Alarms and Surveillance

What entry points must be considered in premises security because they could be misused?

emergency exits, windows, hatches, grilles, and so on

What can entry points such as emergency exits, windows, hatches, and grilles be fitted with to prevent intrusion?

bars, locks, or alarms

What pathways above and below should also be considered in premises security?

false ceilings and ducting

What are the four main types of alarm system?

circuit, motion sensor, proximity, and duress

When does a circuit-based alarm sound?

when the circuit is opened or closed, depending on the type of alarm

What can trigger a circuit-based alarm?

a door or window opening or a fence being cut

What triggers a motion-based alarm?

movement within a room or other area

What sensor types are used in motion detectors?

microwave radio reflection and passive infrared (PIR)

What does passive infrared (PIR) detect?

moving heat sources

How can RFID tags and readers be used in a proximity alarm system?

to track the movement of tagged objects within an area

What can a proximity alarm system detect?

whether someone is trying to remove equipment

How is a duress alarm triggered?

manually by staff if they come under threat

What forms can a duress alarm take?

a wireless pendant, concealed sensor or trigger, or call contact

How can some electronic entry locks use a duress code?

open the gateway and alert security personnel that the lock has been operated under threat

What is video surveillance typically designed to improve?

the resilience of perimeter gateways

Where may video surveillance be focused?

on perimeter areas or within security zones themselves

What technologies can implement video surveillance?

older-style CCTV or IP cameras

What can a surveillance system use to alert staff to intrusion attempts?

motion detection or facial recognition

Why is security lighting important?

it contributes to the perception that a building is safe and secure at night

How does security lighting act as a deterrent?

by making intrusion more difficult and surveillance easier

What must lighting design account for?

overall light levels, the lighting of particular surfaces or areas, and avoiding areas of shadow and glare