Physical security means protecting people, property, buildings, rooms, offices, and other physical infrastructure from real-world (non-digital) threats—things that can happen in the “physical world.” It covers both prevention and response to fires, floods, power outages, severe weather, or other environmental incidents. It also includes protecting people and assets from threats such as theft, damage, destruction, break-ins, vandalism, workplace violence, and other unauthorized activities or harm.
Typical physical security measures for US SMBs include implementing practical systems, processes, and controls to protect assets and employees, such as perimeter barriers (fences, gates), video surveillance (CCTV), security personnel, access control systems (badges, key cards, PINs), door and window locks, intrusion and panic alarms, visitor management (sign-in and badges), lighting, and environmental monitoring (smoke/CO detectors, water leak sensors, and temperature/humidity sensors).
Most Common Measures of Physical Security
- Access Control Systems: These systems regulate who can enter specific areas of a facility. They often include keycards, biometric scanners, PIN codes, and physical barriers like doors and gates.
- Video Surveillance: Security cameras are used to monitor premises and deter criminal activities. Surveillance footage can be used for real-time monitoring and as evidence in case of incidents.
- Intrusion Detection Systems: These systems include motion sensors, glass break detectors, and door/window sensors to identify unauthorized entry or attempted breaches.
- Security Personnel: Employing trained security guards to monitor and protect the premises, especially during off-hours.
- Locks and Alarms: High-quality locks and alarm systems are essential for securing doors, windows, and other entry points.
- Environmental Controls: Measures like proper lighting, fencing, and landscaping can enhance security by making it harder for intruders to approach unnoticed.
- Server Room Security: Locking up server rooms and securing servers to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data
Why Physical Security Matters for Small and Midsize Businesses
- Physical security protects employee and visitor access to your workplace and facilities
- It prevents unauthorized individuals from entering restricted areas without proper authorization
- It covers the use and upkeep of physical controls like access control systems, turnstiles, gates, alarms, doors, locks, and keys
How to Manage Access to Company Premises?
- See what options there are for controlling access to rooms and other spaces
How Aptien helps Manage Physical Access Control
- Track employee access rights in the job description
- Maintain a complete view of your facilities in the building register
- Maintain a room inventory in the room register
- Assign keys or access cards during the employee onboarding process
- Collect and verify returned cards and keys during the employee offboarding process
- Use the policy portal to keep employees informed about company policies and procedures
- A core workflow is issuing and revoking keys or access cards for employees