An exit lane monitoring system (10) detects wrong-way movement through a passage (P) between a secure area and a public area. Heel before toe sensors (12) are positioned on the floor of the passage and detect the foot pressure exerted by people moving through the passage from the secure area toward the public area and of persons moving the wrong way through the passage. Positioning of the sensors in the passage depends upon the geometry of the passage so sensors may be oriented in a non-geometric pattern if so dictated by the passage's geometry. A door (D) is selectively operated to block the passage and prevent persons moving the wrong way through it from entering the secure area. A control unit (16) is responsive to a sensor indication that someone is moving the wrong way to activate the door to block the passage and prevent movement into the secure area.