Physical Security Best Practices

Physical security measures protect people and property by deterring threats, controlling access, and monitoring the environment. Facilities such as schools, municipal buildings, and commercial properties should implement a layered, tiered security approach as recommended by the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS). Key best practices include:

• Access Control: Secure all main entry points with robust access control systems. Modern electronic access control (e.g. card or fob systems) is preferred over traditional keys – it mitigates risks from lost keys and allows instant revocation of credentials or remote lockdown of doors in an emergency. Exterior doors should have reliable locks or exit devices (compliant with fire codes) and be monitored for door-open status to prevent propping or tampering.

• Video Surveillance: Deploy a comprehensive video surveillance system covering key areas like entrances, hallways, parking lots, and other high-traffic or vulnerable zones. Camera placement should eliminate blind spots and provide clear views of building perimeters and interiors. Establish a clear video surveillance use and data retention policy governing how footage is used and how long it’s kept. Ensure cameras are regularly checked (ideally weekly) to confirm they are online and functioning properly, and that recording devices have sufficient storage for retained video. Integrate cameras with alarm systems for real-time monitoring when possible.

• Visitor Management: Control and monitor all visitors entering the facility. Best practices include a single secure entry vestibule for visitors, where they must check in and present ID. Implement a visitor management system to log entries/exits, issue visitor badges, and restrict unescorted access beyond reception areas. Train front desk or security personnel to follow verification procedures for every visitor (e.g. purpose of visit, escort required) – this adds a critical layer of security at the point of entry.

• Door Hardware & Physical Hardening: Use high-quality door hardware and reinforce entry points against intrusion. All exterior doors should have commercial-grade locks, door frames, and hinges that resist forced entry. Where feasible, upgrade doors and windows with blast-resistant or shatter-resistant materials (e.g. security film or laminated glass on windows) to delay unauthorized entry. Regularly inspect and maintain door closures, panic bars, and locking mechanisms to ensure they function correctly during both daily use and emergencies. Properly locking doors (including classroom or office doors) is one of the most essential components of physical security, so staff should be trained and drills conducted to secure doors quickly during a threat.

• Duress/Panic Alarm Systems: Equip key areas (front desks, classrooms, cash handling offices, etc.) with panic buttons or duress alarms that allow staff to silently call for help when an emergency occurs. These can be fixed buttons (under desks or on walls) or mobile fobs carried by staff. Panic alarm systems have proven extremely valuable in emergencies by enabling immediate notification of security or police. Ensure any duress alarms are integrated with your security monitoring or local law enforcement response system, and train employees on when and how to use them.

• System Upgrades (Outdated Technology): Proactively plan to upgrade or replace outdated security systems. Legacy analog CCTV cameras, VCR/DVR recorders, or old alarm panels should be migrated to modern IP-based or networked systems. Upgrading analog cameras to IP digital cameras, for example, yields far superior resolution and adds cybersecurity benefits – IP cameras offer encrypted video signals and user access controls that older analog systems lack. Likewise, older lock systems can be upgraded to electronic access control, and analog intercoms to IP intercoms, to improve both security and functionality. Evaluate the lifecycle of security technology and budget for periodic upgrades so your facility isn’t reliant on obsolete or unsupported hardware.

• Proactive Maintenance & Testing: Keep all security hardware and technology in good working order through regular maintenance and testing. Conduct a thorough test of all security components (access control, cameras, alarms, etc.) at least annually to verify they operate properly. It’s recommended to perform certain checks more frequently – for example, weekly pings or software checks to ensure IP cameras and other networked devices are online. Promptly repair or replace any failed components; ideally, service agreements with installers should provide for timely replacement of faulty equipment to minimize downtime. Many manufacturers offer maintenance training or certification – ensure your staff or service providers are qualified to maintain the specific security systems installed. Additionally, keep firmware and software for electronic security systems up to date as part of maintenance (many systems require periodic updates to fix bugs or security vulnerabilities). By implementing a preventative maintenance program, you’ll ensure that locks, cameras, alarms and other devices are always operational when they’re needed most.

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