electronic security systems

The purpose of electronic security systems (ESS) is to protect a wide variety of assets from various types of threats by using electronic sensors, cameras, and automated access control systems.

An effective ESS should operate on the Detect, Delay, Respond Principle, which ensures that the time between detection of an intrusion and response by security forces is less than the time it takes for damage or compromise of assets to occur.

The five steps of the risk management process are: 1) Identify assets, threats, and vulnerabilities; 2) Conduct a risk analysis; 3) Develop countermeasures to address certain risks.

The role of automated access control systems (AACS) is to interface with locking mechanisms to permit access to controlled areas after verifying entry credentials, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access those areas.

The three general types of automated access control systems are coded devices, credential devices, and biometric devices.

One advantage of using coded devices is that they are reliable, compact, and user-friendly. A disadvantage is that codes can be easily passed onto unintended visitors, posing security risks.

An AACS should have the capability to log and archive all entry attempts and alert authorities of unauthorized entry attempts.

Life safety considerations are important because the access control system must accommodate free egress in emergencies, allowing people to exit quickly from controlled areas.

The anti-passback feature is implemented to mitigate the risk of someone giving their credentials to another person to access a controlled area.

The two-person rule prevents individual cardholders from entering a selected empty controlled area unless accompanied by at least one other person.

A biometric device allows individuals access to a controlled area after they display a specific biological characteristic, which is compared to a stored characteristic for verification.