Physical Barriers and Deterrents

1. What are some of the physical barriers provided by CCTV and chain link fences as they related to discouraging criminal activities?

Physical security has different types of security which include CCTV surveillance. Video surveillance security is increasingly important because of the advantages it offers. The cameras are placed in visible areas which can also cover a large area through the continuous record of the video. These cameras may also be connected to the alarms and other security features which act together.

The CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) is evolved to include IP-based internet cameras which send a direct feed of the video record to the control station. As part of surveillance, CCTVs are placed on tall poles such that the coverage is extended. The history of CCTV dates back to the time of World War II which was used to monitor the rocket launches from a safe distance.

There are two ways the CCTVs can help behave as a physical barrier. Before the activity, the cameras act as a physical barrier because they are placed in a place visible.

Any intruder who can see the cameras have a sense that every activity is recorded. Thus, acts as a deterrent. If the attack has already happened, the recorded feed of the camera can be used to check and analyze the attack and the details of the attacker. Thus, CCTVs act before and after the attack – crime prevention and detection.

Video monitoring and analysis are often connected to alarm systems. Video monitoring requires human interference for continuous monitoring.

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Therefore, motion detections, heat sensors, and image processors are used so that any intrusion is detected by the sensors, recorded in the cameras, and the security personnel is alarmed.

CCTV also acts as a psychological deterrent in aiding the apprehension and detection of the intrusion.

A chain-link fence is also a popular physical barrier that has been used fr a long time. The chain links used are to be gauge 9 or heavier as per the rules. The material used is usually a galvanized fabric of metal with openings in the form of a mesh. The openings are usually smaller than 2 inches. Poles are used to attach the mesh from a safe distance. Chain link fences mark the border of the area and also provide solid security against intruders. Climbing and crossing the chain link fence is usually difficult. There are no solid gripping areas for the intruder to get onto the fence (‘How Can CCTV Surveillance Systems Improve Security?’, 2019).

Usually, chain link fences are combined with CCTV so that barriers and surveillance types of physical security are installed together. Chain link fences deter and delay the planned and unplanned intruders. Also, the fences can be used in the form of gates and doors to allow vehicles and people (‘Physical Security Toolbox: Fences and Gates’, 2019). Such gates are no less secure because they are identical to a secured door and locking mechanism.

2. Should the designs and features of physical barriers are considered when business owners are planning to install such systems at their business? Why or why not?

Yes, the design of the physical barriers and their features should be thatcarefully considered before installing such systems. There are several reasons for the same. The physical barriers are designed to secure the area/building from intruders and unauthorized access. Each type of physical barrier possesses specific rules that help the barrier work efficiently. Therefore, the design parameters should be carefully considered.

Walls – Securing the area with tall walls has been proven successful and the entire world uses walls as the best popular physical barriers. The height of the walls, types, and thickness along with access methods are the parameters to be considered before the walls are built to secure the building or area. The most popular method of securing the area is a tall boundary wall with or without additional secure methods such as spikes. Such walls may not be possible to be built in case the building is in a commercial area amidst other buildings. Also, the aesthetics of the building may be harmed if the walls do not suit the style of the building. Compound barriers are preferred in such cases where walls will be installed with spikes and razor wires.

Spikes – Spikes on the walls have been a very old method of a physical barrier which will discourage the intruder from entering the building. Spikes on top of the walls act as a compound barrier as walls and spikes are barriers individually. Some design parameters need to be considered when installing spikes. Spikes are not encouraged to be installed where the public walk and may encounter the area unintentionally. Therefore, the spikes should be intended only to secure the area where an intruder might attempt to enter and should not be allowed. The spikes are installed to be visible to the intruder and the public because the psychological factor also plays an important role. The perception that the wall or spike is difficult to cross is a strong factor that will stop the intruder.

Tall fencing and wiring, razor wire – Fencing is an important barrier that discourages intruders. Tall fencing gives a perception that it is impossible to cross the fence. On the other hand, the razor wires and mesh wires also make it difficult to cross the fence. The perception of height, type of material, no aids to help climb, etc. are the features of these physical barriers that deter the intruder. Tall fencing is not allowed in certain places. Therefore, other barriers should be combined in such places. Barriers like tall fencing are usually not allowed in public places and commercial buildings.

Vehicle barriers – It is important to discourage any speeding vehicle inside the area. The vehicles can be discouraged to speed away using speed breakers, curves, small entrances, etc. These designs should also be considered only when the features of the barrier cannot be compromised.

building codes – All the list rules including the physical security methods are usually listed in the building codes manual. These codes are popular across the world and help design the security method in the best way possible.

A good example of physical barrier design is always a compound method that is designed only for the building (Cozens & Love, 2015) (Cozens & Love, 2015). Thus, the physical barrier design is always a customized version. The design components of any physical barrier should not be compromised for aesthetics, cost, or convenience. Each barrier serves its purpose only if they are appropriately installed and are functioning. Maintenance of the barriers also plays an important role. Rust kills fences, walls are damaged by earthquakes and construction works, speed breakers need maintenance, etc. (Reynald, 2010) (Shumway, 2013).

3. From the reading material list and explain 4 types of fences.

There are many types of fences. Iron fences, Wood fences, chain link fences, and vinyl fences are usually good examples (Types of Fences, 2019)

Iron fences – are durable and sturdy. It is not possible to easily dent or damage the iron fence and can be used along with other fences to secure the area. Rust must be managed.

Wood fences – They are available in different styles and are used in certain areas. They are preferred in areas with a need for lesser security than areas with an iron fence. Also, maintenance is on the higher side.

Chain link – The most secured fence used for commercial places is chain link. The height of the fence depends on the facility’s requirements. Maintenance is required.

Vinyl fences – offer lesser security but cost very less to maintain. They are used in securing private houses and areas.

References

1. CCTV is a major component of many physical security systems. (2019). Retrieved from https://mintehbaa.wordpress.com/2011/12/22/cctv-is-a-major-component-of-many-physical-security-systems-recent-technological-developments-have-included-colour-solid-state-ccd-cameras-and-image-intensification-discuss-the-factors-to-be-consi/
2. Cozens, P., & Love, T. (2015). A Review and Current Status of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED). Journal of Planning Literature, 30(4), 393-412. DOI: 10.1177/0885412215595440
3. Cozens, P., Saville, G., & Hillier, D. (2005). Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED): a review and modern bibliography. Property Management, 23(5), 328-356. DOI: 10.1108/02637470510631483
4. How Can CCTV Surveillance Systems Improve Security?. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.facilitiesnet.com/security/topic/How-Can-CCTV-Surveillance-Systems-Improve-Security–19062
5. Physical Security Toolbox: Fences and Gates. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/phys_sec/deter/fences.htm
6. Reynald, D. (2010). Translating CPTED into Crime Preventive Action: A Critical Examination of CPTED as a Tool for Active Guardianship. European Journal On Criminal Policy And Research, 17(1), 69-81. DOI: 10.1007/s10610-010-9135-6
7. Shumway, J. (2013). Butler County’s Iron Mountain Houses Some Of U.S.’s Most Amazing, Priceless Treasures. Retrieved from https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2013/11/19/butler-countys-iron-mountain-houses-some-of-u-s-s-most-amazing-priceless-treasures/
8. Types of Fences – Choosing the Right One • EcoFencing Company. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.ecofencingcompany.com/types-of-fences/