Disclosed is an apparatus and methodology for detecting contact within a monitored area. A piezoelectric sensor is attached to one end of a detector which is positioned for contact by passing items or individuals. The detector may correspond to a plurality of parallel, rubber calendared cables or a strip of polycarbonate resin. Body deformations induced into the detector upon contact travel to the piezoelectric sensor and are detected as strain coupled to the piezoelectric sensor. The apparatus and methodology may be employed to detect vehicular traffic along travel paths, human contact with walls or floors, manufactured product contact with delivery systems or any other physical contact by animate or inanimate objects or individuals.