Security is not just a technical or legal concept, but a deeply human one. It is fundamentally ingrained in our psychology, shaping our behaviors and decisions.
From the earliest days, the quest for safety and security has driven humankind to develop systems to protect ourselves from physical harm. Although the ways we seek security have adapted significantly over time, whether we are locking our doors at night, installing antivirus software on our computers, or wearing seatbelts in our cars, the one constant is that we continually seek ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones from harm.
One of the most universal forms of security in the workplace is physical security. But what is physical security, why is it so important, and what measures can you take to protect your business?
Defining physical security
Physical security refers to the measures and techniques employed to protect an organization's tangible assets - such as people, property, and resources - from unauthorized access, criminal activity, and natural disasters.
Why physical security is important
Physical security is not only a matter of protecting assets and property, but also of ensuring the safety and well-being of employees. With the rise of new and complex threats, such as cyberattacks impacting physical systems, violent incidents, and natural disasters, businesses need to be proactive and prepared for any scenario.
Physical security technology enables businesses to detect, deter, and respond to threats as well as mitigate the financial and emotional impact of workplace incidents. By implementing physical security measures, businesses can also meet legal and regulatory standards, especially in high-risk industries.
Physical security training for employees is also crucial in equipping them with the knowledge and skills to handle such situations effectively and mitigate risk.
Physical security is a vital component of a resilient and future-proof workplace.
Understanding physical security threats
Physical security threats can take many forms, such as theft, vandalism, or threats to employee safety.
- Theft: Burglars and other criminals may attempt to gain unauthorized access to a facility to steal valuable items, often causing damage in the process.
- Vandalism: Individuals or groups deliberately deface or destroy property, resulting in costly repairs and disruptions to operations.
- Threats to employee safety: These threats can come from various sources, such as workplace violence, hostile intruders, or hazardous materials. They can endanger the lives and well-being of employees, customers, or visitors, and damage the reputation and morale of the organization.
- Natural disasters: Fires, extreme weather events, and earthquakes can cause significant damage to a facility and its contents.
Implementing appropriate physical security controls can help mitigate risks and improve workplace safety.
Five essential physical security measures
How can you safeguard your physical assets and operations from various threats and risks?
Being prepared is the first step to addressing physical security threats. A physical security risk assessment is the foundation for this and helps businesses identify and evaluate potential threats and vulnerabilities, leading to the implementation of effective physical security controls.
Based on the findings, the organization may decide to implement various physical security measures such as access control, perimeter security, and surveillance or intruder detection systems.
Physical Access Control
Physical access control is the process of regulating who can enter or use a physical space or resource. A physical access control system (PACS) is often installed to monitor and enforce physical security. PACS prevent unauthorized access and protect the safety and privacy of authorized users.
Perimeter Security
Perimeter security encompasses the solutions used to secure the boundaries of a physical space or facility from intruders. Perimeter security systems aim to deter, detect, delay, and respond to unauthorized entry attempts.
Surveillance Systems
A surveillance system is a network of cameras and monitoring devices designed to detect, record, and deter unauthorized activities within a designated area. Surveillance systems aim to provide visibility and evidence for security purposes, ensuring safety and protection of people and property.
Intrusion Detection Systems
An intruder detection system is a security measure designed to identify and alert personnel to any unauthorized access or malicious activity within a physical space. Intruder detection systems aim to notify and trigger appropriate actions in response to security breaches
Security Awareness and Training for Employees
Employees play an important role in preventing, detecting, and responding to intrusions and other security incidents. Employees should receive regular physical security training and updates on how to recognize and report suspicious activity, follow access control protocols, respond to emergencies, and maintain physical security measures. This can reduce the risk of physical security threats and foster a culture of security within the organization.
The role of technology in physical security
In recent years, the world of physical security has experienced significant transformation. Physical security systems have evolved from disparate solutions into sophisticated ecosystems providing key operational insights.
Integrations are the driving force behind modern physical security ecosystems. They bring together different security solutions into one unified platform, enhancing protection and situational awareness. Integrated systems allow users to see and respond to security events in real time, as well as access valuable data that can help them spot trends, assess risks, and refine their security plans.
The cloud is another game-changer for physical security systems. It offers automatic updates, richer data sets, and limitless scalability. It also enables remote security management, increasing accessibility.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force that is reshaping industries, revolutionizing operations, and enhancing efficiencies. AI is beginning to play a role in physical security, enabling the identification of unusual patterns or behaviors in real time, providing security teams with actionable insights, and even predicting malicious acts. While there is enthusiasm for the potential benefits of AI, there are notable challenges and hesitations regarding its adoption. The complete impact of AI on physical security remains to be fully realized.
Examples of successful physical security implementations
There are thousands of examples across diverse industries from education to mining and corrections of organizations experiencing benefits of implementing physical security solutions.
One organization that has benefited from the implementation of a physical security system is National Mini Storage, a self-storage company with 12 sites across Auckland, New Zealand. After installing Gallagher's monitored pulse fence and perimeter solution, National Mini Storage experienced better deterrence and detection of intruders, reduced false alarms, improved insurance rates, and enhanced operational efficiency.
Furthermore, one of the fastest growing districts in the upper Midwest of the United States, Harrisburg School District, South Dakota had their physical security put to the test when in October 2015, the local high school was the target of a shooting. The system locked all outside doors, notified district authorities, and limited building access to emergency responders within just four seconds of the emergency button being pressed. This quick response prevented the situation from escalating further and protected hundreds of students.
The long-term benefits of investing in physical security
Investing in robust physical security measures is not just about addressing immediate threats; it is also about ensuring long-term peace of mind and the protection of valuable assets.
One of the most significant long-term benefits of investing in physical security programs is improved business operations. Physical security can streamline business operations by minimizing downtime due to theft or vandalism. Furthermore, automation of administrative tasks like time and attendance tracking, visitor management, credentialing, or even just turning the lights on and off each day reduces the burden on staff and frees up time to focus on more compelling tasks.
Physical security can also help organizations comply with various regulations and standards. For example, some industries, such as banking, healthcare, education, and government, have specific physical security requirements to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and information. Physical security can also help meet the expectations of customers, clients, partners, and regulators who demand high levels of security.
Perhaps one of the more surprising benefits of physical security is creating an environment that attracts and retains top talent, a task that can cost an organization thousands each year. Foundationally, when employees feel confident their workplace is secure and their employer prioritizes their physical - and cyber - safety, they’re more likely to stick around.
Physical security is a fundamental aspect of protecting individuals, organizations, and communities from harm. The quest for safety has driven humankind to develop systems to protect against physical harm, evolving significantly over time. Recent advancements in technology, such as integrations, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, have transformed physical security into sophisticated ecosystems providing enhanced security and operational insights. By prioritizing physical security, organizations can reap a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond security, ensuring long-term peace of mind and the protection of valuable assets.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, take the next step towards enhanced security today. Contact our team to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help improve your physical security.