As a Swiss Trust Service Provider that is subject to comprehensive regulations, we explain the objectives and components of a successful ISMS based on our own experience.

In an increasingly digitalised world, many companies focus primarily on cybersecurity. Firewalls, encryption and access controls dominate security discussions. But what good is the best IT security if unauthorised persons have physical access to office premises and can get hold of an unlocked laptop? As a certificate authority and trust service provider with over ten audits a year, we know that physical security is not a nice-to-have, but business-critical. It not only protects tangible assets, but is a central component of a holistic, integrated security concept.

Definition and significance of physical security

Physical security refers to the protection of people, buildings, facilities and material assets from physical damage. This includes protection against human influences such as burglary, theft or sabotage, as well as natural disasters or technical failures.

The aim is to ensure the long-term functioning of an organisation, the safety of its employees and the integrity of sensitive data and processes. Environmental protection is also increasingly seen as part of physical security – for example, through the safe handling of hazardous substances or structural preventive measures. The concept of sustainability plays an important role in raising employee awareness of how to use natural resources, both in terms of consumption and disposal.

Typical threats at a glance

Threats to physical security can be divided into two main categories:

Human threats

• Theft: theft of valuables, devices, documents or IT equipment

• Sabotage and vandalism: deliberate damage or destruction of infrastructure, systems or facilities

• Unauthorised access: Access to sensitive areas without authorisation, often through social engineering or the use of unauthorised access media

• Internal threats: Security-related errors or intentional actions by your own employees or service providers

• Social unrest: widespread public protests or demonstrations that can lead to property damage

Natural and environmental threats

• Fire: Fires caused by technical defects, negligent behaviour or external influences

• Water damage: Flooding, burst pipes or firefighting water

• Extreme environmental conditions: Heat, cold, dust, electromagnetic fields or earthquakes

• Environmental hazards: Release of pollutants or improper storage of hazardous substances

• Climate change: Shift in hazard zones, meaning that regions that were previously considered safe may suddenly be threatened by extreme weather events

Physical security measures

An effective security concept is based on the interaction of organisational, structural and technical measures. These must be coordinated and reviewed regularly.

Organisational measures

Regular risk assessment is the basis of all physical security. Only those who know their threat situation can take appropriate protective measures. Key organisational elements are:

• Access regulations: Clearly defined authorisation concepts with visitor management and escort requirements

• Employee training: Regular awareness-raising for security-conscious behaviour

• Emergency management: Documented processes for various scenarios, including evacuation plans

• Environmental management: Training on the economical use of resources such as water, paper and electricity

• Clear desk policy: Obligation to tidy up sensitive documents outside working hours

Technical measures

Modern security technology complements and reinforces organisational and structural measures:

• Video surveillance: For deterrence and subsequent investigation of incidents

• Burglar alarm systems: Motion detectors, glass break sensors, vibration detectors

• Access logs: Electronic recording and evaluation of all accesses

• Environmental sensors: Monitoring of temperature, humidity, smoke and gases

• Secure storage: Safes, lockable cabinets, encrypted data carriers

The role of physical security in corporate security

Physical security is not an isolated issue, but a central component of integrated security and holistic risk management. It protects not only material assets, but also people, business-critical processes, data and, ultimately, trust in the organisation itself.

Interconnection with other areas of security

The importance of physical security is particularly evident in its integration with other security disciplines:

• IT security: Physical controls prevent direct access to hardware and data carriers

• Data protection: Appropriate technical and organisational measures also cover physical aspects

• Business continuity: Protection against physical threats ensures business continuity

• Compliance: Many standards and laws explicitly require physical security measures

Special requirements for sensitive areas

For organisations with particularly high security requirements – such as certificate authorities, banks or critical infrastructures – physical security is business-critical. A security incident can have far-reaching consequences here:

• Loss of customer trust

• Compliance violations with legal consequences

• Financial losses due to business interruptions

• Threat to national security in critical infrastructures

Legal requirements and standards

Various national and international regulations define physical security requirements. Here is a non-exhaustive overview

International standards

• ISO/IEC 27001: The leading standard for information security management systems contains comprehensive requirements for physical and environmental security.

