Securing the UK’s Data Centres: How Security Direct Protects the Future of AI Infrastructure

As the UK races to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), investment in data centres has surged. In 2025 and 2026, billions are being channelled into next-generation computing hubs — from hyperscale AI facilities in London and Manchester to new regional clusters across the North. With data powering every aspect of the AI revolution, physical security has never been more critical.

At Security Direct, we help leading data-centre operators, contractors, and developers protect their infrastructure from physical threats, combining LPS-certified shutters, fire-rated shutters, steel doors, and security grilles with smart integration into modern access control, CCTV, and alarm systems.

The UK’s AI and Data Centre Boom

The UK government and private sector are investing heavily in digital infrastructure:

• The £500 million UK AI Research Investment Fund (2025–2026) supports new super-computing and cloud-AI facilities.
• Major hyperscale operators (AWS, Google, Microsoft, and Equinix) are expanding data-centre capacity to meet AI processing demand.
• Regional “AI corridors” in Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow are driving dozens of new data-centre projects.

This unprecedented growth brings new risks, both physical and cyber. While cybersecurity protects digital assets, physical intrusion or fire can cripple operations instantly. Security Direct specialises in preventing these physical vulnerabilities through robust, standards-compliant solutions.

Physical Security in Data Centres: Why It Matters

Data centres store the lifeblood of AI: data. A single unauthorised entry, vandalism, or fire can cause:

• Service disruption for clients and users worldwide
• Regulatory breaches (e.g., GDPR or ISO 27001)
• Reputational damage and financial loss

Physical protection must therefore be layered, integrating perimeter, building-entry, and internal compartment security. Security Direct’s solutions deliver precisely that.

Security-Rated Roller Shutters

High-Security Protection for Server Rooms and Loading Bays

Our LPS 1175-certified security rated roller shutters are ideal for protecting vehicle loading bays, critical plant rooms, and server-hall access points. Available up to SR5 rating, they resist sophisticated forced-entry attempts, including power tools and cutting attacks.

Features and Benefits:

• Tested to Loss Prevention Standard (LPS 1175)
• Motorised or manual operation with backup systems
• Integration with access-control, alarm triggers, and CCTV
• Available in insulated or perforated profiles for ventilation
• Custom-coloured to match facility branding or zoning

Case Study:
A Tier III data centre in the Midlands required secure vehicle entry points. Security Direct installed SR4-rated roller shutters with GFA motors and integrated proximity sensors. The shutters link to the site’s building management system (BMS), automatically locking when alarms trigger, preventing unauthorised bay access.

Fire Shutters for Compartmentation and Compliance

Containing Fire Risks in Mission-Critical Areas

Fire safety is a top priority in data-centre design. Our fire shutters are tested to BS EN 16034 and BS 8524, offering 30–240 minute fire resistance. Installed in corridors, battery rooms, and loading areas, they automatically close on signal from fire-alarm systems to prevent the spread of smoke and heat.

Benefits:

• Battery-backed operation ensures function during power loss
• Compact headbox design suits restricted ceiling spaces
• Compliant with building and insurance standards

Case Study:
For a London AI-training facility, Security Direct installed 120-minute fire shutters with panel-mounted fire control systems. These units integrate directly with the facility’s addressable alarm network, providing instant automatic deployment when sensors detect heat or smoke.

Steel Security Doors

Protecting Access Points and Personnel Entrances

Our steel doors are a mainstay of data-centre protection, engineered for both security and fire performance. Options include PAS 24, LPS 1175, and FD240-rated models for different zones of risk.

Applications:

• Staff entry and exit doors
• Emergency egress routes (DDA-compliant)
• Generator and plant-room access

Features:

• Multi-point locking and anti-tamper hinges
• Acoustic and thermal options for equipment rooms
• Integration with card readers, magnetic locks, and alarms

Case Study:
A Manchester data-centre operator replaced ageing timber doors with SR3-rated steel doors fitted with panic hardware and smart access controls. These now integrate seamlessly with the site’s CCTV analytics, automatically logging door events in the central monitoring system.

Security Grilles and Internal Barriers

Flexible Protection for Internal Zones

For secondary protection within the facility, such as separating public reception areas from secure corridors, our retractable security grilles offer strength and visibility.

