(TLP:CLEAR) UK National Protective Security Authority Releases Guidance on Perimeter Security – Security Fences and Gates

Summary: The UK’s National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) has published guidance on perimeter security. Specifically, the document discusses security fences and gates, and it is intended to aid those responsible for developing, designing, and implementing perimeter security policies.

Analyst Note: Perimeter security is a foundational component of an organization’s physical security program. For water and wastewater utilities, enforcing stringent access controls is critical for preventing unauthorized access to sensitive sites and safeguarding vital water and wastewater services for the community. Moreover, an effective physical security framework utilizes the five D’s: deter, detect, deny, delay, and defend. These principles offer a roadmap for designing layered defenses that protect both assets and personnel.

According to NPSA, “The perimeter is likely to be the first and most visual manifestation of a sites security solution that an adversary sees. This guidance is intended to aid those responsible for delivering a new perimeter solution to identify the factors that need to be considered when selecting a perimeter fence. Fences and gates can be used to secure enclaves and important assets in addition to the perimeter of your site; however, this document will focus on fences and gates predominantly as part of the perimeter security solution.”

The document is broken down into the following categories: Threat; Attack Methodology; Fences and Gates as Part of an Integrated Security Solution; Security Fence; Large Sites; Access Points; and Next Steps.

Fences and gates are also just one piece of a perimeter security solution, Other measures could include lighting, signage, locks, security cameras, and environmental barriers. Ultimately, perimeter security should not be considered in isolation, but as part of a holistic physical security framework protecting an organization from threats across the all-hazards threat landscape.

Original Source: https://www.npsa.gov.uk/building-protection/building-infrastructure/security-fences-and-gates  

Additional Reading:

• (TLP:GREEN) Physical Security Case Study: No-Cost/Low-Cost Physical Security Improvements
• Getting Back to Basics: Perimeter Security for Substations
• (TLP:CLEAR) UK National Protective Security Authority Releases Guidance on Fostering a Security Culture

Mitigation Recommendations:

• EPA – Vulnerability Self-Assessment Tool
• Infrastructure Survey Tool (IST)
• Protective Security Advisor Program

Related WaterISAC PIRs: 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5