Industrial sites, because of the nature of their operations, are vulnerable to many safety and security risks. These sites demand very robust security measures to safeguard people and property. Unauthorized access is one of the top concerns; large sites can be challenging to monitor which can lead to potential breaches. And because industrial sites often house expensive equipment and materials that can attract criminals, theft and vandalism is another huge concern. Ensuring the safety of workers is also a top priority and, thankfully, many of today’s technology solutions can help to prevent accidents at industrial worksites before they occur.
To safeguard assets, data, and personnel in industrial settings requires a comprehensive security plan and scope of solutions. As with most things in life, strategic planning helps ensure successful results. When it comes to formulating a solid security strategy for industrial sites, planning is everything. And it all starts with a comprehensive site assessment to identify all the potential risks and vulnerabilities present at a facility. This type of in-depth formal examination encompasses the entire facility and can serve to not only pinpoint any weaknesses but also uncover opportunities to reduce costs and improve operational efficiencies. These assessments provide an independent and objective look from trained eyes and expose any areas of vulnerability that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Based on the findings, a comprehensive security plan can be put in place. For industrial settings, protection starts at the perimeter to detect an intruder and/or any suspicious activity outside the facility. As we highlighted in Part 1 of this blog series, fence sensors use various mechanisms such as vibration detection so security personnel can be immediately notified of a potential breach. Fence detection and intrusion detection systems can identify the exact location where an attempted breach is occurring. And, they can be easily integrated with other physical security measures, such as outdoor lighting and video surveillance cameras to trigger an alarm to security personnel in the event of an actual breach.
A highly reliable and comprehensive access control system is also called for to monitor and control who can come and go, and when and where. They restrict entry and only grant authorized users access to designated areas that they are credentialed for.
Video surveillance is another must-have at industrial sites. Surveillance keeps watchful eyes over the entire facility and monitors activities in real-time. Cameras can provide visual evidence and send alerts of any potential security breaches.
Every industrial site has its own very specific and distinct security needs and vulnerabilities. Strategizing and proper planning is crucial in determining the appropriate security measures to be specified and deployed. A comprehensive, integrated security system tailored to a site’s specific needs can provide industrial facilities with the high level of security they need and that regulatory requirements demand. Call on NextGen to learn more about how we can elevate security at your site.