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
Technology & Control Rooms
Sensitive Information & Assets
CSE Imagery
Catalogue of Security Equipment
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
Vehicle-borne threats range from vandalism to sophisticated or aggressive attack by determined criminals or terrorists.
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)
CPNI undertakes product testing of items which make up physical security systems under the CAPSS (Cyber Assurance of Physical Security Systems)...
Drone flying over barb wire fence
Guidance
Countering Threats from Unmanned Aerial Systems
Supporting our customers in assessing and mitigating the security risks posed by unmanned aerial systems
Terrorist Attack
Guidance
Marauding Terrorist Attacks
Marauding Terrorist Attack guidance has been amended to accommodate the planning by organisations of first aid after an attack
Vehicle on fire
Guidance
Fire as a Weapon
CPNI have continued to conduct Fire As A Weapon trials since the release of the document in June 2021. As a consequence, the guidance has been...