security for a building including access control

Introduction

When designing a comprehensive security solution for a client, it is important to take into account all aspects of physical as well as information security. The security consultant also needs to ascertain the client’s goals and objectives, understanding the location of strategic assets and resources. While budgetary constraints might impact client choices, the consultant can nevertheless offer several different options and make recommendations based on preliminary analyses and risk assessments. Unless the client is constructing their building from scratch, security options will also depend on the limitations posed by the structure and its architectural and interior design. Using an example of a medical clinic in a small city, the following aspects of physical and information security will be taken into account when making client recommendations.

Building Security

Building security begins with a thorough assessment of the architectural blueprints, and takes into account building materials too. Security is not just about protection from intruders, vandals, or thieves, but also from natural and environmental hazards. All points of potential weakness or vulnerability should be taken into account first. In this case, an abundance of windows is the first point of vulnerability that needs to be addressed. The type of glass used on those windows, and their locking mechanisms will determine the best measures to take regarding the installation of alarm systems if warranted, or the upgrading of locks.

The medical clinic has one main entrance with a large double door, plus two back entrances. There is no basement, which is good from a building security standpoint. If there were laboratories in the basement, it would present specific challenges. In this case, the main issues are with the need to install CCTV in as many areas as possible inside, coupled with strategically placed external cameras. Because this is not an in-patient clinic, there is also the possibility that an alarm system is warranted.

Grounds Security

Grounds security extends the locus of control beyond the physical structure to include the parking lot and any attached green spaces. In this case, the building is surrounded by a row of hedges that could be used to hide intruders. It would be recommended to trim the hedges regularly. If it is within the client’s budget, it would also be recommended to hire a nighttime security guard to patrol the grounds. This is a heavy additional cost, though. If the client believes that the assets contained within the clinic, including pharmaceuticals, warrants the investment, then it would be strongly recommended. Cash is not used for most major medical transactions at this clinic, reducing the likelihood of armed robbery and eliminating the need for full-time daytime security staff. However, clients might prefer that the parking lot be monitored with CCTV. The relatively low cost of CCTV and the ability to upgrade the system as the company allocates more of its budget to security, makes it a simple solution that acts as both deterrent and loss prevention system.

Access Control Systems

Access control systems restrict access to authorized persons only. Currently the building does not have an electronic access control system. Clients can walk in and out at will. It is important to maintain a flow of traffic to the main guest services area. There is no need for access control at the main entrance, or any need for metal detection systems.

However, inside there are two areas that should have access control systems. One is the main office area and the other is the room in which the narcotics are kept. Currently these areas are set apart only with a door, albeit one that has CCTV. However, it is strongly recommended that an access control system be installed to limit the flow of traffic to these sensitive areas.

The office contains important documentation, client records, and billing information, as well as all office equipment and information systems. Access is currently through an interior door as well as an exterior door, neither of which has access control installed. The exterior door has a sturdy lock, but an access control system would further prevent the possibility of theft. The narcotics are one of the main draws for potential thieves. An access control system is also necessary to prevent staff or clients from committing a crime.

Perimeter Security

The clinic is a stand-alone building. Therefore, it could benefit from more robust perimeter security. The importance of perimeter security in this case is to prevent intruders from accessing the property after hours, when it would be illegitimate to do so. There are “layers” to the perimeter (IFSEC Global, 2018). At this property, there is the initial boundary between the public walkway and the building, which is an even, well-trimmed hedge. Then, the parking lot essentially serves as another layer. After that, the building has a perimeter hedge. There is a high wall at the back of the property that is vulnerable. This is where the client should focus, perhaps by installing barbed wire or at the very least installing additional cameras.