Any business is exposed to the threats of trespassers, thieves and vandals. At the property boundary is the first line of defense. The article provides an explanation of the need to have perimeter security in the current business practices. Strong external barriers prevent most of the threats before they get to the buildings or individuals.
The merits of perimeter security in modern business operations
What is perimeter security
Perimeter security involves the use of fences, gates, barriers and sensors of property. It also addresses lighting, cameras, as well as doorway access control systems. Having these physical measures deters and slows intrusion. An effective perimeter will provide the security personnel with time to react.
How weak perimeters hurt businesses
An open gate or broken fence is an invitation to trouble. Thieves seek easy victims that have weak external protections. Theft and vandalism cost companies thousands of dollars in damage and stolen products. The security incidents increase the insurance premiums following recurrent security incidents. Perimeter security is important following a costly breach.
Reasons why perimeter security is important to business operations
A powerful external defense has several advantages that have a direct impact on the security and the budget of a company. The points below demonstrate why all businesses should have powerful outer defenses.
- Stops intruders before they reach buildings: A high fence with anti-climb properties will prevent casual trespassers, and sensors will alert as soon as someone touches the fence.
- Reduces theft of equipment and inventory: Locked gates and vehicle barriers ensure that after-hours loading is not possible and thus costly tools, stock, and electronics are not stolen.
- Lowers insurance premiums over time: Insurers will give a discount to businesses that have certified perimeter systems and savings made annually will usually cover the security upgrade in a few years.
- Keeps sensitive data physically secure: Server rooms within a building must be first defended with an outer layer and databases of customers and trade secrets are compromised by a breached perimeter.
Choosing the right perimeter security layers
The choice of the appropriate combination of barriers and detectors is a step-by-step process depending on the layout of the property. Efficient outer defenses to every business can be developed with the help of the following steps.
- Start with a physical barrier: Have a tall fence or wall which is difficult to climb and cut, and keep gates locked.
- Add electronic detection devices: Install infrared beams, buried cables, or motion sensors along the fence line to alert to any attempt of intrusion.
- Install bright LED lighting: Place lights on motion sensors at all gates, corners and dark spots to remove concealed places.
- Install cameras at every point of entry: Have cameras at strategic places to capture clear faces and license plates and not too high or too low.
- Control vehicle access strictly: Install access cards or biometrics or intercoms on all vehicles entering the premises.
A look at the frequently asked questions
Will perimeter security prevent serious criminals?
No system can prevent all the intruders but strong perimeters slow the intruders to allow some time so that guards or police may arrive in time.
Which is the most significant aspect of perimeter security?
It is most important that a physical barrier is combined with electronic detection and good lighting.
Are small businesses able to afford good perimeter security?
No, simple solutions such as motion lights, tough fences, and visible cameras are within the budget of most small businesses.
What is the frequency of testing perimeter security?
Conduct a full test after every 3 months and a quick visual check after every week in order to identify the issues at an early stage.
Are cameras sufficient to be considered as perimeter security?
Cameras are used to record intrusions but not stop them hence use cameras together with fences or sensors to provide protection.
