Where to Start with Security System Planning

While most commercial properties already have some type of security system in place, it’s essential to periodically assess your security systems to identify:

1. arising security needs
2. new physical vulnerabilities
3. outdated components and software
4. potential upgrade paths

So, where to start?

1. Re-define security goals

Just as an organization evolves, so too should its security goals. Take time to think through security incidents in the recent past, pain points with the existing system, and changing conditions which may warrant enhanced security.

2. Identify internal and external threats

Although the security risks of external threats such as break-ins and vandalism can often be understood by reviewing local crime statistics, many businesses are affected by internal security issues, with some studies indicating up to 75% of white-collar employees admit to stealing from their employer at least once.

Defending a commercial property against internal threats requires the active management of access credentials, with security teams and trusted admins benefiting from the ability to monitor and adjust permissions remotely in order to ensure that secured internal environments are not easily breached.

For organizations entrusted with sensitive digital information, such as financial institutions and educational facilities, advanced mobile and cloud-based access control can often provide robust physical and cyber security protections through the active monitoring of user credentials.

3. Ensure coverage for environmental issues

A consideration that can be easily overlooked is the likelihood for extreme weather (temperatures, storms and flooding) that can impact security integrity.

Some examples of security systems designed with environmental considerations in mind:

• Cameras capable of operating in extreme heat being installed on unsheltered exteriors
• Electrical components with an IP65 or above water and dustproofing rating if they’re to be regularly utilized in heavy rain or inside factory buildings that commonly see high particulate concentrations
• Cameras with night vision capabilities installed in high-value exterior areas

4. Enhance crime prevention through physical design

In addition to a well-designed and integrated security system, the principles of crime prevention through environmental design may help property owners reduce the occurrence of physical access crimes, including break-ins and vandalism:

• Territorial reinforcement — The creation of clearly defined boundaries between public and private property, including hedges, fences and similar impassable perimeter markers.
• Natural surveillance — Ensuring that the boundaries of the property are free from natural cover and alcoves, which could conceal would-be intruders from cameras and guards.
• Environmental access control — The use of landscaping, footpaths and lighting designed to direct foot traffic along predetermined paths in view of operational security technology.
• Property maintenance — Research has shown a direct correlation between poorly maintained grounds and an increase in physical crime, as criminals are less likely to trespass on properties that are perceived to have regular groundskeepers and security staff present.

5. Look for any physical security gaps

Over time, building usage changes and physical components break down.   Take time to check facility structures to identify anything that can affect the integrity of your physical security:

• Areas that are not covered by surveillance system
• High-traffic areas that lack access control
• IT systems and equipment that are not monitored for unauthorized access
• Public spaces that lack sufficient lighting
• Entry points, such as doors and windows, that are not shutting properly or are unsecured
• Clear lines of sight to key entry points

6. Assess current system age and health

Security systems should never have a “set it and forget it” approach.  Cyber security threats, outdated software, and physical equipment can break down.  Additionally, adherence to best practices for security implementation can become loose:

• Are access control systems being actively managed (i.e., former employees and contractors removed from the system)?
• Are access logs and reports generated and reviewed?
• Are all access readers and locks in working order (i.e., If a door is propped, will it generate an alarm?)
• Are all security cameras online and working properly?
• If footage is not monitored 24/7, are there alerts for any suspicious activity?
• Is there sufficient video data storage to meet industry standards for auditing?
• Are all lockdown and crisis communication systems working?
• Is staff fully trained with the operation of your current systems?

If your system needs updating or you just want to learn what else is available for your security system, please reach out.  Our security specialists excel at leveraging existing systems and integrating them with the latest technologies.

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Content for this blog was provided, in part, by Avigilon. CM3 proudly deploys the Avigilon suite of security products.