Are intruders invading your property? Find out the importance of perimeter security and how to secure your premises.
We take you into the heart of defining perimeter security and how the components secure your assets.
A robust, well-designed perimeter security system acts as a powerful deterrent to intruders, significantly enhancing the overall safety of the property.
Buckle up to learn about the benefits of perimeter security and how to adopt effective measures.
Let’s start!
Perimeter security:
Perimeter security is using any barrier to keep intruders or unknown persons out and protect the people, assets, and machinery inside the area the boundary surrounds.
We can say:
Physical perimeter security keeps unwanted people out and keeps insiders safe!
Fences, walls, gates, and other natural obstacles form the first line of defense against intruders.
But…
A comprehensive perimeter security solution is when CCTV security cameras monitor these physical barriers. Install AI-powered CCTV cameras around the perimeter and integrate them with a top-tier live video monitoring system to ensure that only authorized individuals gain access to the premises.
This way, your company sets standards or rules for those who are allowed to enter the premises. If they satisfy those particular rules, then they can enter!
Why do you need perimeter security?
Perimeter security is essential for full control over the movement of people and vehicles near your property, ensuring you’re alerted to potential theft, vandalism, or terrorism.
Additionally, disgruntled employees may collaborate with criminals, opening the door to a variety of threats. Barriers, gates, and doors alone aren’t enough to stop these intruders!
We need an additional security layer.
Businesses do not solely rely on physical perimeter security measures. In the era of artificial intelligence, people are looking for more proactive detection of security breaches or intrusions, whether individuals, vehicles, or even fire.
Perimeter security alarms can detect unauthorized activity and trigger alerts the moment an intruder breaches the boundary, ensuring swift action and enhanced protection.
- Fence panel stretching: Detects and alerts when the fence is distorted during climbing.
- Strong vibrations or noise: Triggers alarms for significant disturbances near the perimeter.
- Slow climbs: Detects and alerts even gradual climbing attempts.
- Ladder climbing: Activates when a ladder is used to scale the fence.
- Fence cuts: Sounds an alarm if the fence is cut or tampered with.
- Unauthorized entry attempts: Detects forced or suspicious entry actions.
- Movement detection: Alerts to unexpected movement near the perimeter.
- Tool usage: Activates when tools are used to tamper with the fence.
- Proximity sensors: Triggers alarms when intrusions occur close to sensitive areas.
- Infrared beam breaks: Detects interruptions in infrared beams across the perimeter.
- Glass breakage: Sounds an alarm when windows or panels are shattered.
Key elements of perimeter security:
The key elements for perimeter protection involve physical barriers and monitoring them. Security is devised to prevent unauthorized access that may damage the assets and machinery, and hurt the people within the boundary.
The safest perimeter security system comprises of:
| Physical barriers 🔽 | Perimeter security devices🔽 | Remote video monitoring systems🔽 |
|---|---|---|
| ● Vertical/Mesh fence. ● Traffic arm barrier. ● Full-height pedestrian turnstiles. ● Pedestrian gates. ● Automatic bollards. ● Bifolding speed gates. | ● CCTV cameras. ● Perimeter alarms. | ● Access controls. ● Advanced video analytics. |
Physical barriers:
Physical barriers are the first line of defense in perimeter security.
Sturdy barriers secure and solidify the sites against accidents, attacks, or environmental disasters.
Here is a list of a few tried and tested perimeter barriers:
Vertical/mesh fence:
It could be erected around the building’s perimeter to create a basic physical boundary. It prevents intruders and indicates the property line, while mesh design allows visibility and reduces climbing attempts.
Traffic arm barrier:
Allow entry only for authorized vehicles by fixing it at vehicle entry points. This is considered to enhance the security level since only legitimate and authorized vehicles are allowed to pass through without allowing tailgating.
Full-height pedestrian turnstile:
They are set up at pedestrian entry points to regulate and deter unauthorized movement. They ensure that only authorized persons pass through and provide physical barriers against intrusion.
Pedestrian gates:
These gates are installed along designated walking paths to monitor and manage pedestrian movement. They provide controlled access points and can be equipped with locks or access control systems to restrict entry.
Automatic bollards:
These can be installed in high-security areas or at vehicle entry points to guard against ramming attacks. Consequently, they provide dynamic access control and protection against vehicular breaches with their rising and retracting mechanisms, activated as needed.
Bifolding speed gates:
These should be installed at key vehicle and pedestrian entry and exit points, ensuring fast, secure access control while maintaining efficient flow and preventing unauthorized entry.
Perimeter security devices:
CCTV cameras:
CCTV cameras are the key technologies involved in perimeter security! These allow real-time monitoring and recording, which can expedite the process of security personnel observing and responding to suspicious activity.
PTZ cameras:
PTZ cameras are ideal for perimeter monitoring because they can pan along the left-right axis, tilt along the up-down axis, and zoom in or out to increase the area coverage while their field of view changes.
They allow you to use fewer cameras while still achieving comprehensive perimeter monitoring for optimal security.
