What are the four layers of physical security?

Physical security is the protection of people, property, data and assets from physical actions that could cause damage or loss.

Condo buildings, schools, office towers and entertainment facilities all require physical security to protect people and the property from physical security threats.

Traditional physical security is often thought of as patrol guards and sturdy gates, but modern physical security systems are layered and far more sophisticated. Proactive security strategies have had to evolve since criminal behavior is always changing and adapting.

   

Table of contents

• Four layers of physical security
• Common physical security threats
• Technology’s role in physical security

   

Four layers of physical security

Individual security organizations may have their own categories of security, but there are four general physical security levels or layers that the industry uses:

   

Layer 1 – Deter

Deterrent physical security measures aim to prevent issues from occurring at all. Facilities will use tall perimeter fences, barbed wire, access-controlled doors or gates, and warning signs stating that the property has active security, to keep trespassers out.

   

Layer 2 – Detect

If an unauthorized person makes it into the building, security teams will employ detection strategies to apprehend the person as quickly as possible. Some people might slip in behind an employee or resident (a technique known as tailgating), or they might find a way to scale barriers.

In these cases, guards will turn to security cameras, alarms or motion sensors to locate the individual. If an intruder is spotted quickly, it makes it easier for security staff to find them, and/or contact law enforcement before they do anything to the property.

   

Layer 3 – Delay

Many of the physical security measures used to deter people also work to delay intruders. Access control systems within a facility can slow an intruder down, making it easier to apprehend them. For example, an elevator may only go to certain levels if the user taps a fob first. The intruder would need to figure out which levels they could access without the fob.  

   

Layer 4 – Respond

This last step may require security guards to go to where the intruder is. They may use communication systems to connect with other security personnel, or lock down an area to contain the intruder until first responders can get to the scene. Guards should never enter a situation that puts their own lives at risk.  

   

Common physical security threats

Human activity can be very unpredictable. However, there are some recurring security issues that impact private and public facilities.

   

Unauthorized entry

Unauthorized entry includes tailgating, social engineering, or gaining access via stolen passes or codes.

Unauthorized entry occurs daily, and often, if it’s a condo building or workplace, the individual doesn’t have any intent to steal, harm people or damage property. They simply want in to visit a friend or family member. But security companies can’t take any risks. Guests should be required to check in with security and get proper authorization to enter the building.   

   

Violence 

Acts of aggression or altercations impact the security of an establishment, as well as the safety of the people within. While fighting, harassment and acts of targeted violence are not as common, they do occur, especially in places where alcohol is being served. Since fights are rather spontaneous, they are harder to prevent.

   

Vandalism 

some businesses are at risk of their property being destroyed or tampered with. This can be linked to a company’s location — for example, if the building is next to a nightclub or bar, alcohol-related vandalism could be a frequent problem.

   

Theft 

Theft can be a major concern for corporate businesses that own invaluable personal data. Jewelry and tech stores are also very susceptible to theft.

   

Technology’s role in physical security

A layered security approach requires several security solutions, including technology. While futuristic solutions do exist, most companies do not have the money to invest in top-end equipment. Instead, they count on a number of reliable tools to help them perform their jobs more effectively.

   

Guard tour systems

The guard tour system is not new, but it has gotten a lot better. These systems fall under the detect category. While conducting rescheduled inspections of the building or facility, a guard may find a person in a place that they shouldn’t be, or witness them doing something like stealing a bike. This will trigger the guard to seek help from other guards, or first responders.  

Guard tour systems like Patrol Points are very user-friendly and accessible. Guards can scan checkpoints and complete tours using just their phones. They also have the ability to create incidents and upload photos on the go so that important information isn’t forgotten.

Once a patrol has started, guards can complete it without wifi. This comes in handy for stairwells, parking lots, and other spaces that don’t have network availability. Patrol data is automatically synced to the cloud once a smartphone has access to a network.

   

Video surveillance

Video security also falls under the detect category of physical security control. Using a live connection and smart cameras, security professionals can spot suspicious activity in real time. Some surveillance technology may also deter intruders. For example, you could add speakers or horns to cameras to “scare off” intruders.

There are many different types of cameras, including those that detect sound a temperature changes. But HD analog security cameras are still one of the most popular choices because they are less expensive and provide high-quality footage.

   

Predictive analytics

This is a new technology that will likely become more prevalent over time. It falls under the deter category as it stops people from doing things before they occur.

AI-driven predictive analytics will play a pivotal role in identifying potential security threats. This software processes data from surveillance cameras, access control systems, and IoT sensors to anticipate security breaches, abnormal activities, or potential safety hazards. It will alert security teams, who then have more time to be proactive and mitigate risks before they escalate. 

   

Sensor technology

Sensor technology is available separately from surveillance cameras. Sensory technology detects environmental changes and will alert the security team to potential threats. It too falls under the detect category, but may act as a deterrent. The most commonly used type of sensor is a smoke alarm, but sensors can detect and observe motion, sounds, light, vaping, temperature and more.

   

Conclusion

Successful security measures require a multifaceted approach. Regardless of where they work, security teams implement a layered approach to protecting people and property. That way, if someone gets through the first “layer”, the security team still has time to respond before the person is able to do something that would disrupt normal operations or harm others.