Physical Security Principles Essay

Safety in numbers has always been a deterrent method when leaving or traveling through places that are not safe. But without proper physical security measures set in place when leaving any facility or building the need for a crowd will be of no use. Proper physical security requires accessing the risk that may cause threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks when certain principles are not implemented. Physical security also refers to tangible impediments to attack or unauthorized entry. Safety involves having the building, grounds, access to and from the parking area, and other hidden locations secure by lighting, monitoring, and physical patrol. Physical security should include the inside of the building as well as the outside and adjoining perimeter. Building Security There can never be too much security for a business, corporation, school, or home owner. The threat of an individual causing bodily harm or taking personal belongings without permission are very high if proper equipment and safety precautions are not taken. Proper lighting and cameras should accommodate buildings for the safety and protection of employees, staff, and students. Securing the facility and the type of risk that is ssociated with each building will need analyzing and assessed for protection. Each facility is different when providing security for their site. Federal buildings will not require the same type of protection as a bakery. Security for Building Occupants and Assets (2009) states â€Å" that it may require addressing certain situations such as unauthorized entry/trespass (forced and covert), insider threats, explosive threats, stationary and moving vehicle-delivered, mail bombs, package bombs ballistic threats, small arms, high-powered rifles, drive-by shootings, etc. weapons of mass destruction (chemical, biological, and radiological) disruptive threats (hoaxes, false reports, malicious attempts to disrupt operations) cyber and information security threats† (WBDG, 09). Each business building structure will determine the basic requirements for securing the safety and well being of staff and personnel. One size do not fit all but according to Katz and Capsi, 2003, states â€Å" Prior to running out and ordering millions of dollars of protective equipment, professionals should evaluate the overall security of your facility and a detailed report of the results should be prepared†. Ground Security Another key issue that complements the safety of any building is the lighting of that building. Lighting inside and outside of a building can help deter physical mishaps and attacks The lighting should be situated at every entry and exit and also throughout the building and also positioned correctly for better angles and views of open areas and spaces. Perimeter security lighting should also be available for long corridors and parking garages. Correct lighting in these places can give patrons a better visual of their surroundings and also allow them to see what may be obstructing their path. Having proper lighting and cameras may not be enough to keep out unwanted activity. Employing trained security professionals to patrol the facilities can add to deterring criminals. Hired security guards by a reputable company can add to the buildings safety and that of the patrons coming and going. How likely a crime target any specific building is, depends on the perceived gain to the perpetrator, balanced against his perceived risk of apprehension or defeat (Witherspoon, 2002). The presence of a trained guard can limit the amount of loitering or negative behavior outside and offer a feeling of safety to staff and employees who are ntering or leaving the building. Technology Advancement Physical security for any facility is a major factor for keeping safe and having modern technology on site is a greater addition. Protecting the facilities assets requires the company to stay ahead with modern day upgrades and devices for ensuring that whatever or whomever is gaining access to the property is suppose to be there. Monitoring the individuals who enter through facility access control and perimeter fences or installing video and closed circuit television surveillance can eliminate trespassers and those with no prior business on the property. Personal identification systems can also be established that use fingerprints and biometrics to gain access into any facility for staff and personnel. The amount of technology to use for physical security is unlimited depending on the facility and what needs protecting. Conclusion Physical security involves many components such as location, configuration, size, shape, and many other vital attributes that comes with a standing structure. Keeping people safe on the inside as well as those on the outside requires security principles that go beyond what just the normal eye can see. Applying the correct physical equipment to lower the risk of unwanted behaviors and attacks depends on how well the perimeter is guarded. Advanced technology including cameras and monitoring systems add to the insurance of physical security and if used properly can lower the possibility of threats. There is never an answer for what system works best but using a variety of methods is sure to make leaving work a little safer.