Take a look at the photo above. Can you guess what it is? It is a “security system”, which unfortunately is not only easy to climb over, but is also to provide non-authorized personnel cover should they seek access to this company’s private property without permission. When we conducted a site analysis and were briefed beforehand, the client told us they had this fence and the site was secure.
Really?
Our security experts consult with businesses of all types and sizes across the country about physical security and how to protect the company’s people, property, products and brands every day. It never ceases to amaze us how the disconnect between security and the ultimate objective of safety and protection permeates business today and how the “security mindset” contributes to this phenomenon.
By “security mindset,” we mean a couple of things:
- The idea that a company can hire anyone at the lowest cost, trained or untrained, slap on a uniform and badge and then post them somewhere on a site and then feel like due diligence has been accomplished.
- The idea that Physical Security measures such as Lighting, Security Cameras and Fences are all the same, and you just buy ‘em, install ‘em and you are done.
With this thinking in place, we literally find that 99 out of 100 of the business sites we survey have significant breakdowns of their security systems that lead to increased physical risk, not the intended risk reduction.
What’s more, effective security is the exception, not the rule, unfortunately, creating a dangerous illusion of safety and protection which really does not exist under these circumstances.
Here are some examples of what we see all too often:
1. Inadequate Fence & Gate Systems
Gaps, holes, broken “fabric” or overgrown with brush. Some fences have posts that are loose, gates that are mis-aligned or the wrong sizes so that anyone can walk through at will.
2. Ineffective “Security” Camera Systems
Most “systems” are usually unmonitored and inadequately or improperly designed with equipment that either doesn’t or can’t provide the pro-active coverage needed for protection.
3. Exterior Illumination or Lack Thereof
Broken lights or ill designed systems create pools of darkness and opportunities for theft, violence, or other illegal acts on company property under the cover of night.
And what’s even worse, most of the “systems” we see were assembled in piecemeal or hodgepodge fashion overseen by multiple managers often over many years.
Does this look familiar to you?
If so, it’s probably time to consider an investment your physical security systems and have a physical site security audit conducted by a certified security designer to help you understand your situation and how to ensure the protection you and your employees deserve and expect.
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