When persons approach the access control point they are stopped. Positive identification is required.
The identification is checked against an access roster. The access roster is provided by the officer in
charge of the facility. Anyone attempting to enter the facility who is not on the access roster is
detained. Facility personnel designated in the guard orders or SOP are notified. The officer in charge
of the facility, or his designated representative, will determine what to do with the individual. Specific
instructions for this type of occurrence must be included in the guard orders.
Some facilities may also use a badge system. This may be in addition to or in place of the access
roster. Other facilities may use various combinations of entry systems. Whatever system is used must
be specified in the access point SOP and/or guard orders, which must also include contingency orders.
Location. An access control point is located near the entrance to the facility. No one should be able to
enter the facility without going through
Physical Layout. The facility will be located within its own perimeter. Barriers and guard posts will be
used to deny access to the facility anywhere but through the access control point. The physical layout
of the access control point will be dictated by its location. The access control point should include a
fighting position for the machinegun.
This position must offer good fields of fire. It also must have an unobstructed view of the approach to
the facility. When friendly units are within range of the machinegun, rifles and pistols should be used.
All such fires must be coordinated in the total defensive plan of the CP. The rules of engagement must
be very explicit and included in the guard orders.
Personnel. Normally an access control point is manned by three MP. One MP checks identification;
one provides security; and the third is the relief.
Equipment and Communications. Military police operating an access control point will carry their
normal combat load. Additional equipment must at least include flashlights. Night vision devices
should also be used when possible. Communications should be established with personnel inside the
facility. This is usually done by land line. Alternate means of communication must also be provided.
Communications must also be maintained with the platoon headquarters. This should also be by land
line, with provisions for alternate means.
Guard Posts
Functions. Guard posts are established to prevent unauthorized entry to an area. Military police at
guard posts detect persons attempting to penetrate the perimeter, or who have somehow avoided the
access control point.
Guard posts are fixed, walking, or a combination of the two. MP on posts avoid following a pattern.
Within the limits of the post, they avoid following a set route. The key is to avoid establishing a pattern
of either time or route. Any potential intruder must be kept guessing. During halts, MP place
themselves so as to be able to observe as much of the facility and perimeter as possible.
When a guard detects someone trying to enter the facility, he identifies the person through the use of
the challenge and password system (STANAG 2129). This system will be established by the
command. It is included in the guard orders and/or briefing. If the individual cannot properly identify
himself, he is detained. The guard supervisor or other designated person is notified. Even when the
correct password is given, a guard must remain alert. Only minimum force should be used to detain
individuals; rules of engagement and the use of force should be included in the guard orders for the
post.
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