Site Security Assessment Checklist: 75+ Points for Comprehensive Evaluation

A thorough security assessment identifies vulnerabilities before they become incidents. This 75+ point checklist covers physical security, access control, surveillance, emergency preparedness, and operational procedures for any facility type.

How to Use This Checklist

For each item, assign a rating:

• ✓ Adequate: Meets security requirements
• △ Needs Improvement: Functional but could be enhanced
• ✗ Deficient: Significant security gap exists
• N/A: Not applicable to this site

1. Perimeter Security (12 Points)

Fencing & Barriers

• ☐ Perimeter fence in good condition (no gaps, holes, or damage)
• ☐ Fence height adequate for threat level (typically 7-8 ft minimum)
• ☐ Anti-climb measures installed (barbed wire, rotating toppers) where appropriate
• ☐ Vehicle barriers at entrances (bollards, planters, gates)
• ☐ No climbable objects near fence line (dumpsters, trees, pallets)

Gates & Entry Points

• ☐ All gates lockable and in good working order
• ☐ Vehicle gates have anti-tailgating measures
• ☐ Pedestrian gates separate from vehicle entry where possible
• ☐ Emergency vehicle access maintained

Perimeter Monitoring

• ☐ Clear sightlines along perimeter (vegetation maintained)
• ☐ Perimeter lighting adequate (no dark spots)
• ☐ CCTV coverage of perimeter and entry points

2. Building Exterior (10 Points)

Doors

• ☐ All exterior doors solid-core or metal construction
• ☐ Door frames reinforced (anti-pry plates installed)
• ☐ Hinges on secure side (interior) or have non-removable pins
• ☐ All doors close and latch properly
• ☐ Emergency exits alarmed and cannot be opened from outside
• ☐ Loading dock doors secured when not in use

Windows

• ☐ Ground floor windows have locks or security film
• ☐ No windows left open/unsecured after hours
• ☐ Skylights and roof access points secured

Other Openings

• ☐ Utility openings (HVAC, vents) secured against entry
• ☐ Roof access secured (locked hatches, ladder guards)

3. Access Control (15 Points)

Entry Systems

• ☐ Access control system installed at appropriate entry points
• ☐ Credential type appropriate for security level (cards, fobs, biometric)
• ☐ Anti-passback or tailgating prevention measures
• ☐ Access levels defined by area sensitivity
• ☐ Visitor credentials distinguishable from employee credentials

Credential Management

• ☐ Process for issuing new credentials documented
• ☐ Timely deactivation of lost/stolen credentials
• ☐ Terminated employee credentials deactivated immediately
• ☐ Temporary/contractor credentials have expiration dates
• ☐ Regular audit of active credentials conducted

Key Control

• ☐ Master key system with limited distribution
• ☐ Key log maintained with sign-out procedures
• ☐ Key audit conducted regularly
• ☐ Locks rekeyed when keys are lost or unreturned
• ☐ High-security areas use restricted keyways

4. Surveillance Systems (10 Points)

Camera Coverage

• ☐ All entry/exit points covered
• ☐ Parking areas covered
• ☐ Loading dock and delivery areas covered
• ☐ High-value or sensitive areas covered
• ☐ Stairwells and elevators covered
• ☐ No blind spots in critical areas

System Quality

• ☐ Camera resolution adequate for identification (not just detection)
• ☐ Night vision or IR capability where needed
• ☐ Recording system functional with adequate storage
• ☐ Retention period meets legal/policy requirements

5. Lighting (8 Points)

• ☐ Parking lots: Minimum 1-2 foot-candles at ground level
• ☐ Building entrances: Well-lit, no shadows
• ☐ Perimeter: Continuous lighting, no dark gaps
• ☐ Stairwells: Adequate lighting at all landings
• ☐ Emergency lighting: Functional backup on generator/battery
• ☐ Burned out lights: Replaced promptly (maintenance process exists)
• ☐ Lighting protected from vandalism where accessible
• ☐ Motion-activated lights in low-traffic areas

6. Alarm Systems (8 Points)

• ☐ Intrusion detection covers all perimeter doors
• ☐ Motion sensors in interior areas (after hours)
• ☐ Glass break sensors on vulnerable windows
• ☐ Panic/duress buttons at appropriate locations
• ☐ Alarm monitoring: 24/7 central station or in-house
• ☐ Response procedures documented and tested
• ☐ Regular testing of all sensors (documented)
• ☐ False alarm reduction measures in place

7. Fire & Life Safety (10 Points)

• ☐ Fire alarm system functional and tested regularly
• ☐ Sprinkler system operational (where installed)
• ☐ Fire extinguishers: Proper type, inspected, accessible
• ☐ Emergency exits: Marked, unobstructed, functional
• ☐ Exit signs: Illuminated, visible from all areas
• ☐ Emergency lighting: Tested and functional
• ☐ Evacuation routes: Posted and current
• ☐ Assembly areas: Designated and communicated
• ☐ Fire drills: Conducted at required intervals
• ☐ AED locations: Accessible and maintained

8. Security Operations (12 Points)

Staffing & Coverage

• ☐ Staffing levels appropriate for site size and risk
• ☐ Coverage maintained during breaks and shift changes
• ☐ Response times to incidents are acceptable

Documentation

• ☐ Post orders current and accessible
• ☐ Emergency procedures documented
• ☐ Incident reports completed properly
• ☐ Daily activity logs maintained
• ☐ Visitor logs complete and legible

Communication

• ☐ Radio communication functional throughout site
• ☐ Emergency contact lists current
• ☐ Chain of command documented
• ☐ Communication with local law enforcement established

9. Employee & Visitor Management (8 Points)

• ☐ Employee ID badges issued and worn
• ☐ Badge challenge culture established
• ☐ Visitor sign-in procedures enforced
• ☐ Visitor badges distinguishable and collected upon departure
• ☐ Escort policy for visitors in sensitive areas
• ☐ Contractor/vendor credentialing process exists
• ☐ Background checks conducted for employees with access
• ☐ Terminated employee access removal process exists

10. Information & Asset Protection (7 Points)

• ☐ Sensitive documents secured (locked cabinets, clean desk policy)
• ☐ Computer screens positioned away from public view
• ☐ Server/data rooms have restricted access
• ☐ Shredding/secure disposal available for sensitive documents
• ☐ Laptop locks or secured storage available
• ☐ Inventory of high-value assets maintained
• ☐ Package/mail screening procedures (where warranted)

Risk Rating Matrix

After completing the checklist, categorize deficiencies:

Assessment Report Format

The final assessment report should include:

1. Executive Summary: Overall security posture and top priorities
2. Methodology: How the assessment was conducted
3. Findings by Category: Detailed observations for each section
4. Recommendations: Prioritized list with estimated costs
5. Implementation Timeline: Suggested phasing of improvements
6. Appendices: Photos, diagrams, detailed checklists