophisticated access control and fire management systems all form part of the strategy. Ensuring that the fire and security solutions are operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week is of paramount importance to the safety of the collection.

Solution

ADT is a trusted security partner of the gallery and has been providing maintenance services since 1999. With numerous cameras, fire detectors, break glass units, security alarm devices and card-readers to control access to sensitive areas, the maintenance of the security and fire management system is not a simple affair. A dedicated ADT technician is on-site five days a week and on a call-out basis at the weekend. He provides essential support and is vital to the ongoing delivery of security services. A rigorous programme of regular inspections and routine maintenance is strictly adhered to. Detailed maintenance reports are produced, showing the dates, times and results of tests, thus providing invaluable management information. Action is immediately taken to address problem areas and free fitting of replacement parts for normal wear and tear is included in the comprehensive service plan provided by ADT.

Results

Ensuring appropriate service and maintenance of the fire and security systems at the National Gallery has proved as important as installing them in the first place. As well as making sure that the collection, premises, visitors and staff remain protected, regular inspections and routine maintenance helps to safeguard the investment the National Gallery made in their fire and security equipment. Without effective maintenance even the best equipment will deteriorate and the security of the gallery could be put at risk. Without rapid response, even the smallest fault can cause a major problem. Fast service and regular maintenance ensures that vital fire and security systems will work when they are needed, minimising the incidence and duration of down times, preserving high levels of performance and prolonging equipment life.