Transforming URM’s Network for Safety and Efficiency2 min read

Transforming URM’s Network for Safety and Efficiency

URM Group UK

ISDM played a pivotal role in enhancing URM’s network infrastructure and site connectivity to support safety monitoring initiatives. URM UK Ltd, a prominent waste glass purchaser and recycler established over 90 years ago, operates cutting-edge cullet treatment plants in Knottingley, Doncaster, South Kirkby, and Tilbury.

Why ISDM

“URM have been impressed with the way ISDM have gone above and beyond to deliver the solution in a challenging work environment. The solution allows URM to realise the operation stability of the attached devices while supporting the organisation’s wider digitisation projects. It has been a pleasure to work with the team from ISDM, and I look forward to working again in the future.” Gareth Rooney – IT Director

The Challenge

The URM group possessed diverse CCTV systems across their four sites, which were ageing and failing to deliver the high-quality coverage necessary for ensuring the safety of workers and effective monitoring of the premises. New network-connected IP CCTV was required for all sites. However, the existing network infrastructure could not support this technology.

In addition, the existing wireless on-site covered only some areas of the sites, creating inefficiency for workers.

Finally, the WAN connectivity was based on traditional VPN technology that was proving unreliable & difficult to manage.

The Solution

ISDM was enlisted by URM’s IT director, Gareth Rooney, to address the connectivity requirements for the CCTV system. It quickly became apparent that the existing network had grown over time and there was very little documentation available, prompting ISDM to conduct detailed site surveys and wireless site surveys using Ekahau. Leveraging Meraki technology, ISDM designed a unified wired and wireless network, integrating the CCTV cameras and other site services into one secure network.

To address inefficiencies in on-site wireless coverage and unreliable traditional VPN technology for WAN connectivity, ISDM implemented Meraki SD-WAN technology, streamlining and stabilising site interconnections. During the work, it was also noted that some URM applications were being moved into the cloud; therefore, a Meraki virtual MX was included in the design to maintain consistent security policies between the physical sites and the cloud applications.

The real benefit of this solution being deployed with Meraki technology is that all network systems across all sites are now managed in one single dashboard.