Showing posts with label Perimeter Security. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Perimeter Security. Show all posts

Thursday, February 1, 2024

Useful Measures to Prevent Unauthorized Access

Useful Measures to Prevent Unauthorized Access 

Causes of Physical Security Breaches

Unauthorized access may be gained by an outsider as well as by an in-house employee. Both physical access to a building by a stranger or entry to a server room by a staff member with no permission are examples of unauthorized physical access. Although a security system may have various loopholes, most commonly unauthorized access is gained thanks to:

·        Tailgating – i.e. an act when unauthorized people follow through a door someone who has an access card

·        Weak doors that can be easily levered or broke in through

·        Smart cards which can be easily hacked

·        Lost or stolen keys

·        Portable devices such as laptops, mobile phones and USB drives

·        Unlocked server room doors

·        Insider threat, etc.

 

Any of the above mentioned loopholes create security gaps which can be taken advantage of. Because of an unauthorized access companies may be subjected to physical theft of devices and equipment, compromise of electronic information, identity theft and vandalism. What’s more, human lives can be endangered too. Therefore, it is important that a company addresses any of the existing loopholes and prevents possible threats.

How to Combat Unauthorized Access

First and foremost, you need to define how unauthorized access can occur at your company and develop a program aimed at eradicating any possible loopholes.

Different levels of security are crucial to prevent unauthorized access. Robust access control system, employee control and emergency response help prevent unsanctioned access to facilities, devices and information.

·        Begin with perimeter security. Make sure you use fences, gates, guards and video surveillance around the perimeter.

·        By installing motion detectors and alarm systems you can attain an additional level of security.

·        Implement identification cards to verify people entering the premises, including visitors, contractors and personnel.

·        Lock up areas with sensitive information. It is also advised to enforce delay control on server room doors. Check out our guide for server room requirements.

·        Conduct background check of employees before onboarding. "Onboarding" is the process of integrating a new employee into an organization, training and orienting them.

·        Make sure you have a new hire forms checklist thanks to which you can verify your new employee’s work eligibility.

·        Set up different access control levels. Each employee should be granted permission to enter facilities depending on their role within an organization.

·        Use cable locks for computers in order to prevent theft of electronic devices.

Desktop locks are aimed at protecting computer equipment from theft.

·        Lock up sensitive files or USB drives in safes or drawers.

·        Develop an emergency plan and train employees to troubleshoot possible security issues and inform of any suspicious behavior they notice.

It is important to remember that security starts at a physical level. By implementing measures aimed at preventing unauthorized access you can protect your assets, information and personnel from internal and external security threats which otherwise might have a detrimental impact on your business.

Sunday, December 3, 2023

6 Reasons your business needs gates and barriers

6 Reasons your Business Needs Gates & Barriers 

Although the onset of the coronavirus saw a significant decrease in crime rates across the India due to enforced lockdown, there are very few reasons for businesses to take this as a sign of things to come. Indeed businesses should take this time to consider their security protocols and begin to address any shortcomings in good time as restrictions lift. Here we will look at some of the benefits of two of our most popular forms of perimeter security: gates and barriers.
1 – Barriers and gates are strong deterrents against crime
Time and time again we hear stories of criminals that have acted on opportunity when committing a crime. A broken fence, unlocked door, insufficient lighting, the list goes on. Having outdated, broken or a complete lack of perimeter security almost guarantees you to be viewed as an easy target by criminal gangs. Barriers and gates are the first port of call for many perimeter security overhauls because they actively send out a message that your business is not going to be easy pickings.
 
2 – Barriers and gates allow you to control movement
While tools like CCTV are a great way to monitor the flow of traffic and pedestrians throughout your site, they do nothing to act on it. One of the main shortfalls of CCTV is that it simply takes a record of actions. The job of dealing with any issues is left to others. With barriers and gates, you can proactively limit entry to your site. With the use of pin pads, tokens, and fingerprint recognition you can reduce the need for manpower to administer front-of-house duties.
 
3 – Real-time savings
This brings us to our next reason to invest in gates and barriers. Perimeter security is essentially an investment in your future. These enhancements protect you from the disasters that follow on from a serious crime. Businesses that are victims of serious crimes like theft, burglary, vandalism, and arson can face significant losses in several different ways. The initial impact of stock loss or damage, losses from downtime for your business, and an impact on your customer relationships or reputation are all very real consequences. They can be successfully averted by investing in your security needs before the worst happens.

