Most of us know that the most effective way to protect against the elements is to layer our clothing. The same idea holds true for security. The best approach involves a balance between physical and procedural security measures.

The primary layers of protection include perimeter security, external facility security, facility access control, intrusion detection, internal access control and asset protection (including protection of human resource assets). In this issue we provide an overview of the primary elements of this layered approach—we'll delve deeper into the details in future issues.

Keep in mind that the following points are general in nature. Specific types of facilities and assets need specialized safeguards to address their unique vulnerabilities. (For example, a school will require adaptations that differ from those of a biotechnology firm.) We will cover specific adaptations for various industries in future issues of the Integrator.

Layer 1: perimeter security

Perimeter access control has taken on even greater importance since 9/11. The safety of people and assets within a facility, and the security of the facility itself, can only be ensured by providing all points of entry with appropriate barriers, alarm and surveillance equipment.

Here we’re talking about controlling access to the facility grounds. In this area, the following tools and approaches should be considered:

• Reduce vehicular approach speed by adding bumps and curves in approach roads.
• Control vehicular access with barriers, traps, hydraulic barricades and/or tire spikes.
• Install card readers or other forms of automated gate access control.
• Check for any openings such as manholes, culverts, sewers, utility access, etc. which may provide hidden access to the facility.
• Inspect the fence regularly for any maintenance problems.
• Implement CCTV coupled with remote video monitoring around the perimeter, especially areas that are particularly vulnerable to unauthorized access.
• Remove any trees, shrubbery or other potential sources of concealment for an intruder.
• Install and maintain sufficient lighting along the perimeter and throughout the property.

Layer 2: external facility security

The second layer of protection involves securing the exterior of buildings. This layer of security includes:

• Identifying and, if necessary, searching vehicles permitted to park beneath or in close proximity to a building. (In some cases, it is advisable to ban or severely restrict close-proximity parking.)
• Implementing CCTV coupled with remote video monitoring around the exterior of buildings and in parking facilities. This can be especially useful as an “escort service” for employees walking to and from their cars after hours.
• Applying blast film to windows and glass doors.
• Securing and alarming windows and emergency egress doors accessible from grade level, and securing the building from accessible roof levels and setbacks.
• Checking the location and design of air intake grilles to eliminate the possibility of smoke or poisonous gases being introduced into the facility.
• Keeping loading dock doors closed and locked when not in use.
• Controlling access points into and out of the building from a common lobby or similar reception area staffed with trained personnel and employing remote video monitoring to cost-effectively monitor these areas.
• Using a messenger drop-off center with a separate entry and using internal cleared and uniformed personnel to deliver packages. Ideally, packages should be inspected by trained personnel prior to delivery.
• Instructing employees to notify security about any unattended packages or other suspicious items.
• Installing card reader or other access control systems at all perimeter entrances. (See the article on Smart Cards in the last issue for further details.)
• Installing a video intercom system to screen visitors without credentials.
• Implementing a temporary badging system to track all visitors to the facility.

The above represents only a partial list of areas that should be reviewed by employees responsible for security in their organizations. For a professional security survey and specific recommendations for your facility, contact your RFI representative.