Overview & Objectives

Ambrey Baker was engaged directly by Heathrow to design and construct a secure and hygienic Border Inspection Post (BIP) at the airport’s cargo handling zone. his full turnkey project involved delivering a purpose-built facility with temperature-controlled loading, rapid-access inspection rooms, and full compliance with DEFRA and EU veterinary import standards.

The key objectives included:

• Creating a standalone BIP facility with high-performance thermal and hygiene standards.
• Installing fast-access doors, chill rooms, and equipment zones to support rapid inspections.
• Achieving regulatory compliance with UK and EU veterinary and food import requirements.

The completed BIP now provides Heathrow with a secure, high-performance inspection facility featuring dedicated dock loading, efficient logistics flow, and durable food-safe finishes.

Scope of Work

Building Fabric & Envelope

• Construction of an independent steel-framed BIP structure adjacent to the main cargo facility.
• External envelope built using insulated composite panels with matching roof finish and flashings.
• External dock leveller installed with fully sealed loading bay and weather-tight shelter canopy.

Internal Fit-Out – Inspection Rooms & Chill Stores

• Partitioning to form multiple temperature-controlled inspection chambers with independent access doors.
• Hygienic GRP-faced panels to all walls and ceilings for ease of cleaning and compliance.
• Non-slip food-safe resin flooring across the entire BIP area for durability and hygiene.

Access & Door Systems

• High-speed sectional overhead doors and sliding chill doors installed for operational speed and efficiency.
• Stainless steel crash plates, kerbs, and protective bollards to safeguard equipment and finishes.
• Personnel access doors with vision panels and emergency signage fitted throughout.

Mechanical & Electrical Installations

• Power and lighting installed throughout, including LED fittings, emergency lighting, and illuminated signage.
• Integration of refrigeration units, pipework, and air handling systems for constant temperature control.
• Data and fire alarm systems fitted in line with airport and DEFRA standards.

Compliance & Regulatory Features

• Full adherence to Border Inspection Post standards for import inspection, including DEFRA audit requirements.
• Sanitary zoning, washdown areas, and floor-to-wall coving installed to prevent cross-contamination.
• Clear line markings and zone identification in accordance with food and animal import controls.