The threat to railroads from cable theft

Protecting critical rail infrastructure is now more important than ever. Cable theft on railroad lines has become a serious problem in recent years, significantly affecting both safety and rail operations. The consequences are far-reaching: delays, train cancellations and high financial losses. In Germany in particular, the theft of copper cables poses a growing risk, as railroad lines are often inadequately secured and therefore an easy target for criminals.

The consequences of cable theft are dramatic. In addition to the direct costs of replacing stolen materials, there are also high follow-up costs due to service interruptions and costly repair work. The theft also impairs the safety of rail traffic, as important signaling systems and power supplies are disrupted. All these problems place a considerable burden on ongoing operations.

Another aspect is the danger to passenger traffic. Unsecured railroad lines are also used for other illegal activities. These include vandalism or trespassing on tracks by unauthorized persons, which entails considerable risks for passengers and employees.

The need to protect railroad lines as part of the critical infrastructure is becoming ever clearer as a result of increasing incidents. Innovative security solutions such as high-security fencing offer the best results here.

Protecting critical rail infrastructure: the solution with the Securifor high-security fencing system

The Securifor high security fencing system offers an extremely effective solution for securing railroad lines and protecting critical rail infrastructure. It is specially designed and has versatile security functions. This makes the Securifor fence ideal for preventing unauthorized access and making the theft of cables and other materials significantly more difficult. It therefore makes a significant contribution to the protection of critical railroad infrastructure.

Main features of the Securifor system

• Extremely small mesh size: 76.20 x 12.70 mm - This structure virtually prevents the fence from being cut or climbed.

• Wire thickness of 4 mm: The robust wire thickness ensures stability and durability.

• High penetration values: The Fence offers 40 times greater resistance to penetration than conventional Fence systems.

• Optimum camera view: Despite the small mesh size, the view for surveillance cameras remains optimal.

• Very easy to install: The system is easy to install and still offers maximum stability.

Security aspects of the Securifor system

1. Penetration resistance: The small mesh size and strong wire construction offer maximum resistance to cutting and breaking through.

2. Difficult to overcome: Climbing the fence is made considerably more difficult by the special design.

3. Optimized for camera surveillance: The excellent camera view ensures efficient visual control and monitoring.

4. Can be combined with safety functions: The system can be easily connected to alarm and detection systems. Attempted tampering is detected and reported immediately.

Further areas of application for the Securifor system

In addition to railroad lines, Securifor fencing is ideal for other critical infrastructures such as:

• Airports: Protection of runways, hangars and airfields against unauthorized access.

• Ports: Securing docks, warehouses and ship entrances against vandalism and theft.

• Electricity and water utilities: Protection of sensitive systems against unauthorized access.

• Military facilities: Effective protection for barracks and arsenals.

• Industrial plants: Securing production facilities, warehouses and supply structures.

Practical example: Protecting critical infrastructure on the railroads

In several European countries, the Securifor-system has been successfully used to secure railroad lines. An example from France shows that the number of thefts from copper lines fell to zero after the fence was installed. The protection against unauthorized access has led to considerable savings, as repair costs and operational interruptions have been reduced.

The system was also introduced on several critical railroad sections in Germany. At previously affected locations, where cable theft was a regular occurrence, incidents were reduced by 95 %. This clearly shows that physical protection in combination with alarm and monitoring systems delivers optimum results.

Technical details of the Securifor system

• Mesh mat width: 2518.60 mm

• Available heights: From 2010.60 mm up to 6011.10 mm

• Coating: Zincalu (95 % zinc, 5 % aluminum) for corrosion resistance

• Optional: Powder coatings with polyester for maximum durability

Post systems for maximum safety

• Rectangular post: With secure fixing clamps.

• Bekasecure post system: Stable and tamper-proof for the highest demands.

Advantages of the Securifor system: protection of critical rail infrastructure

The railroad lines are part of the critical infrastructure and must be effectively protected against theft and vandalism. The Securifor fencing system offers the following advantages:

1. Effective protection against cable theft: The robust construction prevents cutting or climbing over.

2. Optimum monitoring: The mesh structure offers excellent visibility for cameras.

3. Long service life: High-quality coating ensures robustness.

4. Integration of security systems: Alarm and detection systems can be easily integrated.

5. Ease of installation: The system is easy to install.

6. Cost savings: Reduction in theft and repairs.

7. Sustainability: Durable materials protect the environment.

8. Flexibility: Various heights and configurations are available.