 
4 – Curb appeal
Gates and barriers are often the first thing that visitors to your site or passers-by will see. A high-quality installation will provide a level of professionalism to your company brand and reputation and show that you care about the safety of your employees, assets, and visitors.
 
5 – Privacy
For businesses that operate in sensitive areas or highly competitive fields, privacy is often high on their agendas. Gates and barriers extend your footprint to the far exterior of your property and mean that the only people who can approach your site are those who you have given explicit authorisation to do so.

6 – Restrict vehicular access
Smash and grab type crimes are on the rise. This is when a perpetrator uses a vehicle to approach their target quickly, commits their crime, and then escapes again before the police arrive. By utilising gates and barriers you can effectively shut down the chances of a speedy approach or escape and thwart their plans.
 
No matter the size or nature of your businesses, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess the security requirements of your organization. For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us on ssaintegrate@gmail.com


Saturday, April 1, 2023

Pros and cons of using drones for perimeter security

Pros and Cons of using Drones for Perimeter security

Physical intrusion in private properties still remains a major concern today. To counter this, people generally resort to video surveillance in combination with other hardware.

According to a report from Markets and Markets, the video surveillance market, which includes both hardware and software, is presently at USD 45.5 billion and is expected to reach USD 74.6 billion by 2025.

These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer a range of benefits over traditional security measures, including improved coverage, faster response times, and reduced costs. For physical security installers, integrating drones into their security solutions can provide a significant competitive advantage and open up new business opportunities.

Perimeter security is an active barrier or fortification around a defined area to prevent all forms of intrusion. Modern security systems are an amalgamation of sophisticated hardware and software that generally include cameras, motion sensors, electric fencing, high-intensity lights, and a command center to manage them all.

Challenges with conventional security systems (without drones) for perimeter security

Below are some of the drawbacks and limitations that are inherent in a conventional security system:

·        CCTV cameras and motion detectors are stationary, thus leaving plenty of room for blind spots.

·        Patrolling requires human guards – for larger areas, this is the least efficient way of securing a premise.

·        Response to an intrusion is delayed since a human responder has to reach the location.

 

5 advantages of using drones for perimeter security

While there are several advantages to using perimeter security drones, customers must know that not every benefit may apply to every vertical. For example, drones may offer better coverage in some cases, but if a site is riddled with obstacles in the form of complex buildings, UAVs may find it difficult to operate. Having said that, here are five benefits:

1. Improved coverage

One of the most significant advantages of using drones for perimeter security is the ability to provide wider coverage of the area being monitored. Drones can fly at various heights and angles, enabling them to capture footage from locations that may be difficult or impossible to reach using traditional security measures. As a result, drones can provide a more comprehensive view of the perimeter and identify potential security threats more effectively.

2. Faster response times

Drones can respond to security incidents much faster than human security personnel. Once a potential threat is detected, the drone can quickly move to the location and assess the situation, providing real-time information to security teams. This enables security personnel to respond more rapidly and effectively, potentially preventing security breaches or minimizing the damage caused by such incidents.

3. Reduced costs

Drones can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional security measures. By using drones, physical security installers can reduce the need for expensive human resources, such as security guards. In addition, drones can provide 24/7 surveillance, reducing the need for multiple security shifts and reducing overall operating costs.

4. Flexibility

Drones can be deployed quickly and easily, making them ideal for providing security in a range of scenarios. They can be used for event security, construction site security, critical infrastructure security, and many other applications. Additionally, drones can be programmed to follow specific flight paths or patrol specific areas, providing increased flexibility and customization.

5. Improved safety

Drones can be used to provide security in hazardous or hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk to human security personnel. For example, drones can monitor areas that are prone to natural disasters, such as flood-prone areas or earthquake-prone regions. This can help to ensure the safety of security personnel and reduce the risk of injury or loss of life.

5 disadvantages of using drones for perimeter security

Although the advantages may outweigh the disadvantages in many verticals, customers need to remain aware that drones have several limitations. At the end of the day, drones are restricted by several factors and optimizing your security operations around these limitations is essential to achieving the best results.

1. Limited flight time

One of the primary limitations of using drones for perimeter security is the limited flight time. Most commercial drones have a flight time of 20-30 minutes, which may not be sufficient for large areas or extended surveillance periods. This means that multiple drones may be required to cover a single perimeter, increasing costs and complexity.

2. Dependence on technology

Drones are highly dependent on technology and may be susceptible to system failures, such as signal loss or malfunctioning equipment. This could compromise the effectiveness of the security system and potentially lead to security breaches.

