Model Physical Security System Combining Human and Electronic Resources

Analysis of the Air Force physical security system shows inherent weaknesses, primarily as a result of over-dependence upon the use of human sentries posted to provide initial detection of hostile acts directed against the protected resources. In Part One, the human sentry is analyzed, to include external factors related to his job performance, measurements of his job dissatisfaction, factors which may be related to his dissatisfaction, and qualitative measurements of his overall efficiency at detecting threats to the resources he protects. In Part Two, the Air Force's decision to rely on sensors for the detection function is supported by a review of the technological state of electronic security devices, and their applicability to Air Force security requirements. Part Two concludes with a discussion of electronic sensors currently programmed for Air Force utilization. Part Three of the paper presents a proposed model of a physical security system combining human and electronic resources.