Grand Coulee Dam – Integrated Security Solutions, Inc.

Grand Coulee Dam, WA

Electronic Security System Professional Services
CLIENT

Department of Interior-Bureau of Reclamation

Project Overview

ISS provided professional services to conduct security surveys, security system maintenance of existing system and installation of new/upgraded security systems at the Grand Coulee Dam, the largest hydroelectricity generator in the United States, third largest in the world.

We provided and installed a seven-bay console and a compatible thermal image viewer for an Intrusion Detection System (IDS)/Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV). Additionally, we relocated, set up, and programmed the head-end, which involved programming the electronic Access Control System (ACS) and integrating it into the original Electronic Security System (ESS). This also involved setting up and programming the ESS, relocating the server, and replacing the ACS and associated client workstations. In addition, various upgrades to the existing ACS, IDS, and CCTV systems we made in industrial areas on the compound and for supporting facilities.

Installed Components

Over 45 Card Readers
Over 5,000 FT of Intrusion Fencing
Over 50 BMS
Over 30 Cameras
15 Request to Exit Sensors
5 Strikes
20 Controller Panels
3 Gates
Roadway Lighting

The Challenge

This site posed many challenges to overcome, from the remoteness of the location to the sprawling size, detailed planning and continual flexibility were critical for the successful deployment and completion of this work. Ensuring the equipment and the installation work practices we used could withstand the unforgiving weather and the effect that water has on this environment was a definite challenge. Also, for reasons of National Security, it was crucial to keep functionality of the system as we performed upgrades/cutover to ensure operators could seamlessly respond to risks in a timely manner as they arose – while making changes to their security posture.

Many areas of the dam were remote and had limited access, others were utilizing very antiquated, degraded equipment and were prone to flooding, as well as areas which were highly industrialized (switchyards) which posed a personnel safety concern.

Our Solution

ISS installed an ACS and associated equipment. Installation activities included providing electrical power to all required devices, ensuring infrastructure was in place such as wiring, conduit, conductors, and any connections, as well as wall or ceiling finish work to blend with the aesthetics of the site. Through our qualified partners we provided downstream roadway lighting mounted on 20’ poles and furthered their physical access control posture by installation of various pedestrian and vehicle gates.

Fiber optic and fencing repairs were made to ensure physical security posture. Perimeter and interior monitoring were done via a mix of dome, and PTZ camera solutions fully integrated with the IDS and ACS solutions. Programming, commissioning, and testing provided the site with a fully integrated ESS solution meeting UL, FIPS 201, IEEE and EIA standards.