Glossary
Checkpoint
A checkpoint is a verifiable physical or virtual point on a patrol route, typically marked by a QR code, NFC tag, GPS geofence, or Bluetooth beacon. Scanning a checkpoint produces a timestamped audit-trail event.
Definition
A checkpoint is the unit of verification for a guard tour. Physical checkpoints are tags affixed to walls, doors, gates, or perimeter fences — typically QR codes (cheapest), NFC tags (tamper-resistant), or RFID stickers. Virtual checkpoints are GPS geofences (a coordinate + radius) or Bluetooth beacons (proximity-based). Modern systems combine: a checkpoint can require both a NFC scan and a GPS validation to count as 'verified'.
Context
Checkpoints are not the same as 'stations' (a guard's assigned post) or 'patrol points' (informal route waypoints). Checkpoints are explicit, contractual: each one is a billable verification, and missing one creates an audit gap. Checkpoint density (number per area) is the key tunable for tour effectiveness.
Placement
Effective checkpoint placement covers: entry/exit points, restricted zones, fire-safety exits, equipment closets, emergency stations, perimeter corners. Placement should be reviewed quarterly — new construction, layout changes, and incident history all justify additions.