If an intrusion alarm is triggered, operators can access live video feeds, control the cameras in real-time, track suspicious activities, or focus on specific areas. This dynamic adjustment ensures quick response and captures critical footage during incidents.
Thermal cameras:
You want to improve the visibility and perimeter security threefold?
For night time or low light conditions we suggest a thermal security camera along the perimeter. Thermal cameras give enhanced perimeter detection even in pitch darkness.
These cameras have exceptional heat-signature-detection capabilities that allow them to identify people or animals even in complete darkness and even through bushes or trees.
Generally, active thermal imaging cameras are good at detecting the energy emitted through obscurants such as smoke, dust, fog, blowing sand, rain, and snow.
As shown in the following figure, for example, a thermal camera will make a far better identification of a person than the regular cameras.
Not only will they provide much better recognition of people, vehicles, or animals, but they also provide information about what a person is holding, for example, a weapon,and something about their attire also!
Best thermal cameras for optimum perimeter protection:
LPR cameras:
A license plate recognition camera is a vital perimeter security monitoring element. As soon as a vehicle approaches the gate, the camera captures the license plate and stores it in a database.
An LPR camera is also able to track vehicles entering restricted areas.
The automated license plate reader system swiftly and accurately logs each vehicle entering or exiting your parking lot or controlled area. The recorded video feeds can later serve as evidence in legal proceedings, if needed.
Top LPR cameras for perimeter security:
Perimeter alarms:
Various kinds of perimeter sensors can be used to meet your security needs. When these perimeter alarms or sensors are triggered, they activate a loud siren.
Here we have a list of how you can use different types of sensors strategically placed and their specific roles in enhancing perimeter security.
| Sensor Type | Placement | How It Enhances Perimeter Security |
|---|---|---|
| Photoelectric Beams | Along fences, walls, or entry points | Detects intrusions by sensing interruptions in light beams, providing early warnings. |
| External PIRs (Passive Infrared Sensors) | Around the perimeter, especially near entry points | Senses heat signatures of moving objects, alerting to unauthorized movement. |
| Laser Sensors | Across open areas or entry points | Detects interruptions in laser beams, providing precise detection of intrusions. |
| Radar Sensors | High-value or sensitive areas | Monitors large areas and detects movement through various environmental conditions. |
| Fiber-Optic Detection Sensors | Embedded in fences or barriers | Detects disturbances and cuts in the fiber-optic cables, signaling breaches. |
| Microwave Sensors | Above fences or around buildings | Senses movement and vibrations through microwaves, effective in various weather conditions. |
| Electric Monitored Fences | Perimeter fencing | Detects tampering or breaches through changes in electrical current, providing immediate alerts. |
| Vibration Sensors | Attached to fences, walls, or gates | Senses vibrations caused by attempts to cut, climb, or breach barriers. |
| Seismic Sensors | Below or around fences and barriers | Detects ground vibrations from digging or heavy impacts, alerting to possible breaches. |
Remote video monitoring:
Access control system:
Access control systems manage who can enter or exit a secured area. These systems can include RFID keycard readers, biometric scanners, and security checkpoints via two-way radio and one-way video, ensuring that only authorized individuals can gain access.
Standards and rules of entry are specified for people approaching the gate so that only authorized individuals are allowed inside.
Perimeter security means setting access standards for vehicles and people!
Perimeter protection involves setting clear standards and rules for entry. You establish access criteria by checking who can enter through permits, ID cards, or other forms of proof.
Once properly identified and approved, entry is granted. Remote gate access control allows operators to permit entry only during specific times or conditions, following preset SOPs.
AI-powered video analytics:
Perimeter security also means the use of security cameras with built-in or cloud advanced video analytics such as license plate recognition, tailgating detection, violence detection, intruder detection, gun detection, loitering detection, and much more.
These tools help with early detection and send alerts to keep you informed.
Strobe lights and automated or live video intervention messages via loudspeaker scares off intruders.
Remote video monitoring services:
You may have the sturdiest fences, surveillance cameras, and even advanced video analytics in place, but it all falls short without a third party to respond swiftly to alarms triggered by camera AI when a breach occurs.
The most effective security approach is remote live video monitoring by expert operators, who take immediate action the moment an alarm is triggered.
Let’s find out how perimeter security works with remote video monitoring services.
How does perimeter security work – The 5 Ds of perimeter security.
A comprehensive perimeter security solution is one that tackles every stage of an intrusion attempt.
Deter – Discourage criminals before they act.
To strengthen perimeter security and create both physical and psychological deterrents for intruders, a comprehensive set of security measures must be implemented.
First, place security cameras. They serve as a visible deterrent and offer crucial evidence in the event of an intrusion.
Next, you position warning signs around the perimeter that clearly communicate the presence of security measures and the consequences of trespassing.
If a camera spots an intruder, strobe lights and a siren turn on to scare them away. An alarm also sounds at the remote video monitoring station. Trained operators can view live video feeds, assess the situation, and respond with recorded or live audio messages, effectively deterring the intruder.
Detect – Catch intrusions early.
