As we move into September and workplaces return to full activity following the summer period, it’s a good opportunity to revisit the fundamentals of physical security.
The UK national terrorism threat level is currently SEVERE, meaning an attack is assessed as highly likely. While many organisations may not view themselves as direct targets, maintaining strong security awareness and robust site security practices remains essential for protecting people, premises, and operations.
Physical Security Starts With Everyday Actions
Effective security is rarely about a single measure. Instead, it relies on consistent behaviours and a culture where everyone takes responsibility for keeping their workplace safe.
This month, consider focusing on five simple but important actions:
- Be Alert to Unusual Activity
Trust your instincts. Unfamiliar individuals, unusual behaviour, or activity that appears out of place should be reported promptly through the appropriate channels.
- Challenge Tailgating
Every person entering a controlled area should use their own access pass. Politely challenging individuals who follow others through secure doors helps maintain the integrity of access controls.
- Wear and Display Identification
Visible identification allows colleagues, visitors, and authorised personnel to quickly recognise who should be on site and identify anyone who may require assistance or validation.
- Secure Sensitive Areas
Keep doors, cabinets, and restricted areas locked when not in use. Physical barriers remain one of the most effective security controls available.
- Report Lost Passes Immediately
A lost access card or key should always be treated as a security incident. Prompt reporting enables access rights to be revoked before they can be misused.
A Reminder on Martyn’s Law
With the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, now forming an important consideration for organisations that manage publicly accessible locations, September is a good time to ask a simple question:
Are any of your sites captured by the Standard Tier requirements?
This may apply not only to facilities you directly manage, but also to locations situated within shared premises, such as business parks, shopping centres, mixed-use developments, healthcare hubs, or multi-occupancy buildings. Organisations should understand who is responsible for compliance, what arrangements are in place, and whether appropriate protective security measures have been considered.
Even where legal requirements may not apply, the principles of good protective security, preparedness, and staff awareness remain valuable for all organisations.
Security Tip of the Month
“See it. Challenge it. Report it.”
Many incidents are prevented because someone notices something unusual and takes action. If something doesn’t look right, don’t assume someone else will deal with it.
Final Thought
Physical security is not just the responsibility of facilities managers or designated personnel. Every employee contributes to protecting people, premises, and assets. By remaining vigilant and following established security procedures, we all help create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
Need Advice or Support?
If you would like guidance on physical security, protective security measures, Martyn’s Law readiness, site security reviews, or organisational resilience, please contact the TIAA Security Advisory Team, who will be happy to provide support and practical advice tailored to your organisation’s needs.
Source information – Threat Levels | MI5 – The Security Service
Terrorism and national emergencies: Terrorism threat levels – GOV.UK
TIAA’s Security Advisory Services are here to help. Our experts can guide you through the practical, ethical, and operational aspects of deploying advanced surveillance solutions, ensuring compliance, resilience, and peace of mind. Contact us today to explore tailored strategies that protect your people, assets, and reputation.
Jonathan Gladwin, Director – Security Advisory
Carver Tedstone, Managing Consultant Security Advisory
To view the previous blogs in the series please visit TIAA Blogs