Physical Security

Effective physical security of an asset is achieved by multi-layering different measures. The concept is based on the principle that the security of an asset is not significantly reduced with the loss of any single layer. Each layer of security may be comprised of different elements of interdependent systems

Last Updated 29 January 2021
Building & Infrastructure
Windows & Glazed Facades
Building Services & Internal Spaces
Search and Screening – Explosives, Weapons and CBRN Detection
Video Surveillance, Access Control, Detection & Control Rooms
Sensitive Information & Assets
CSE Imagery
Catalogue of Security Equipment (CSE)
The Catalogue of Security Equipment (CSE) is available to help security practitioners to identify appropriate physical security equipment. 
lorry crashing into test barrier
Guidance
Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM)
HVM focuses on reducing risks associated with vehicle-borne threats, ranging from vandalism to sophisticated or aggressive attack by determined...
Newspaper closeup outside a corner shop
Guidance
Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Threats
Good general physical and personnel security measures will contribute towards resilience against CBRN incidents
Half open lit up laptop
Guidance
Cyber Assurance of Physical Security Systems (CAPSS) Guidance
CPNI’s guidance on the Cyber Assurance of Physical Security Systems (CAPSS) has been updated to reflect the annual release of the CAPSS 2023...
Drone flying over barb wire fence
Guidance
Countering Threats from Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
Supporting our customers in assessing and mitigating the security risks posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as UAV or drones.
Terrorist Attack
Guidance
Marauding Terrorist Attacks
Marauding terrorist attacks are fast-moving, violent incidents where assailants move through a location aiming to find and kill or injure as...
Vehicle on fire
Guidance
Fire as a Weapon
Fire as a weapon (FAW) is the deliberate use of fire within a terrorist attack with the intent to cause harm. This may include causing harm to...