3. Weather conditions

Many drones are highly sensitive to weather conditions, and high winds, rain, or fog can compromise their effectiveness. This means that they may not be suitable for use in all weather conditions, reducing their overall effectiveness.

4. Privacy concerns

The use of drones for security purposes may raise privacy concerns among individuals in the area being monitored. This could lead to legal challenges or a negative public perception of the security system, which could undermine its effectiveness.

5. Regulatory constraints

The use of drones for security purposes is subject to a range of regulatory constraints, including restrictions on flying in certain areas or operating outside of certain hours. This could limit the effectiveness of the security system or add complexity to its operation. Also, several countries like the US require commercial drone operators to hold valid licenses, which might further increase operational costs.

Conclusion

In short, the use of drones for perimeter security has both advantages and disadvantages. While drones offer improved coverage, faster response times, reduced costs, flexibility, and improved safety, they are also limited by their flight time, dependence on technology, weather conditions, privacy concerns, and regulatory constraints.

Regarding technology, factors to consider also include the type of drone to use. For instance, while remote-controlled drones are popular, several leading companies offer autonomous drones that offer a host of several advantages and disadvantages.

Physical security integrators must carefully evaluate these factors before deciding to add drones into their security solutions. With careful planning and implementation, however, drones can provide a significant competitive advantage and help to enhance the effectiveness of security systems.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: How Drones add a new dimension to perimeter security?

A: Drones are mobile flying machines that can go anywhere. Thus they eliminate blind spots. In the event of an intrusion, a drone can apprehend an intruder real-time fast and send footage realtime to remote viewers.

Q: What impact can drones have on the security industry?

A: Drones have pushed the technology bounds of the security industry. They are making security systems smart and robust, which can tackle all forms of threats.

Q: What are the Uses of drones for perimeter security?

A: Drones are used in conjunction with CCTV cameras and other sensors to apprehend intruders fast and send real-time feedback to remote viewers.

Q: Can we use drone for remote surveillance security purposes?

A: Drones can be remotely controlled using a fleet management system like FlytNow. Such a system allows a user to manage and control multiple drones from a unified dashboard remotely. The user even has access to the live video feed.

Q: What drones are used for security operations?

A: 1. DJI Matrice 200 Series

2. Yuneec H520

3. Parrot Anafi

4. Autel Robotics EVO

5. DJI Inspire 2

6. DJI Phantom 4 Pro

7. Aibotix X6

8. Skydio 2

9. DJI Mavic 2 Pro

10. DJI Mavic Air

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Fenced for Perimeter Protection

Fenced for Perimeter Protection 

Securing a private or public building is a complex issue, right from any perimeter and entrance point to internal asset management. Instead, optimal security solutions can only be achieved by going back to basics, understanding individual environments and integrating security systems to achieve unique requirements.

The 2022 Crime Report from the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) shows that, in the past year, 89% of store staff faced abuse in their job, with 35,000 incidents of violence, 9% those resulting in personal injury.

The perimeter is the first line of defence. It inhibits and delays intruders. Unfortunately, history has taught us that even the most impenetrable perimeter can still be breached.

Therefore, sensitive sites should not be on the fence when it comes to investing in the right security technology for the right application. A genuinely intelligent system is key to a successful security solution.

Delaying the intruder is essential. If it takes a security team five minutes to deploy intervention, but the time to target is three minutes, then a security solution needs to create a delay of at least two minutes. If there are layers in place that take three minutes to penetrate, then the response team will have time to apprehend the perpetrators before they reach their target.

In terms of physical perimeter security, layers of technology should be applied starting with the outer perimeter, such as the fence line; the inner zone perimeter, such as specific buildings or key infrastructure; the building face perimeter, such as the external building shell; and finally, the internal perimeter, such as internal space where restricted access is necessary. Solutions within each layer should help delay, deter, and detect intrusion.

There are a wide range of technologies that make up an intelligent outer perimeter. To deter people from attempting to gain unauthorised access, a site can use signage or physical barriers. Sites requiring a more secure perimeter typically “harden” the physical barrier using high security palisade or welded mesh products. These barriers are designed to delay intruders and serve as a physical deterrent by preventing unauthorised access. Additionally, perimeter fences ensure the safety of the public – protecting people from entering sites where they may unwittingly expose themselves to risk, injury or even death.

