Upgrading your access control system

David SawyerAccess Control, Physical Security Leave a Comment

New technologies, escalating security threats and the need to derive greater value from your access control infrastructure are all good reasons to consider an upgrade.  Upgrading from older technology to a new access control standard is a significant undertaking but recent advancements have made the transition easier and depending on your overall objectives, can have a more significant ROI. If …

When your security devices get used against you

David SawyerCyber Security, Physical Security, Video Surveillance Leave a Comment

Every day, the world is becoming more connected.  Our smart phones, our cars, even appliances in our homes are linked via the internet.  Internet of Things (IoT) or Internet of Everything is shorthand for the opportunity to create new commercial value by making things smart.  But, with the convenience that this may bring, it also brings security woes that stem …

Active Shooter

David SawyerPhysical Security, Threat Assessement Leave a Comment

In an active shooter situation, how quickly police can respond and how information is gathered and disseminated is crucial to saving lives. In my role as security consultant, I recently had the opportunity to visit the folks at Shooter Detection Systems in Rowley, MA for a demonstration of their product.  The consulting division of Safer Places is often tasked with …

How well is your guard force supervised?

David SawyerPhysical Security, Security Guards, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

Yea, I know, your contract with Great Guards, Inc. says they will send a roving supervisor by to check on your security officers on a random, unannounced basis a couple of times per week.  But who actually makes sure they are doing this and what does the supervisor actually do when he/she visits your property?  Have they ever reported finding …

Why Hire a Security Consultant – Reason # 6

David SawyerPhysical Security, Threat Assessement, Video Surveillance Leave a Comment

You planned for it in your budget and now it’s time to get the work done; a complete overhaul of your outdated video surveillance system and the addition of an electronic access control system. You’ll need to obtain competitive bids and you absolutely need to get this right the first time. You’ve been advocating for money to make your campus …

Don’t Fire your Guard Contractor (again)

David SawyerPhysical Security, Security Guards Leave a Comment

“I don’t think my security guards are making patrols as they should. The guard company said they would be trained but it doesn’t seem like that’s the case. They’re supposed to report it when lights are burned out but I found out there was a parking lot light out for 2 months!” Common complaints; we hear comments like these and …

Tailgating

David SawyerAccess Control, Physical Security Leave a Comment

Some call it piggybacking, others tailgating. Whatever you call it, it’s compromising your security. Whether you have an old fashioned lock and key or a fob reader with a magnetic lock, it’s there to keep unauthorized people out. Same thing goes for vehicle access systems such as gate arms or rolling gates. Only those presenting the proper credentials should be …