As highlighted in our previous blogs of this food manufacturing series, these facilities are vulnerable to myriad risks – risks that could potentially impact public health and the food supply chain. Physical security solutions such as access control and video surveillance systems are critically important in protecting food production plants. These two technologies, when synchronized, create a solid foundation that defends again both internal and external threats.
Access control serves to regulate entry to sensitive areas and ensure that only authorized personnel can access critical zones. Surveillance keeps watchful eyes that monitor activities in real-time and provide visual evidence and alerts to any potential security breaches. The two systems work synergistically to safeguard operations. For example, if an unauthorized individual does attempt access, the access system triggers an alert that catalyzes the corresponding cameras to automatically focus on the specific area so security personnel can address the incident immediately.
And while a solid security strategy in food manufacturing starts with the integration of access control and surveillance systems, there are additional physical security measures that can and should be integrated with access and video solutions. Together, they can deliver an all-encompassing and holistic security strategy to better protect those facilities operating in the food manufacturing sector.
Perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDS) are a prime example as they provide an additional layer of security in food manufacturing environments. PIDS consist of a series of sensors, wires, and active infrared or microwave systems that can detect an intruder attempting to breach perimeter fences, restricted storage areas, or other critical zones and send alerts to security personnel. They’re often used to help safeguard various facilities, such as buildings, industrial sites, and other sensitive areas. Integrating a perimeter intrusion detection system with access control and surveillance elevates a facility’s ability to identify and quickly respond to incidents and security breaches.
Another key addition to a strong security strategy is biometric technology; it is continually evolving and being deployed more commonly within food manufacturing facilities to enhance the accuracy of their access systems. Some examples of biometric identifiers, which are unique to evey single individual, include fingerprints, retinal scans, and facial recognition. In facilities where strict control is imperative, biometrics mitigate the risk of unauthorized access that can result from lost or stolen access cards or compromised PINs. It adds an extra layer of authentication, ensuring that only individuals with the appropriate credentials gain entry.
A strong security solution is greater than the sum of its parts. Integrating these various technologies facilitates a collaborative approach that maximizes the effectiveness of each component.
Personnel training and awareness programs should also figure into that collaborative approach. When employees are educated on their facility’s security protocols, they can more easily recognize potential threats, and actively contribute to a culture of vigilance.
Continued advances in technology spell exciting news for end users, including those in food manufacturing. Artificial intelligence (AI) is getting smarter every day; integrating AI and machine learning into security systems greatly enhances predictive capabilities which allow facilities to anticipate and prevent security threats before they occur. AI-powered analytics can identify patterns in access control and surveillance data and flag anomalies that may indicate potential risks. This proactive approach enables security teams to take preemptive measures, contributing to a safer and more secure manufacturing environment.
We at NextGen are deeply experienced in securing food manufacturing facilities. We recognize that implementing a comprehensive security strategy requires careful planning and adherence to best practices. We encourage regular risk assessments to identify evolving security threats and vulnerabilities and adjust security solutions in response to stay steps ahead of potential risks. We also encourage collaboration between security, IT, and operations departments so that security measures align with overall business goals and operational efficiency. We deploy security solutions that are scalable into the future to meet the ever-changing needs of food manufacturing facilities. This ensures that the security infrastructure can grow in step with the business.
Technological advancements hold the promise of even more sophisticated and proactive measures, ensuring a safe and secure journey from farm to table.