However, while many businesses use gates, fencing, and other structures to keep intruders out, these only delay an intrusion. That is why highly secure sites should look to include elevated detection technologies such as monitored pulse, energised fences. A monitored pulse fence both deters and detects criminals or trespassers. A grid of energised wires is often enough to prevent someone from attempting to climb or break through the fence. Monitored pulse fences comply with international safety standards and are designed to deliver a short but safe shock and acts as a highly effective deterrent.

Additional technologies such as full integration with video management systems provides a visual record of events that can be viewed as a live stream and later used as evidence if required. Designing an effective perimeter security solution is a significantly more complex process than it appears at first glance. The consultant, architect, or engineer has many factors they need to consider in the process, including understanding the site requirements and environment, and selecting which technology or combination of technologies will have a direct impact on the success of the system.

For example, a highly secure yet discrete site, where the customer doesn’t want to “advertise” what they do by way of a visually intimidating perimeter, may use discrete technologies such as buried sensors, laser curtains and microwave. The possible intrusion risks balanced against the requirements of the site will determine the type of sensors used – these risks can range from vandalism or protests by activists to criminal theft, espionage, and terrorism.

One of the main requirements from customers when it comes to an intelligent perimeter solution is a high probability of detection and low false alarm rate. For sites requiring higher levels of perimeter protection, like prisons, it is crucial that perimeter security is as sensitive to tampering on the fence line as possible to prevent and detect perimeter breaches. However, a highly sensitive fence line can be subject to false alarms due to factors such as disturbances from wildlife and environmental extremes.

In recent years, there has been a shift to intelligent, integrated perimeter solutions where detailed reporting and configuration can be carried out on the performance of the perimeter technology. While perimeter security is an organisation’s first and arguably best, line of defence, integration with other technologies is key in effectively securing a site. Essentially, a security management system that brings everything together can provide a truly intelligent multi-layered perimeter solution.

An integrated approach provides the control room operator with all the information associated with an attempted attack to their fence line, ultimately assisting with faster response times. On top of that, cyber security threats are becoming a very real risk to perimeter protection and are forcing a rethink in how and what technologies are installed, with a shift towards more intelligent and integrated solutions. An end-to-end approach is vital. A cyber security vulnerability can occur along any of the communication channels, from the fence detector to the device that displays the alarm to the security guard.

Gallagher considers each communication link and device to assure the complete security of a perimeter protection system. Their security solutions are engineered to meet stringent standards that define how high security sites around the world should be protected and are backed by the implementation of government standards to validate their effectiveness. Gallagher undertakes internal and external penetration testing of their products to ensure they are hardened and secured to mitigate the risk of cyber-attacks.

During pandemic, Gallagher supplied perimeter security solutions to ensure protection. Gallagher’s intelligent deterrent and detection technologies continue to be utilised across small to medium commercial and industrial facilities, right through to larger correctional, utility, and high-profile government sites.


Monday, August 1, 2022

Control physical access to rack level

Control physical Access to Rack Level 

In our networked and internet-dependent world, securing personal and business data from theft, hacking and other forms of cybercrime has become an issue of paramount importance – and the world’s data centers, where data has its physical presence, are key points where multiple layers of security need to be established and sustained. Electronic locks offer audit trail reporting capabilities and can also be set up to provide local alerts, including indicator lights, beacons or alarms.

Securing information within the data centre presents heightened physical security and access control challenges. Heavy-duty perimeter security and room level access control prevents access to the building and server rooms, but once inside, data storage equipment may not include that same level of security. In some co-location centres for instance, cabinets containing particularly sensitive data are protected by a chain link fence enclosure; however, these cabinets are still at risk should an unauthorised individual gain access to that enclosure.

For complete physical security, the actual server cabinets should be secured to the same degree as the data centre itself. Verification of credentials for access control and, where required, auditing rack-level access can prevent costly data breaches and stiff penalties for non compliance. Data centre managers can avoid these risks by incorporating intelligent, reliable electronic locking systems at the racklevel to protect access to sensitive information.

Extending physical security to the rack level

Effective rack-level access control systems are specifically designed for server cabinets with a flexible, open architecture that allows them to be easily integrated with any existing security system. An effective physical security system is typically comprised of three key elements: user interface, intelligent lock, and remote control and monitoring. Many data centers focus security efforts on access control to the grounds, the buildings and the secure areas within:

·       Access to the building is often gated, with exterior physical protection elements to secure the entire site and requires a guard to verify and document entry through the gate.

