Customer Overview
RTI Surgical operates a biohazard facility that houses hazardous chemical compounds in a large service yard. As part of their operations, they handle sensitive materials and require strict access control measures. A recent U.S. Security Assessment Audit highlighted vulnerabilities in their perimeter security, prompting the need for an advanced access control solution.
Challenges & Security Concerns
Before implementing FDC’s solution, RTI Surgical faced significant challenges in securing its service yard while maintaining efficient operations:
Large Area with Multiple Access Points: The facility required security measures that could cover a wide perimeter with various vehicle and pedestrian entry points.
Compliance with Government Security Standards: Meeting security audit requirements was critical to maintaining operations.
Balancing Security with Accessibility: The facility needed controlled access that allowed authorized personnel and supply deliveries to move efficiently without hindrance.
Aesthetics vs. Functionality: They wanted to implement high-security measures without giving the facility the appearance of a high-security prison.
Why RTI Surgical Chose FDC
RTI Surgical explored multiple security solutions and selected FDC based on recommendations from other U.S. Department of Defense contractors in the Alachua County area. The deciding factors included:
Customizable Solutions for Different Access Points: FDC provided tailored security solutions for both pedestrian and vehicle access points.
Space-Conscious Gate Operators: The swing gate operators were designed to fit within the constraints of limited space and hazardous material storage zones.
Ornamental Security Fabrication: Instead of the standard chain-link fence with barbed wire, FDC designed aesthetically pleasing yet high-security access control points that blended with the existing architecture.
Future Expansion Capabilities: The system was designed to allow future enhancements, ensuring long-term security adaptability.
Implementation Process & Challenges
FDC worked closely with RTI Surgical’s facility managers to implement a customized security solution that met their operational and compliance needs.
Custom Gate Fabrication: Each pedestrian gate was designed to match the existing security wall height and sidewalk configurations.
Field Adjustments for On-Site Integration: Due to variations in building and wall construction, adjustments were made during installation to ensure a seamless fit.
Collaborative Installation Process: Every access point was reviewed with the site facility manager to ensure proper placement, accessibility, and function.
Results & Security Enhancements
Following the installation of FDC’s security solutions, RTI Surgical achieved immediate and measurable improvements:
Successful Compliance: The facility successfully passed the U.S. Government Security Assessment Audit.
Enhanced Access Control: The access control system was activated immediately, allowing efficient vehicle and pedestrian flow while restricting unauthorized entry.
Increased Functionality: The flexibility of SecuraSwing Closers on pedestrian gates enabled the facility to expand card reader access to three gates instead of the originally planned two.
ADA Accessibility Upgrades: After implementation, RTI Surgical requested an ADA operator for one pedestrian gate, improving ease of use for deliveries without requiring reconfiguration of the existing gate.
Impact on Operations
By implementing FDC’s security solution, RTI Surgical successfully enhanced perimeter security without disrupting business operations.
Key outcomes included:
Uninterrupted Facility Operations: Security upgrades did not impact the efficiency of authorized personnel or supply deliveries.
Future-Proof Security: The flexible design allowed for easy upgrades, ensuring that the facility can adapt to evolving security requirements.
Customer Satisfaction: RTI Surgical appreciated the balance of security, accessibility, and aesthetics.
Customer Feedback
RTI Surgical highlighted three key advantages of working with FDC:
Flexibility in Design & Function: The solution was tailored to both immediate and future security needs.
Seamless Integration with Operations: The security enhancements did not hinder daily activities.
Customization for Compliance & Aesthetics: FDC delivered high security without creating an industrial, prison-like environment.
When asked if they would recommend FDC to other businesses, RTI Surgical responded with a resounding yes, advising other facilities to trust FDC’s ability to design and implement security solutions that balance aesthetics and functionality.
Final Recommendations & Best Practices
To ensure smooth post-installation operations, FDC advised RTI Surgical to:
Store manuals and keys with the designated site contact.
Maintain a secure yet accessible backup of critical security system components.
Consider future enhancements, such as additional access control points or automation upgrades, to continuously strengthen facility security.
FDC’s tailored security solution provided RTI Surgical with a compliant, efficient, and future-proof system that met strict security assessment requirements. By combining custom fabrication with intelligent access control, FDC delivered a solution that not only enhanced security but also maintained operational efficiency and facility aesthetics.
