As an independent consultant specializing in security solutions, I’ve crafted this guide to help organizations enhance the security of a building. Drawing from our physical security consultant team of industry-leading experts, this article outlines a holistic approach to safeguarding people, property, and assets. By integrating physical, technological, and procedural measures, you can easily and cost effectively improve the security of a building, creating a secure and welcoming environment that mitigates risks and ensures compliance.

Why Building Security Matters

The security of a building is about more than just locking doors, it’s about protecting occupants, assets, and operations from threats like violence, theft, and vandalism. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reporting on workplace violence homicides, reported 458 workplace homicides in the United States in 2023, accounting for 8.7% of the 5,283 total fatal work injuries recorded that year.

From a property perspective and according to the FBI’s 2021 Quarterly Uniform Crime Report, over one million property crimes occurred in the U.S., underscoring the need for robust security measures. Effective security deters criminal activity, ensures occupant safety, protects valuable equipment and data, and maintains compliance with industry regulations.

Core Components of the Security of a Building

A comprehensive security strategy integrates multiple layers to deter, detect, and respond to threats. Below are the key components, synthesized from physical security consultant insights.

Access Control Systems

Access control systems regulate who enters a building and specific areas within it. Common systems include:

• Key Card Systems: Use electronic cards for entry with logs to track access.
• Biometric Scanners: Employ fingerprint or facial recognition for high-security areas.
• Smart Locks: Allow remote management and multi-factor authentication.

Access Control: Best Practices

• Ensure access permissions to remove former employees or contractors are done in real time such as through integrations with the organization’s identity source of truth. Electronic integrations can be established between databases to remove the human element and expedite privilege revocation.
• Use multi-factor authentication for sensitive areas like data centers or labs.
• Maintain visitor management systems to screen and track non-employees, enhancing safety and deterring crime.

Surveillance and Monitoring

The security of a building can be improved with the proper surveillance system which may deter crime and provide forensic evidence for investigations. Cameras should be IP and typical types of cameras include dome, bullet, PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom), and IP cameras, each suited for specific environments.

Surveillance and Monitoring: Implementation Tips

• Place cameras at choke points such as entry/exit points, high-traffic areas, and near critical assets.
• Ensure the appropriate quality footage fit for purpose in varying lighting conditions. For example, 40 pixels per foot minimum for facial recognition and 60 pixels per foot for license plate recognition (LPR) or via the use of LPR fit for purpose cameras. Contact BPS for a pixel calculator.
• Secure video data storage to meet industry standards or at a minimum, video recorded for a reasonable duration within which you would likely discover an incident. That can vary wildly from one organization to the next.
• Use analytics to alert for unusual activity, enhancing real-time response. A Security Design study can identify and apply this technology smartly.

Intrusion Detection

Intrusion detection systems alert security personnel or the police to unauthorized access. Common tools include:

• Motion Sensors: Detect movement in restricted areas.
• Glass Break Sensors: Trigger alarms when windows are shattered.
• Perimeter Sensors: Monitor building boundaries.
• Duress alarms: While not technically an intrusion device, it can be used by persons working in high risk positions to summon police if a person becomes violent.

Integrating these with access control and surveillance creates a robust security network. It is more important now than ever to consider video verification as law enforcement is not necessarily highly motivated to respond to building alarms as so many of them are false or nuisance alarms, so the security of a building can be compromised with delayed emergency response.

Perimeter Security

Perimeter security prevents unauthorized access before it reaches the building where the risk dictates. Key measures include:

• Fencing and Barriers: Establish a clear security perimeter.
• Lighting: Use uniform lighting to illuminate walkways and entry points. Consider motion-activated lighting for energy efficiency, enhanced security, convenience and safety.
• Landscaping: Apply Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, such as trimming bushes to eliminate hiding spots and maintaining clear sightlines.

Example: Well-lit parking areas with visible signage deter trespassers by sending a “not here” message.

Security of a Building: Planning and Implementation

Effective strategies for the security of a building start with a strategic plan based on a thorough risk assessment. Below are the key steps to develop and implement a security plan.

Conducting Risk Assessments

A risk assessment identifies vulnerabilities, such as unsecured entry points or inadequate lighting. High-security buildings should conduct assessments annually, while others may do so every five years, depending on risk and compliance needs. Assessments evaluate:

• Physical vulnerabilities (e.g., weak doors, dark corners).
• Use patterns (e.g., high-traffic areas).
• Past incidents or breaches.
• Results that inform a master plan to mitigate the highest risks in an affordable and phased manner.

Learn more about our Security Risk Assessment process

Developing a Security Master Plan

A security plan outlines objectives, measures, and protocols. Steps include:

1. Define Objectives: Protect assets, ensure occupant safety, and comply with regulations.
2. Select Measures: Choose systems like access control or surveillance based on risk assessment.
3. Implement Protocols: Establish emergency response and evacuation procedures.

Regularly review and update the plan to address new threats or changes in building use.

Selecting Appropriate Measures

Balance cost and effectiveness by prioritizing high-risk areas. For example, install weapon detection at major entry points or use turnstiles to control access. Phased implementations can help manage budget constraints.

Employee Involvement and Training

Engaging building occupants is critical for a security-conscious culture. Employees and security personnel must be trained and empowered to act.

Importance of Employee Awareness

Employees should:

• Follow access control protocols (e.g., not propping doors open).
• Report suspicious activities anonymously.
• Participate in emergency drills.

Clear, actionable policies reviewed annually embed security into the organizational culture.

Training Programs

Security personnel require:

• Basic Training – Patrol, observation, and report writing.
• Advanced Training – Specialized skills for high-risk environments.
• Ongoing Education – Updates on new threats and technologies.

Employees should be trained in access control, emergency response, and incident reporting.

Emergency Drills and Communication

Regular drills prepare occupants for crises like evacuations or lockdowns. Communication channels, such as hotlines or mobile apps, ensure timely information sharing. Crisis communication systems should be accessible in all areas and tested regularly.

Maintenance and Continuous Improvement

The security of a building requires ongoing maintenance to ensure security systems remain effective.

• Regular Inspections and Audits – Inspect systems like access control, cameras, and alarms to ensure functionality. Audits review past incidents to identify weaknesses and recommend improvements. For example, check for door prop/ajar alarms or camera blind spots.
• Upgrading Systems – Replace outdated hardware and update software to address new threats. For instance, upgrade to IP cameras for better resolution or integrate analytics for real-time alerts.
• Security Site Surveys – Annual site surveys by physical security consulting experts provide objective insights into vulnerabilities

Conclusion

The security of a building is a dynamic process that requires a strategic blend of physical, technological, and procedural measures.

By conducting regular risk assessments, implementing robust systems, engaging employees, and maintaining compliance, you can create a secure environment that protects people and assets.

Explore additional resources on improving physical security