·       Once an individual enters the facility, they typically sign in with a live guard and receive a credential for access to specific areas.

·       In some facilities, access to a specific floor or enclosure area is further controlled by a “man trap” with two sets of doors accessed via an electronic credential, either RFID or biometric.

Electronic access solutions, like electronic locks and latches, offer a modular security solution designed for simple integration into Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) systems and existing server rack enclosure designs.

Electronic Access Solutions (EAS) typically consist of four main components:

·       Electromechanical Lock or Latch– The most critical component of any electronic access system,  this mechanism performs the electromechanical locking or unlocking function upon receipt of a valid electronic signal and provides an output of its status to external monitoring systems.

·       Access Control Device – The access controller acts as the human interface, allowing the electronic lock  to be remotely operated through a variety of options, such as digital keypads, biometrics, RFID readers, and other wireless communication devices such as  BLUETOOTH enabled smartphones and tablets.

·       Remote Monitoring – Electronic access solutions have the unique ability to capture an electronic "signature" for each access attempt. This info, together with additional security and environmental data, can be output to a variety of devices, from simple indicator lights to networked, software-based remote monitoring systems.

·       Manual Override – In some cases, an override system is required to provide access in the event of a system power failure. This override system can be mechanical, providing direct mechanical actuation of the lock, or electrical, providing external power in the event of a system power failure.

The key element of effective rack level electronic access systems is the use of intelligent electronic locks that restrict access through the validation of user credentials. Electronic locks can be integrated with a variety of rack level access control devices, such as digital keypads, RFID card readers, biometric readers and electronic key systems.

Suprema Mobile Access allows you to use your own smartphone as a key to access doors, facilities, and more. By using your smartphone as a credential, managing and using an access card becomes easier, faster, and safer. The smartphone can then send audit trail data wirelessly to the cloud via a cellular or Wi-Fi connection for audit trail reporting. This unique solution provides remote access control without the need for a physical network connection. Mobile Access supports both NFC and BLE for full compatibility with various types of smartphones.

Additionally, maintaining automatic digital documentation is more convenient than manually tracking and recording access. Rather than keeping track of mechanical keys – particularly in a co-location setting – electronic access allows administrators to upload (or delete) electronic credentials from their user database. With networked systems, these updates to the approved list can be made remotely, from anywhere in the world. With cloud-based solutions, this can be accomplished wirelessly, using Bluetooth enabled mobile devices.

Integrating rack level EAS into existing data centers

The entire IT and data center industry must continue to apply every tool available to secure personal and corporate data and applications from identity theft, malware, hijacking and other hacking attacks. Using electronic access solutions to secure the server racks is the final component in creating a fully secure data center. Rack level electronic access provides a controlled physical security solution that, when integrated into existing security and monitoring systems, provides a complete end-to-end data center security solution.

Cost-effective rack level security solutions are available, depending on the specific application. For example

·       Self-contained solutions that are generally battery-operated and offer simple, drop-in installation and programming to provide integrated access control and electronic locking in a single self-contained device.

·       Standalone solutions that offer basic plug-and-play access control without the need for software or network administration where remote control and monitoring is not needed.

·       Wireless remote controlled solutions that leverage NFC and BLE connectivity with cloud based web portal credential management and monitoring to provide the simplicity of a standalone system with the benefits of a networked control system

·       Integrated solutions that can be combined with building access control and monitoring systems to incorporate cabinet-level access control into existing security systems.

·       Independent networked solutions that can be used to monitor and manage rack access across networks from a host computer for remote system configuration, access control and the monitoring of multiple access points.

Streamlining migration between platforms

Rack-level electronic locks may incorporate an RFID reader with industry standard Wiegand outputs that can tie into any traditional building system. When integrating rack-level access control solutions, there may be a need to support both proximity and smart card RFID protocols. By integrating an industry standardised electronic locking and access control solution that reads multiple RFID formats, data centre managers can leverage their existing building security system for rack-level access control regardless of card technology used. This type of solution offers simplified installation, allowing personnel to use their existing credentials to access multiple areas within the data centre – from the server room to the rack level.

Physical access control across the facility

In today’s highly regulated data centre environment, access control and monitoring at the rack level are a must. While significant resources are dedicated to fighting online cyberattacks, physical protection of stored data is equally as important. The need for increased security and compliance with a myriad of regulations necessitate access control and monitoring capabilities for the actual cabinets where data is stored.