Remote video monitoring allows quick detection of intrusions. AI solutions, such as object detection are highly efficient and reduce false alarms.
Remote operators act quickly by following each client’s specific SOP to avoid damage and loss on site.
Deny – Control access and verify identity.
Remote operators greet visitors arriving at a site’s entrance. They verify credentials according to each client’s SOP via one-way video and two-way audio. Only authorized individuals are granted access.
Delay – Make intrusions time-consuming.
Sturdy locks on gates and doors, along with strategically placed bollards to further impede access.
For example, the moment an intruder attempts to climb the fence, the alarm is triggered, notifying the remote video monitoring team and activating strobe lights.
This disorients and delays the intruder, potentially causing them to abandon the attempt or be stalled long enough for security teams to arrive on site.
Defend – Respond swiftly and effectively.
The diligent remote operators respond precisely and effectively to every incident by following each client’s specific procedures, such as issuing voice interventions through on-site speakers, contacting police, dispatching security agents, or notifying the business’s security manager.
Discuss – Partner for optimal security.
Top-notch remote video monitoring centers such as Sirix offer consultations to assess individual security needs and recommend the most effective perimeter security solution.
Sirix provides a complete perimeter security solution, making sure your property is safe at every stage of a potential intrusion.
Benefits of perimeter security:
- Early warning system.
- Continuous perimeter security.
- Lowers compliance cost.
- Swift detection as compared to security guards.
- Guards against fires.
- Ensures authorized entry only.
1. Early warning system:
Perimeter detection serves as a critical early warning system, allowing you to detect intruders before they breach your compound or access valuable inventory. Quick action can then be taken to deter or apprehend them, minimizing potential damage.
When the system detects a break-in, it sets off an alarm. A remote video monitoring operator immediately takes control of the situation, talking directly to the trespasser and sending security staff if necessary.
You can also monitor the incident in real-time via a mobile app, as long as you have an internet connection.
2. Continuous perimeter security:
Some sites need 24/7/365 perimeter monitoring. Fences and security cameras that are not connected to a remote video monitoring center are simply not enough anymore for industries such as car dealerships, public parking lots, truck yards, and others.
Moreover, for schools, EV parking lots, some retail stores and multi-family residences that need ongoing, vigilant, and tailored surveillance, continuous monitoring might be the best option.
3. Lower compliance costs:
Compliance with regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA often drives investment in perimeter security.
The potential costs of not following the rules are substantial. Organizations that don’t meet these requirements may face large fines, legal costs, and damage to their reputation, which can far exceed the initial investment in security measures.
Therefore, keeping strong perimeter security is not only a regulatory requirement but also a smart move to protect against significant financial and legal consequences.
4. Swift detection as compared to security guards:
AI-enhanced security cameras around the boundary can quickly and reliably spot trespassers and damage better than guards on patrol.
Perimeter security with advanced video analytics reduces the number of people needed to protect office buildings, apartments, shopping centers, and construction sites.
You reduce your security cost and enhance ROI by saving time and money because fewer employees must stand by and continuously monitor security.
5. Guard against fires and bad weather:
Fire alarms and weather-resistant barriers at the perimeter provide protection against environmental risks that could otherwise compromise the security and integrity of the area.
Smoke and fire detection is also a great method to detect fire hazard early and stop it before damage is caused.
6. Authorized entry only:
Tracking systems and logs at entry points aid in monitoring and managing the movement of individuals, thus making sure that only authorized people gain access.
Strong barriers, access controls, and surveillance around the perimeter add more and more security layers to help safeguard valuable assets from theft or damage.
In addition, you can even define perimeter within your warehouse, scrap metal yard or even processing plants by adding more surveillance cameras and perimeter alarms.
Perimeter security made easy: Introducing the Autonomous Security Box.
Sirix’s Autonomous Security Boxes have been effectively set up at many outdoor locations across North America, providing unparalleled perimeter protection.
Sirix’s outdoor guards feature 3 security cameras with AI-enhanced video monitoring, speakers for voice interventions, LTE connection, and several security features. See more details in the image below.
They offer an affordable and flexible option for businesses looking to improve security. With their ease of installation and minimal maintenance, autonomous security boxes are ideal for protecting your property.
Images above: Sirix’s Autonomous Security Box protects a recreational vehicle dealership in the province of Quebec. Installed by our partner EVOC Sécurité Inc.
Conclusion:
Physical perimeter security is the strategy a building uses to deter, detect, deny, delay, and defend against potential intrusions.
An integrated perimeter security system includes the installation of physical barriers, such as fences and gates, along with advanced technologies like CCTV cameras.
AI-powered video analytics, and other types of alarm systems for perimeters.
The key advantages of a strong perimeter security system include early threat detection, expert third-party monitoring, and effective deterrence of unauthorized access. This ensures minimal damage and theft, regulatory compliance, and peace of mind through continuous monitoring and protection.
A balanced perimeter security solution allows you to effectively manage access, handle incidents quickly, and maintain security inside the environment.
Contact us today for customized perimeter security for your business.
