Prison Security: A multi-technology approach

The recent escape of an Italian mob boss from the maximum-security prison in Sardinia last February brings us back to the topic of prison security. This is a complex theme that can be approached from different perspectives, including that of physical security.

There have been several cases in which an inmate has managed to escape; the case of Raduano represents only the latest of these. While it is certain that escape from correctional institutions is something that has always been witnessed, it is also well-known how anti-intrusion and anti-escape technologies have greatly improved over time.

Physical security in prisons

In prisons, most physical security is deployed in perimeters and boundaries, particularly entry and exit points. Exterior walls, fences, and video surveillance systems are not enough to secure the perimeter and prevent escape. It was the CCTV system that captured the scene of the escape: Marco Raduano, after constructing a homemade rope out of bed sheets, escaped by lowering himself from a height of at least 5m. He then gained his way out of the prison house by passing under the metal fence and disappearing from the cameras.

The importance of accurate detection can’t be undervalued in prison security systems. Early detection is critical to identify and prevent security threats, it can ensure prompt intervention by prison personnel and prevent an authorised person from trying to enter, or an inmate from trying to escape.

An effective security system combines different detection technologies to provide different levels of protection in different areas of the site. Prisons are complex environments and designing the right security system requires careful consideration of multiple areas, including:

1) Roofs and facades

2) Open spaces such as walking squares, patios, and surrounding areas

3) Perimeter

2) Open spaces such as walking squares, patios, and surrounding areas

OPTEX's continuous research, development, and experience enables a deep understanding of security systems, and how depending on a single technology to provide an entire security solution, including detection, monitoring, and categorization, is often not enough.

3) PERIMETER

Detecting unwanted movement in the prison perimeter helps detect any suspicious activity in the outer areas and provides early warning of potential threats, whether it is an unauthorised person trying to enter, or an inmate trying to escape. OPTEX has a broad portfolio of perimeter solutions to accurately detect the location of intrusion/evaders and alert CCTV and off-site security management before they have a chance to leave the site.

OPTEX Fiber SenSys can be used for fenced perimeters ranging from 50m to over 100km in length. It is also designed to perform stably in harsh weather and is equipped with algorithms to detect the type of event happening. For instance, climbing the fence, cutting through, or digging underneath. The newest fibre optic sensor solution, EchoPoint (launching very soon) allows both fence applications, buried applications, and hybrid (fence & buried), providing an extra layer of detection to the security system.

REDSCAN Pro LiDAR sensors can create high-resolution virtual laser walls and planes to protect walls, perimeters, buildings, and roofs. Through built-in data detection analysis, the sensors can detect and recognize the size, speed, and distance of a moving object, and accurately pinpoint the exact location of one or more intruders, and enable a prompt and appropriate response.

Conclusion

By combining different technologies and protecting different spaces, the wider security system can benefit from different strengths and complement each other so that facilities and resources are more secure now and in the future. Having different levels of protection and different technologies for detecting unwanted movement can certainly make a prison physically more secure.