Get Involved With SIA’s Perimeter Security Terminology Working Group at ISC West

security gate
Robert Miller headshot
Robert Miller, owner at Imperial Professional Consulting, is chair of SIA’s Perimeter Security Terminology Working Group.

As companies increase their investment in physical security, the need to better define product performance terminology has also increased. For example, what exactly does “anti-climb” mean? Is there such a thing as “non-climb”?   

To answer this and other important questions, please join the Security Industry Association (SIA) Perimeter Security Technology Working Group at ISC West on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) in Casanova 507. You will have the opportunity to review the working group’s draft document defining core terminology, offer input and support the effort to better the security industry.

Brice Sloan headshot
Brice Sloan, co-founder and CEO at Sloan Security Group, Inc., is vice chair of SIA’s Perimeter Security Terminology Working Group.

Some history behind this effort: In 2022, the SIA Perimeter Security Subcommittee formed the Perimeter Security Terminology Working Group in response to the growing need to provide better definitions of threat vectors perimeter security fence products may face and define the necessary product characteristics designed to address those threats.  

Together, the group has identified more than 20 unique threat vectors and over 10 constructive characteristics that are utilized when using referring to high security fence products. From this effort to carefully define performance criteria, an immediate benefit is that industry professionals will be able to better market and install the appropriate products that meet the expectations and needs of an end user.   

Here are some examples of discussed terminology.

Barrier characteristics:

  • Finish height
  • Infills
  • Passive appurtenances (spinners, barbs, etc…)
  • Material composition
  • Conductive
  • Opacity
  • Airflow

Threat vector considerations:

  • Airflow allowance
  • Hostile vehicle mitigation
  • Nuisance critters
  • Combustible resistance
  • Blast resistance
  • Intrusion detection

If your business is impacted by these terms, come make your voice heard on March 30!