Advantages:

• Quick to deploy and fold away
• Available in fixed or removable formats
• Powder-coated for durability and aesthetics

Case Study:
A co-location provider in Leeds installed internal steel window bars between the loading dock and customer cage areas. This allowed airflow and visibility while maintaining controlled separation. Ideal for 24/7 operational sites with frequent deliveries.

Integrating Physical and Electronic Security

Modern data centres depend on interconnected systems. Security Direct’s products are designed to interface seamlessly with:

• CCTV systems: Triggered shutter closure upon motion detection or alarm activation
• Access-control systems: Doors and shutters tied to badge or biometric authorisation
• Alarm networks and BMS: Centralised monitoring for status and fault reporting

By combining physical barriers with real-time monitoring, facility managers gain layered, intelligent protection that meets today’s insurance and compliance expectations.

Why Choose Security Direct

• Over 25 years of experience in commercial and industrial security
• UK-manufactured, tested, and certified products
• Proven installations across Tier III and Tier IV data centres
• End-to-end service: design, supply, installation, and maintenance
• Read our reviews on TrustPilot and Feefo

Whether you’re developing a new hyperscale site or upgrading existing infrastructure, Security Direct delivers trusted, standards-compliant protection for the UK’s AI future.

Summary

The rapid expansion of AI in the UK demands secure, resilient data-centre environments. From LPS-rated shutters and fire-safe compartmentation to integrated steel-door and grille systems, Security Direct provides the comprehensive protection your facility requires.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Data Centre Security

1. Why is physical security so important for data centres?

Physical security protects the servers and infrastructure that store and process critical data. Even with robust cybersecurity, unauthorised physical access can lead to theft, sabotage, or service disruption. Effective security includes barriers such as roller shutters, steel doors, access control, and CCTV integration to deter and delay intruders.

2. What are the main physical threats to a data centre?

Data centres face several physical risks, including:

• Unauthorised entry or vandalism
• Terrorism or targeted attacks
• Fire and smoke damage
• Power or environmental hazards
• Vehicle ramming or forced-entry attempts
  Security Direct mitigates these risks with tested, certified solutions that meet standards like LPS 1175, PAS 24, and BS EN 16034.

3. Which Security Direct products are suitable for data centres?

Security Direct provides a full range of physical protection solutions, including:

• Security-rated roller shutters for vehicle bays and sensitive areas
• Fire shutters to contain fire and smoke spread
• Steel security doors for staff and plant access
• Collapsible security grilles for internal zoning
  All can integrate with alarm systems, CCTV, and building management systems.

4. How do fire shutters protect a data centre?

Fire shutters automatically close when triggered by the fire alarm, sealing off rooms and corridors to contain flames and smoke. They are tested to BS EN 16034 and BS 8524, providing up to four hours of fire resistance, a vital safeguard for mission-critical operations and insurance compliance.

5. Are Security Direct products compliant with UK standards?

Yes. Our products are independently tested and certified to key UK and European standards, including:

• LPS 1175 (Loss Prevention Standard) for forced-entry resistance
• PAS 24 for enhanced door security
• BS EN 16034 / BS 8524 for fire performance
• UKCA and CE markings for manufacturing compliance

These certifications ensure data-centre operators meet ISO 27001 and insurance risk requirements.

6. Can Security Direct systems integrate with access control or CCTV?

Absolutely. Our shutters and doors can be linked with:

• Card readers or biometric systems for controlled access
• CCTV analytics to trigger alarms or automatic door closure
• Building Management Systems (BMS) for real-time monitoring
  This ensures a layered, intelligent security network across the facility.

7. What level of security rating do data centres typically require?

Most data centres specify products between LPS 1175 SR3 and SR5, depending on their operational tier and risk profile. SR3 and SR4 products provide robust protection against sustained, tool-based attacks, suitable for Tier III and Tier IV facilities handling sensitive or government data.

8. How often should data-centre security systems be serviced?

Security systems should be inspected and serviced at least annually, or quarterly for high-usage areas such as loading bays. Regular maintenance ensures shutters, doors, and integration systems operate correctly, meeting warranty and compliance obligations.

9. Do Security Direct offer bespoke solutions for new data-centre builds?

Yes. We work with architects, contractors, and facility managers from design stage through to installation and maintenance. Each solution is custom-engineered for the site’s layout, operational needs, and compliance requirements — ensuring optimal protection and long-term reliability.

10. How can I get a quote for securing my data centre?

You can request a free consultation or quote by contacting our expert team:
Contact Security Direct - for tailored advice and product recommendations specific to your data-centre project.