The right fence keeps your oil field secure. If you choose the wrong type, you will spend money on fencing that fails to keep intruders and wildlife out. The best fence depends on the location of your oil field and its natural elements, which is why it is best to discuss your options with a fence contractor in Carlsbad, NM first. Here are the types of fences available for oil fields, and their advantages:
- Barbed wire: This is a reliable standby that is cost-effective and works well. Choose three, four or five strand barbed wire depending on how much intimidation you require. Barbed wire fences are easy to customize, and once completed, you will have a secure fence without paying a lot of money. Disadvantages of barbed wire include rust, which eventually requires its replacement. Also, just as barbed wire can keep intruders out, it also produces a dangerous condition for your workers. You may want to mark it clearly so fatigued workers are less likely to encounter it and require stitches.
- Chain link: If you consider barbed wire too risky, chain link makes a good alternative. A strong chain link fence with a tight weave also keeps out intruders, whether they are human or animal. It is easy to customize, and you can enhance security by placing barbed wire on top, where it will discourage climbers without risking injury to workers. When choosing chain link, do not go for the lowest priced material. You want high quality because intruders can get past chain link by cutting it. However, it resists rust and is one of your more attractive options if your oil field attracts constant (authorized) visitors.
- Game fences: Oil fields frequently coexist with wildlife, but that does not mean you need them visiting! Besides being a nuisance, animals may also put themselves in danger in your oil field, and no one enjoys cleaning up remains. A game fence is built high to prevent deer from leaping over it, and deep to restrain hogs, dogs and burrowing animals. If your oil field is out in the wild, a game fence is likely your best option.
- Interior fencing: It is a given that you require a large fence around the exterior of your oil field. Inside, you maintain frack ponds, SWD facilities, drill pits, tank and pump stations and fresh water access. Building fences around these essential areas enhances security just in case someone gets inside the perimeter of your property. There is also a safety consideration, as exposed pumps and pipes create tripping hazards that can lead to workers’ compensation claims. Find your vulnerable areas and consider using chain link to protect them.
- Electronic security: Once you choose your fence, you still need gates to allow access. However, you do not want just anyone entering—you must control that access. A good way to do this is with electronic gates. Visitors and employees must enter with a code or by swiping a card. If you are isolated, many of these systems are solar powered so you do not have to worry about providing power.
Guadalupe Mountain Fencing LLC is a fence contractor in Carlsbad, NM. Call us today if you require assistance building a fence around your oil field.