• ISO 22301: Business continuity management with a focus on maintaining critical processes

• ETSI 319.401 : Special requirements for industrial automation and control systems

Swiss regulations

• Data Protection Act (DSG): Obligation to take appropriate technical and organisational measures

• EKAS guidelines: Requirements for occupational safety and health protection

• USG and StFV: Environmental Protection Act and Ordinance on Major Accidents for Companies Handling Hazardous Substances

• NIN: Low-voltage installation standard for electrical safety

Industry-specific requirements

Additional specific requirements apply depending on the industry. Certificate authorities, for example, must comply with standards such as WebTrust or the eIDAS Regulation, which contain detailed specifications on physical security.

Challenges in practice

Despite its obvious importance, physical security is still neglected in many organisations. Typical weaknesses include:

Organisational challenges

• Lack of awareness: Employees underestimate risks or circumvent security measures for convenience

• Unclear responsibilities: Lack of accountability for physical security

• Budget restrictions: Investments in physical security are postponed

• Lack of integration: Physical and IT security operate in silos

Technical and structural challenges

• Outdated systems: Old locking systems or surveillance technology without updates

• Maintenance backlogs: Neglect of regular checks and maintenance

• Incompatible systems: Different security systems that do not communicate with each other

• Structural limitations: Existing buildings are often difficult to retrofit

Environmental and sustainability aspects

An often neglected area is the integration of environmental protection into physical security:

• Waste of resources: Lack of economical use of water, energy and materials

• Improper disposal: No structured waste separation or secure destruction of data carriers

• Hazardous substance management: Inadequate storage and handling of hazardous substances

Best practices for effective physical security

The following best practices have proven themselves in practice, particularly from the perspective of highly regulated industries such as trust service providers:

1. Holistic security approach

Physical security must not be viewed in isolation. Integrated security management combines:

• Physical controls

• IT security measures

• Organisational processes

• Employee behaviour

2. Risk-based approach

Not all areas require the same level of security. A differentiated approach saves resources and increases acceptance:

• Regular risk analyses

• Protective measures tailored to protection requirements

• Cost-benefit analysis for investments

3. Continuous improvement

Security is not a state, but a process:

• Regular audits and penetration tests

• Evaluation of incidents and near misses

• Adaptation to new threats

• Integration of lessons learned

4. Employees as a security factor

Even the best technology fails if employees circumvent it:

• Regular training and awareness campaigns

• Practical exercises (evacuation, tailgating tests)

• Positive safety culture instead of a culture of fear

• Clear, understandable guidelines

5. Redundancy and resilience

Critical systems require multiple safeguards:

• Backup systems for access control

• Redundant power supply

• Alternative communication channels

• Alternative locations for critical processes

6. Integrate sustainability

Modern physical security takes environmental aspects into account:

• Energy-efficient security technology

• Structured waste separation

• Safe and environmentally friendly disposal

• Awareness of resource conservation

Practical implementation: A step-by-step plan

For organisations looking to improve their physical security, we recommend the following approach:

Step 1: Inventory

• Record all physical assets

• Document existing security measures

• Identify vulnerabilities

Step 2: Risk analysis

• Evaluate potential threats

• Assessment of the probability of occurrence

• Analysis of potential impacts

Step 3: Concept development

• Definition of security zones

• Determination of appropriate protective measures

• Creation of an implementation plan

Step 4: Implementation

• Step-by-step implementation according to priorities

• Training of employees

• Documentation of all measures

Step 5: Monitoring and optimisation

• Regular checks and tests

• Evaluation of incidents

• Continuous adaptation

The future of physical security

Physical security is constantly evolving. Current trends include:

• Intelligent building technology: AI-supported video analysis and predictive maintenance

• Biometric systems: Increasing use of facial recognition and other biometric methods

• Integration with cybersecurity: Convergence of physical and digital security systems

• Focus on sustainability: Greater consideration of environmental aspects in security concepts

Conclusion: Physical security as a success factor – more than just locks and cameras

Physical security is a fundamental component of corporate security. It not only protects property, but also ensures business continuity, meets regulatory requirements and maintains the trust of customers and partners.

An effective physical security concept requires more than just technology – it needs a well-thought-out combination of organisational, structural and technical measures, supported by a culture of security that is lived and breathed. Modern approaches should also take sustainability aspects into account and view physical security as part of a holistic risk management strategy. For organisations with special security requirements – such as certificate authorities or other trust service providers – excellent physical security is not a nice-to-have, but business-critical. Experience from numerous audits shows that the key to success lies in continuous improvement and the consistent implementation of proven best practices.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

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