What does the term "access control" mean in the FPS context?

In the context of the Federal Protective Service (FPS), "access control" specifically refers to the management of who is allowed to enter or exit secure facilities. This is a critical function in maintaining the security and integrity of protected locations. Access control measures are designed to ensure that only authorized personnel, including employees, contractors, and visitors that meet specific criteria, can enter sensitive areas.

Effective access control can include various strategies such as keycard systems, security checkpoints, identification verification, and surveillance technology. By controlling who can enter or exit a facility, FPS personnel can mitigate risks related to unauthorized access, which can lead to security breaches, theft, or other threats.

The other options do not accurately encapsulate the primary purpose of access control within the FPS framework. While creating barriers may help control access, it is not the comprehensive definition of access control. Visitor parking policies are related but do not directly address the entry and exit management aspect. Monitoring employee attendance, while important for human resource management, falls outside the specific security-focused definition of access control in this context.