What Are the Layers of Physical Security: Webinar Recap

What are the layers of physical security? In our recent Layering Physical Security webinar, Paul Mascari, one of our in-house security experts and sales director for SafePointe, led a focused discussion around modern security strategies and the importance of a holistic approach to preventing and mitigating risk.

The Importance of Layering Physical Security

Layered physical security can be defined as a security strategy that applies multiple overlapping layers of protection to prevent, detect, and respond to threats.

This approach is important because:

• It provides redundancy—if one layer is breached or fails, other layers maintain that security.
• It acts as a deterrent — multiple layers discourage potential threats.
• It serves as early detection — it identifies security risks before they escalate.
• It provides rapid response — improves the ability to respond efficiently.

Dowload Our Physical Security Checklist Here

Traditional Security Measures

Security has evolved tremendously in recent years. When we think about traditional security, we often think about physical barriers like fencing or gates that many institutions want to move away from because they give off the impression that they’re unsafe.

Some other examples include, but are not limited to:

• Mixture of analog and IP surveillance cameras
• Static signage
• Physical monitoring and managing access points

While these measures have served and still serve certain purposes, they lack the sophistication required to address the complex threats we are seeing today.

Technology-Driven Security Measures

In contrast to traditional security measures, technology-driven measures represent the evolving nature of security and are better able to adapt to modern challenges. Such measures to address security include advanced tools like license plate recognition (ALPR) systems, 3D imaging surveillance cameras, weapons detection systems, and more.

Implementation Steps

All facilities considering a technology-driven layered physical security approach will need to conduct several implementation steps necessary to operationalize a layered security framework.

This includes:

• Conducting a risk assessment
• Developing a security plan
• Integrating security technology

Download Risk Assessment Guide

Key Stakeholders

Successful implementation of security initiatives will hinge on collaboration with key security stakeholders. This includes:

• Executive leadership
• Risk management & legal
• Safety & security teams
• Facility management
• IT security professionals
• Project management teams

Next Steps

• Determine the security needs based on your risk assessment findings
• Secure buy-in from leadership and operational teams
• Select the right security solutions
• Assign a project manager
• Prioritize deployment
• Develop a communication plan

Who is Responsible for Key Security Layering?

• Security managers
• Facility managers
• IT security professionals
• Senior agency officials
• Operations security officers

How SafePointe and PlateRanger Provide Key Security Layers

SafePointe™ is an AI-based weapons detection system designed for high-throughput facilities. Truly concealed from public view, the system is capable of screening thousands of patrons per hour and is up to 10x faster than standard metal detectors. As a key security layer, it reduces false alarms and speeds up entry while enhancing visitor experience with non-invasive screening.

PlateRanger™ powered by Rekor® is an industry-leading license plate recognition (LPR) and advanced vehicle recognition solution. From a law enforcement and security staff perspective, PlateRanger offers many important security layers. The technology can strengthen perimeter security by identifying threats before entry, providing forensic data capabilities for investigations, and reducing security response time by flagging repeat offenders.

Key Takeaways

• Physical security layering is essential for ensuring comprehensive protection.
• Technology-driven security measures enhance detection and response capabilities.
• A structured risk assessment helps identify vulnerabilities and tailor security measures.
• Stakeholder collaboration and a clear security roadmap are crucial for successful implementation.
• Integration of AI solutions like SafePointe and PlateRanger improves real-time threat identification and response.
• Security is an evolving process — regular reviews, updates, and training are necessary to maintain effective protection.

Watch Our On-Demand Layering Physical Security Webinar Here