Critical infrastructure such as data centres requires security concepts that go beyond traditional monitoring. In this interview, Georgij Sieloff, Executive Director of PSA Sicherheitsmanagement GmbH, explains why physical security, trained staff and measurable operational quality are crucial for resilient digital infrastructure. The focus is on specialised security solutions for demanding environments where reliability, responsiveness and traceability are particularly important.
Critical infrastructure is increasingly the focus of security and resilience strategies. What role does physical security play in this?
Physical security is a central component of any robust resilience strategy. Particularly in critical infrastructure, such as data centre and corporate security environments, it is not enough to rely solely on technical systems. It is crucial that technology, processes and people on site interact effectively. PSA therefore views security as an integrated operational system: staff must be able to assess situations correctly, follow reporting chains and respond appropriately. This results in security concepts that not only work on paper but are also resilient in everyday practice.
How do the requirements of technology-driven companies differ from traditional security requirements?
Today, technology-driven companies do not expect a traditional security service, but a professionally managed security operation. This includes clear interfaces, documented procedures, transparent escalation pathways and robust reporting. Security is viewed in much the same way as a critical operational process:
it must be available, traceable and stable. At PSA, we attach great importance to measurable security quality, for example through stable staffing, low absence rates and rapid replacement provision. A figure of less than one per cent for so-called âdropped hoursâ demonstrates that our operational reliability is not merely an assertion, but is verified on an ongoing basis.
Technologies such as drone detection or modern perimeter protection are gaining in importance. What is particularly important when deploying them?
What is particularly important when deploying them?Modern technologies such as drone detection, sensor systems or perimeter protection are key components for safeguarding sensitive sites. However, their full benefits are only realised once it is clearly defined what happens following a detection. There must be clear protocols regarding who assesses the situation, who responds, who is informed and how the incident is documented. We therefore always consider such technologies in conjunction with trained staff, clear processes and coordinated reporting channels. Only then do technical security measures become operationally effective in an emergency.
What role do staff play in particularly sensitive security environments such as critical infrastructure?
Even in highly technologised security environments, people remain a decisive factor in quality. Mere physical presence is not enough; what is required is responsibility, sound judgement, process reliability and communication skills. Particularly at critical sites, staff must be able to cope with stress, possess a good understanding of service and be able to grasp technical contexts. We therefore focus on targeted staff selection, project-specific onboarding and regular training. This reduces errors, increases responsiveness and, at the same time, improves the quality of collaboration with customers.
Why is PSA involved in the eco Association, and what contribution does the company wish to make to the debate on digital resilience?
Through our membership of the eco Association, we aim to further integrate the perspective of physical and operational security into the debate on digital infrastructure. After all, digital infrastructure is only resilient if site protection, access processes, staff quality and responsiveness also function reliably. Within the eco network, we can make this connection more visible and help shape the discussion on practical security requirements. As a specialist boutique firm, PSA stands for short decision-making processes, proximity to clients and measurably effective security in everyday life. In this way, modern security protects not only sites, but also availability, trust, reputation and investments.
