Keep your distance

In effective security strategy integrates various systems and technologies to ensure that all possible threats are being accounted for. Perimeter security is an essential part of this integrated approach; it is the first layer of security, and makes it difficult for intruders to physically breach the perimeter and enter the site.

There are various ways to secure a perimeter, and these can include use of CCTV technology, physical barriers and security patrols. Effective security strategies make use of a combination of these measures.

Physical protection
Physical solutions such as fencing, bollards, doors and locks are a great place to start when securing the perimeter of a site. Sturdy measures are a deterrent to intruders and can be further reinforced through use of technology, for example by mounting fence vibration detectors that trigger an alert in the security control room, with automatically directed camera observation of the area often used to track intruders’ movements and direct security patrols towards them quickly. With physical protection measures such as these, even if an intruder was to manage to enter a site, they will find it difficult to get back out.

Round-the-clock monitoring
As has been proven over the years, CCTV can be an extremely efficient form of security protection. Cameras strategically placed around the perimeter of the site can provide a thorough coverage of large areas. Round-the-clock monitoring of the system can either be outsourced to a remote monitoring centre, or be done on site to enable an immediate physical response.

There are many ways to ensure maximum efficiency as possible when watching over an area that will require multiple screens. Recent advances in technology mean you could streamline this process by employing either motion sensors for the CCTV, where the cameras only start rolling when movement is detected, or by using fence-mounted vibration detectors that trigger an alert in the security control room.

BS8418 solutions
CCTV systems that adhere to the BS8418 standard are becoming an increasingly popular method of monitoring a site. BS8418 solutions consist of cameras and detectors placed strategically around the perimeter of the site, linked together by specialised transmission equipment to a Remote Video Response Centre (RVRC). Here, operators can visually confirm what is happening, call up on-screen plans of the site and even issue verbal warnings to intruders via on-site speakers. If necessary, the RVRC operators can also alert the police who, as the incident is confirmed visually and is associated with a URN (Unique Reference Number), should provide a rapid response.

Video content analysis
Another aspect of CCTV which proves particularly useful in securing the perimeter of a site is Video Content Analysis (VCA), which is an intelligent form of security used in securing large areas that are difficult to patrol and pose a challenge in securing. VCA is the automatic analysis of CCTV images to create useful information about the content. The scope of VCA is certainly impressive and expands all the time, for instance it can now be applied for external and internal intruder detection; the monitoring of buildings for health and safety; people counting; automatic event and incident detection; safety enhancements for public areas; smoke and fire detection and camera failure or sabotage detection.

In theory any behaviour that can be seen and accurately defined on a video image can be automatically identified and an appropriate alert raised. Such an intelligent approach, with attention focused on the most relevant CCTV footage, has the potential to allow resources to allocate more effectively and remedial action to be taken before incidents have a chance to escalate to a more serious level.

Security patrols
While technology is essential in securing a site’s perimeter, a physical, personal presence can also be extremely effective in deterring potential intruders. Security patrols by foot or by vehicle are fundamental when responding to intruder detection and also give a highly visible security presence around a site’s perimeter. The feeling of security for both visitors and staff is also enhanced by the presence of security officers manning access points and by security guards carrying out random patrols in the perimeter area. The ability of security personnel to react quickly to developing situations, as well as posing an obvious deterrent to potential intruders mean they play an essential role in an integrated security solution.

Aspects such as the size of the site, location and resources available all play an important role when choosing which approach to take in protecting the perimeter of your site. Perimeter security solutions alone are often not enough, so combining these with on-site measures such as access control systems will ensure you are giving your site the best possible level of protection.

If you are new to planning security for the perimeter of your site, it is a good idea to seek expert advice by employing a security consultancy. Working independently, security consultancies act as a guide to the many products and services on the market and provide unbiased recommendations based on an assessment of the individual requirements of their clients.

The British Security Industry Association is the trade association covering all aspects of the professional security industry in the UK. Its members provide over 70 per cent of UK security products and services and adhere to strict quality standards.

For more information
To find out more about the various elements of perimeter security, visit www.bsia.co.uk, e-mail info@bsia.co.uk or telephone 0845 389 3889.