Physical Security: Access Control, Perimeter, Patrolling and Guarding
What the exam tests
This domain tests how physical measures control movement and protect a site. Questions commonly cover visitor management, badges, turnstiles, fencing, lighting, patrol methods and static guarding.
Access control
Identify every person and vehicle, check authorisation, issue a visitor badge, record entry and exit, and escort visitors where required. Use separate routes for staff, visitors, vehicles and goods where possible. A mantraps or turnstile allows one person at a time. Deny entry politely when authorisation is absent.
Perimeter
A perimeter should deter and delay. Use fencing, walls, gates, bollards, lighting and a clear zone free of cover. Check gates, locks and sensors during patrol. Perimeter checks look for cuts, climbing aids, tampering and blind spots.
Patrolling and guarding
Patrols may be fixed or random, interior or exterior, on foot or by vehicle. Use a clocking system or checkpoint to prove presence. Observe, listen and test doors. Vary routes so patterns are not predictable. A static guard watches a post, challenges strangers and controls the immediate area.
Worked example
A visitor without photo ID asks to meet an employee. The guard should not admit the visitor on a verbal claim. Call the host extension, confirm the meeting, record name, phone number, purpose and time, issue a visitor badge, and arrange an escort if the area is restricted. If the host cannot confirm, deny entry and explain the process.
Traps that cost marks
- Allowing tailgating because the first person had a valid badge.
- Propping fire doors or turnstiles open.
- Writing that a patrol should always follow the same route.
- Leaving a post to help a visitor without relief.
- Checking only doors and ignoring roofs, windows, drains and vehicle undersides.
Exam tip
For any access-control scenario, ask: identity, authorisation, record, escort and exit.