Security and Safety at CERN
Safety Always
Make your visit to CERN a safe one
Whatever you do at CERN, be aware of the risks on site.
Security Service
The Security Service is responsible for the operational management of the physical security of people, property and infrastructure located on the CERN site, as well as for the general implementation of the security policy.
Good practices
Traffic regulations at CERN
The French and Swiss highway code applies on the French and Swiss CERN domain.
The speed limit is 50 km/h. Pedagogical speed radars are deployed in the most accident-prone areas of the domain.
Permanent badge wearing
All persons on the CERN site must wear an access badge or visitor’s card in a visible and permanent place.
Evacuation plan
In the event of a threat, the partial or total evacuation plan of the CERN domain can be activated.
You must follow the instructions given to you without delay.
Unattended luggage
Do not leave your luggage unattended. Abandoned luggage may result in evacuation of the building and may be destroyed without notice. If you discover an abandoned bag, do not touch it and call the CSA at 76666.
Access to CERN
Depending on your status (staff member, contractor, visitor with guarantor, etc…) a registration and a valid access card are required to access the CERN domain.
In accordance with operational Circular No. 2, vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians are controlled to ensure that only authorized persons enter the sites.
Staff members can authorize an external visitor to access the domain by applying for a visitor’s card and vouching for the visitor. Except in exceptional circumstances, the maximum duration of a visitor’s card is 2 days. If the visitor comes to work at CERN under contract, he/she must register as a contractor.
Lost and Found
The Security Service supports the central registration of lost, disappeared or stolen property and is also responsible for the registration, storage and retrieval of found objects.
Any item found on the CERN site must be delivered in person to the CERN guards at Entrance B on the Meyrin site or at the Main Entrance of the Prévessin site.
The declaration of lost personal property might also need a declaration with local swiss or french authorities.
Site Access and Permits
Entrance Control and guards provide essential security-related services to ensure safe access and operations across CERN sites.
Their activities include managing access to restricted areas, implementing security and traffic measures, and handling requests related to site use and logistics.
Security Advice and Requests
Request access data, video extracts, security advice and authorisations for activities on the CERN site.
