A construction worker puts up a three metre high steel security fence outside the Toronto Metro Convention Centre. (Nathan Denette/Canadian Press)

By Heather Morrison, G20 citizen blogger

Inside the security zone, employees and residents have been issued passes which must be accompanied by a government-issued ID. The fences and blockades are up, and the countdown is on. Rumour has it that commuters could be required to show their passes as soon as Monday if a suspicious situation unfolds at one of the entry points. Many people are planning to leave early for their Monday commutes in preparation for potential protests and chaos.

Speaking to employees in the security zone Friday morning, many are scared for their safety and are uncertain of the extent of the protests. Thursday's protests featured oil-slicked women and a giant papier mch head of Steven Harper.

Fear of events to come as the G20 summit gets underway are definitely valid. "Being in the security zone honestly feels like a war zone", said one passerby who, as many others I spoke with, requested to remain anonymous. "The heavy fencing, police units and blocked-off streets is intimidating." I suppose we want to intimidate potentially harmful protesters, but this goes back to the initial decision of placing such an event in the centre of a huge city. It's chaotic and strikes fear and concern in the hearts of Toronto citizens. 

We are in for a long week ahead. I am interested to see how the "pass" approach unfolds. Stay tuned.

Related: Map of security zones