The criteria by which the operator/machine interface is user friendly are numerous: all system events are recorded and visually available, only those events classified as alarms are displayed on the monitor, alarm events are those that require timely operator intervention, only items useful in responding to alarm events are displayed on the monitor, displayed items are categorized and shown in fixed locations on the monitor, nomenclature abbreviations are avoided, colors are used to highlight items, a touchscreen is used to facilitate interface, the overall screen presentation is simple, and a single interactive screen format is used. The system is designed to perform automatic and scheduled functions related to site security as well as its central function of reporting and logging alarms and alarm processing interactions. The alarm processing screen format is comprised of a touchpad, operator help instructions, the alarm reporting window, and the alarm instruction window. Four touchscreen technologies -- surface acoustic wave, infrared, resistive membrane, and capacitive touch -- were considered, and the latter chosen for the development system. 7 figures. (Author abstract modified)