To carry out duty procedures and successful management, teamwork between a central team and a local security unit is needed. “If the geographic areas to be watched are too extended or even nationwide, generally the local security team of each geographic area will be responsible for watching these various links to improve rapid responses during triggered alarms and incidents,” Liong said.
Cost-Effective Expansions and Upgrades
Acceptance of network-based technology upgrades continues. “Construction projects in the petrochemical environment can be complicated and time-consuming,” Alexander said.
For large-scale projects like oil/ gas exploration and production sites, experts recommended IP-based video to save on wiring. “Since network video devices are able to utilize the same cable infrastructure as other IT/IP devices, adjustments to the system is an easier task overall when compared with security devices that require legacy cabling methods,” Karas said.
Planning for scalability in advance makes site growth more efficient. “This is typically achieved by installing extra conduits and cable chases when cable is first installed and in advance of the need for full capacity,” Karas said. “Wireless expansion options also make expanding the network backbone easy. This can be especially valuable for applications where security devices need to be relocated around a facility frequently or deployed in advance in an area under construction before the full physical and network infrastructure is in place at that location.”
For holistic monitoring of the entire premise, physical security information management (PSIM) can integrate multiple inputs to create events. “In many cases, though, a fully integrated PSIM solution might not be in operation. The security operations center may have to be proficient with two or three different monitoring platforms, especially if that operations center is monitoring traditional security systems, such as surveillance and access control,” Karas said. “This is particularly evident in the oil and gas industry where there is typically a mix of facilities that have different security systems installed at different times.”
Planning considers the various threats, dangers and expansion scenarios the facilities might face during operation. The security management team must stay alert about technology developments and specific user requirements.