Data centre managers can achieve physical access control by implementing electronic access solutions, which offer solutions for audit trail maintenance and compatibility with existing facility-wide security systems. Protecting data within facilities requires the same level of access control for racks as the buildings that house them.

Organizations should monitor the safety and security of the data center rack room with authenticated access through the following systems:

·        Closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera surveillance with video retention as per the organization policy

·        Vigilance by means of 24×7 on-site security guards and manned operations of the network system with a technical team

·        Periodic hardware maintenance

·        Checking and monitoring the access control rights regularly and augmenting if necessary

·        Controlling and monitoring temperature and humidity through proper control of air conditioning and indirect cooling

·        Uninterruptible power supply (UPS)

·        Provision of both a fire alarm system and an aspirating smoke detection system (e.g., VESDA) in a data center. A VESDA, or aspiration, system detects and alerts personnel before a fire breaks out and should be considered for sensitive areas.

·        Water leakage detector panel to monitor for any water leakage in the server room

·        Rodent repellent system in the data center. It works as an electronic pest control to prevent rats from destroying servers and wires.

·        Fire protection systems with double interlock. On actuation of both the detector and sprinkler, water is released into the pipe. To protect the data and information technology (IT) equipment, fire suppression shall be with a zoned dry-pipe sprinkler.

·        Cable network through a raised floor, which avoids overhead cabling, reduces the heat load in the room, and is aesthetically appealing.

 

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

10 Tips for Planning Perimeter Security



With inexpensive options and the improvements in technology against false alarms, more and more dealers and systems integrators are expanding their security to the perimeter. While interior protection will always be a part of a complete intrusion detection system, perimeter security allows end users, on-site guards and remote monitoring centers to know the moment an intruder steps onto the property. Below are ten tips to remember when planning a successful perimeter security system:
Stay current with technology. Your manufacturers should provide in house training at your office for your sales and installation teams at no cost while updating you on trends, technology, and the latest equipment. Successful dealers work directly with the manufacturer's sales personnel to help design, propose, train, and even close your projects for you. Including your manufacturer in the sales process, including sales calls, will lend you instant credibility and close more sales all at no cost to you.
Assess how your client intends to use the site. Make sure that your client understands how the products you are recommending work. This will help to avoid any future problems such as the client moving things around the site and accidentally blocking AIR paths or creating dead spots in front of PIR detectors.
Become certified. Many times a manufacturer will provide certification training on higher-end perimeter detectors at no cost. This not only allows you to become familiar with the product and its applications, it gives you the opportunity to offer more options to the client.
Use the tools available to you. If the manufacturer has tools/appliances recommended to use during set-up, use them. Not only will they make sure the products are set-up/calibrated correctly, they are often a huge time saver during the installation process.
Confirm your design/site plan with the manufacturer. It's important to do this before quoting your customer. Oftentimes the manufacturer will find something you missed or ways to save you money with a different design.
Use recommended manufacturing mounting hardware and accessories. When bundled with photobeam towers, premier manufacturers will mount and assemble your perimeter detectors at no additional cost. This allows for a tremendous amount of savings on labor and opportunity cost. The cost of driving to your local hardware store and standing in line to buy simple items can be saved many times over by having the manufacturer assemble and ship your equipment directly to your job site. This also provides a professional look to your installation.
Go wireless! Eliminate the additional expense of costly labor and wiring to gain more jobs and provide a better-designed system. There are many options for reliable wireless detection for outdoor/perimeter applications.
Utilize video monitoring/verification where possible. When you're dealing with outdoor systems, legitimate activations by an animal or person can often be considered "false alarms" when there is no evidence as the police or client responds 30 minutes later. The majority of photobeam and PIR detectors can easily be set up to trigger a camera.
Strategize and plan your detection coverage. Use redundant measures for true security such as double stacking your photoelectric beams to keep intruders from “jumping over” or crawling under. Along with protecting the perimeter, use rugged outdoor high mount PIR detectors with false alarm prevention technology for spot protection – they are low cost, reliable, and provide a interior trap.
Verify your perimeter's limitations. For example, when using Photobeams as a perimeter, make sure you have enough space between the wall or fence and the detector so that an intruder cannot jump over the beam and bypass the perimeter. If using PIR devices as your perimeter, allow yourself ample room to make sure there will be no bleed-thru beyond the fence line. 
Following these simple tips can mean the difference between a problem free perimeter security system and one that will cause headaches for you and your client. With the assistance of a quality manufacturer and advancement of new technologies, there is no reason to not have a successful install.