Electronic Physical Security Toolbox, Missoula Technology and Development Center MTDC Home

Contact
skip to main page contenttransparent spacer image Physical
Security Basics
Threat &
Vulnerability
Assessment
Facility
Planning
Deterrents Alarm
Systems &
Sensors
Video & Access
Control Systems
transparent spacer image decorative graphic
Physical Security Home
Deterrents
Barriers
Fences and Gates
Door Assemblies
Locks
Glazing
Interior Walls and Ceilings
Lighting for Safety and Security
Types of Lighting
Design
Considerations
right arrow graphic right arrow graphic
Properties of Security Lighting

Design Considerations

Certain areas require carefully designed lighting. These areas include parking lots, exterior entrances and exits, and open yards and storage areas.

While security lighting is a detection tool, it is also crucial for other detection systems such as CCTV. Lighting intended specifically to enhance CCTV coverage must be designed for that purpose. It is less expensive to design the lighting to the requirements needed for CCTV than to try to compensate for inadequate lighting by purchasing expensive cameras and lenses. Factors that must be considered when designing lighting specifically for CCTV are:

  • Each camera’s field of view
  • Lighting intensity levels
  • Maximum light-to-dark ratio in the camera’s field of view
  • Scene reflectance
  • Daylight-to-darkness transitions
  • Camera mounting systems relative to light sources
  • The camera's spectral response
  • The light’s cold-start time
  • The light’s restrike time

Objects and areas that are the most likely targets of intruders or attackers need to have appropriate lighting. Likewise, potential intrusion points such as gates, doors, windows, venting louvers, and delivery hatches should be considered for special lighting that will serve your purpose, not the intruder’s.

Particularly in metropolitan areas, you need to be concerned about the direction and intensity of your lighting. Your lighting should not be creating problems for your neighbors. Many areas are adopting “light pollution” ordinances.


Top


Back | Next

Physical Security Toolbox Home

T&D Home

USDA Forest Service, Technology and Development
Last Modified: 03/30/2013 03:28:07