How To Do A Physical Security Risk Assessment
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Many companies conduct physical security risk assessments after facing a major threat. By this time, they might have already lost valuable assets or harmed their consumer trust. However, you should not wait for any security breach before reevaluating your safety procedures — this is where a physical security risk assessment comes in.
Proper assessment is the foundation of physical security. To properly conduct a physical security assessment, you need to identify the potential risks, review your facility security, review your physical security systems, and finally, review your operating systems. Below is an in-depth look at these steps:
1. Identify Potential Risks
The first step is to identify your risks clearly. Different facilities and locations have varying levels of risks. You should scale your physical security measures accordingly. For example, a bank located in a high-crime neighborhood would naturally require more security measures than one in a safer area. Potential risks can come from:
- The rate of crimes in the area
- The types of crimes committed
- The number of people that can access your facility
- The number of entrances and exits to your facility
- The number of personnel and monitoring systems
2. Review Your Facility Security
Take note of any vulnerabilities in your physical buildings. Start with functionality and maintenance, such as, door locks that no longer work properly, problems with windows, gates that don’t latch, etc. Basic maintenance is important in keeping your facility safe and secure.
3. Review Your Physical Security Systems
You might consider reviewing the blind spots of your cameras, alarm systems, etc. Risks can range from internal threats to external threats. Establish physical security measures that can tackle multiple types of threats. This is an essential part of reviewing the comprehensiveness of your physical security measures.
4. Review Operating Procedures
Finally, evaluate the security procedures for your staff. Review emergency plans and procedures and make sure your staff is properly trained for them. By properly working with staff, you can ensure the business isn’t open to outsiders.
An in-depth risk assessment is an important step to increase your physical security. Once you know your strength and vulnerabilities, you must take the necessary steps for securing your facility. Take a look at the rest of SIA Online to learn more about physical security.
