FAQ's

(Frequently Asked Questions)

How does the TENCOR System compare with: modular construction?   metal panel systems?  reinforced concrete construction?  conventional masonry construction?
At TENCOR, we build security into every panel, as opposed to the external structure, allowing complete flexibility in design for new or retrofit construction. Our panels are also stronger and less expensive. Specific differences are as follows:
Modular construction builds cell units only, whereas TENCOR can accommodate dayrooms, dorms, administration areas, etc.
Metal panel systems rust, are noisy and prone to vandalism, (scratches, dents) adding to cleaning and maintenance costs. TENCOR's  6,000 psi concrete panels are impervious to vandalism, do not rust, and have less noise transfer cell-to-cell.
Reinforced concrete construction is more expensive to build and operate, and is also not as strong. TENCOR's super-max panel has a penetration time of over 30 minutes. A  6" concrete wall (with welded rebar @ 8" on center) lasts only 8 minutes. 
Masonry construction has a penetration of only 1-3 minutes.

What is the dollar value offered by the TENCOR System?
The TENCOR System is not only more cost effective when compared to other construction methods (offering up to 30% savings or more), it also provides far greater overall security in its panels and accessories.

How are TENCOR panels assembled? Can inmate labor be utilized? Can they be disassembled?  Unskilled inmate labor can be used to assemble our panels using steel connectors and stainless-steel floor channels. A forklift (or a hydraulic lift designed by TENCOR) is used to raise and lock them into position. The joints are then caulked with an epoxy stronger than steel. Door frames are welded to the steel core. A crew of 7 men can assemble 55 panels per day (1 cell is 10-15 panels). For a major renovation, the panels can be disassembled, however, the process of removing the epoxy and cutting the door welds could require that some panels be replaced.

How are TENCOR's accessories installed to prevent inmate tampering? Can metal accessories be incorporated?
Our accessories are securely welded to our panels' steel core. The joints are caulked with an epoxy stronger than steel. This eliminates their removal and use as weapons, the kind of tampering which frequently occurs when attachment is to concrete. Metal accessories (shelves, desks, beds) can be used or we can provide accessories made from our concrete panels.

How can the TENCOR System be used in both new construction and renovation?  TENCOR's double envelope system of construction is based upon the ability to erect a separate security envelope within a weather envelope. TENCOR panels form the secure containment space independent of the weather envelope, which is provided by a new or existing inexpensive factory or warehouse-type building.

How will TENCOR interface with project architects and engineers?  We will work together during the design phase to develop the custom solutions necessary to meet the specifications of your facility. We supply shop drawings, installation sequences and schedules to facilitate the construction process.

Why does TENCOR place such high emphasis on security?
Security within walls is not really tested until there is a disturbance and there is no guarantee that one will not occur within the lifetime of a facility. At that time, if the walls do not contain the inmates, the facility will be overrun, resulting in extensive injury and damage as well as poor public relations. TENCOR's super-max panel has a penetration rating over 30 minutes, yet costs less to build than 6" reinforced concrete (with welded rebar @ 8" on center) which has a penetration rating of only 8 minutes. Greater peace of mind does not have to cost more, and the results are priceless!

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For technical information, please contact:

For general inquiries, please contact exclusive agents:

TENCOR Systems Inc.
252 Hamilton Crescent
Dorchester, Ontario
N0L 1G1

Phone: 1-800-236-5695
Fax: 780-417-7798
E-mail:
tcs@tencorsystems.com

SafetyConcepts Inc.
15, 2016 Sherwood Drive
Sherwood Park, Alberta
T8A 3X3

Phone: 1-800-236-5695
Fax: 780-417-7798
E-mail: svent@safetyconcepts.com
Website:
www.safetyconcepts.com

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