Typically, the words ‘perimeter protection’ suggest images of high walls and chain link fences, but there is often more to it than that. While physical boundaries are critical for stopping threats, they also need to be closely monitored. Advanced technology solutions implemented at the perimeter are the key to achieving effective protection.
Access control remains a critical part of every security and safety solution, and it starts with protecting the most external boundary or perimeter of the property. However, the complexity of the approach needed often depends on the size, purpose and location of this boundary. In some cases, perimeter protection can be straightforward. For example, on smaller sites, it’s often sufficient to have a manned checkpoint and fence only. However, not all perimeters are created equal and they can stretch for kilometers on large sites, making monitoring and intervention challenging for security personnel.
Fortunately, there is a range of advanced technology options designed to ‘see’ where the human eye cannot and support security personnel in protecting properties or even territories. Integrated networked devices form a more intelligent, cybersecure, IP-based perimeter surveillance solution to help detect threats, minimize false alarms and support security staff in protecting properties – even across long distances and in varying lighting conditions.
Implementing a multi-layered approach
Before exploring the different approaches that can be implemented, it’s worth considering the objectives of the security and protection strategy. Essentially, the aim is to stop and prevent threats – land, sea and airborne – before they even enter the premises and cause damage to valuable assets. This can include theft, vandalism or even physically targeting the devices themselves to gain access to the business’s network as part of a cyberattack.
Dividing the perimeter into different zones enables security professionals to consider the type of sensors needed at each layer. This multi-layered approach not only allows for flexibility and scalability within the solution but also determines how these sensors communicate and interconnect in alert and emergency scenarios. Integrating different components such as radars, cameras, other sensors and AI-powered analytics will provide the best possible solution.
This means that the zone of surveillance should start beyond the property line, which is referred to as the ‘pre-frontier’ zone. Monitoring this area enables security teams to detect activity and potentially intervene before the threat enters the premises.
In this zone, radar or thermal cameras placed on the front fence line can be directed outwards to detect and identify unwanted activity or potential intruders at any time of the day, across long distances and under varying weather conditions. In this way, individuals can be spotted well before they reach the gate or fence. Cameras coupled with third-party drone detection solutions can track and identify airborne threats, notifying security personnel of suspicious activity. Strobe sirens or speakers can also be implemented here to integrate with existing sensors and help deter intruders.
One point to note is that false alarms can occur in this zone, and utilizing a combination of technologies equipped with AI-powered analytics will enable better detection and differentiation of actual threats to improve efficiencies.
Moving inwards from the front fence line, the perimeter can be divided further into a buffer zone, barrier or bollard zone and a second fence line. These form the next areas for detection and intervention and must be monitored to prevent intruders from successfully accessing the property. Similar to the pre-frontier zone, a combination of networked technologies can be implemented to detect and deter intruders who have traversed the first line of defense – before they reach valuable assets.
Border control – perimeter protection in action
Border control is the ultimate example of how boundaries can be monitored and protected. This is due to the combination of extensive distances, changes in terrain and the need for stringent access control. Borders must be continuously monitored to prevent illegal activity. It’s worth bearing in mind that geopolitical tensions can raise the stakes, especially during times of conflict.
In this scenario, the goals of effective perimeter protection are to support security personnel by detecting suspicious activity beyond the border line, allow for effective intervention and help security personnel to manage and coordinate responses to alarms. However, the nature of borders can introduce challenges when it comes to monitoring and detecting activity.
For example, changing topography (e.g. mountains and forests) can introduce blind spots which impact security operations. Borderlines also tend to be very long, for example, the US - Canada border is 8,891 km. This affects the ability to conduct manual patrols and respond to threats effectively. Additionally, the length of these borders increases the likelihood that harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain, low lighting and false alarms will all be factors that need to be managed.
The key to achieving effective perimeter protection lies in implementing a combination of technologies to help overcome the range of challenges encountered here. A layered approach will be critical in this scenario, treating each zone slightly differently depending on what is needed.
For example, radar and thermal technology can be used in combination with PTZ cameras along the front fence line to track objects within the protected area and continuously monitor and identify intruders or suspicious individuals across long distances. This allows for early detection and intervention before the border line is breached. On the ground, security personnel on patrol can be equipped with body worn cameras to provide another perspective alongside traditional PTZ cameras and improve intervention coordination with GPS positioning and human-level live view.
Enabling superior monitoring and defence against myriad threats
Effective perimeter protection ensures that threats are identified and stopped before they can reach valuable or critical areas within the property. However, factors such as the weather, lighting, terrain and distances make it challenging to implement solutions that can monitor areas all year round. An approach which leverages the capabilities of a range of cameras and AI-powered analytics is the best way to ensure that security personnel are sufficiently supported and able to intervene if a threat is detected. In this way, different types of threats can be reduced before they can make an impact, leading to better outcomes.
