Norbain SD, the UK’s largest distributor of electronic security solutions has chosen to install Bewator’s Granta access security system at its new distribution centre in Ashton Moss, Greater Manchester.

The new 50,000 square foot facility increases Norbain’s stockholding capacity by more than 100%, keeping Norbain at the forefront of security distribution in Europe.  

Bewator’s Granta system was chosen as the new security solution due to its extensive functionality.   Granta is a modular security management system enabling integration of access control, CCTV and intruder alarms into one easy-to-manage package. The system provides secure access control for multiple site applications, is simple to use and highly controllable.   

Bewator’s Cotag hands free proximity readers and software have also been installed at the new site. They are both reliable and easy to use and integrate with the Granta system for a complete access security solution. Norbain already uses the Cotag system in all of its regional offices and is due to introduce the technology at its head office in Reading.

The Norbain site incorporates advanced distribution technology, such as high level fork lift trucks with fitted camera systems, picking trucks incorporating small fixed stepladders to help pickers collect items swiftly and safely, and two automated shrink wrap machines to speed up the process of wrapping goods for storage and dispatch.

Due to both the size and scope of the facility, it meant the site required a sophisticated security solution that can control vast volumes of product being shifted on a daily basis.

The main challenge for Norbain is to maintain and control security in a multi-user environment, while allowing operations to run smoothly and quickly, as the facility needs to provide a dynamic working environment as well as a safe place to store goods.

As the new distribution centre has 25 access points and more than 30 staff using the system on a daily basis it was imperative that the security system was highly flexible and able to manage varying levels of access. For example, at any given time, senior management, supervisory team, night shift, visitors, contractors, and temporary staff require different levels of access.

Bewator access security specialist and Norbain account handler, Tony Berry said:  

“We already have a close partnership with Norbain and are delighted they have chosen our security systems for the new distribution centre. Norbain using Bewator’s products at its new site is a testament to the robust and effective access security network the Granta system and Cotag readers provide.”

Norbain Operations Manager, Alan Heath said: “The new distribution centre has meant we have been able to increase our stockholding and speed up our distribution to customers, keeping us at the forefront of security distribution in Europe.

“We also place our own security at the top of the agenda, which is why we have chosen to use Bewator systems to manage the security of the new site,” Mr Heath said.

“The site requires central, integrated control of all the access points, as well as a system that is reliable and easy to use. Bewator’s Granta entry system is proven to be robust, reliable and flexible and we are confident that this system is the ideal security solution for the new site’s needs.”