Some advantages gained by sharing the capabilities of the security system with site operations (U)

Security control and communication systems have become capable, powerful, and very expensive. Oftentimes the security function has been seen by site operations as not only a bother but also a competitor for scarce funds. We recognized a non-security problem being faced by operations, namely providing a precise system of emergency accountability of evacuated personnel under tight cost and schedule constraints. Our security control system could do this as an extension of its logical presence attendance function without degrading its security posture. By a combination of willingness, resourcefulness, and energy the security community extended and modified the security control and communication system within its basic capabilities. Operations' need was met, cost and schedule constraints were observed, and the security function became a tangible resource to benefit operations. Additional ways are being investigated to provide more benefits to operations by making use of the enrolment database and access control capabilities of the security control system. Some modifications made to the security system promise to improve effectiveness of the security function as a bonus.<>