Security Surveys and Assessments

Since most crimes in commercial facilities are directed toward facilities that have too little or no security planning in place, it becomes apparent that good security planning and sound security system design are of critical importance.

When business, economic, environmental or societal factors change, security planning must be reviewed to ensure that it is sufficient for the new circumstances. Don't guess - reassess.

Recognizing the Threats

Commercial and government offices can be targets for theft and unlawful entry, not to mention worse but less common crimes. External social and environmental factors contribute some threats and exposures; internal personal and work-related factors contribute other threats and exposures.

What possible and likely threats does your facility face?
What are the assets that are subject to threat?
What are appropriate asset identification measures?
What are appropriate asset protection measures?
To reduce risks to personnel what physical measures can be taken?
To further reduce risks to personnel what operational measures can be taken?
How much will these reduce your target potential?
Can changes to facility appearance further reduce your target potential?
Are there any ways to "send a message" that your facility is not a safe target for criminal activity?

Combating the Threats

No single crime prevention element by itself will shut out crime. The most effective approach is almost always a combination of
physical security measures, operational security measures,
and education to develop an appropriate security attitude for facility personnel.

Security measures and programs must be as compatible as possible with intended facility operations to prevent interference with productivity, which is the primary purpose for the facility.

Security designs and programs must be realistic in terms of budget and operations, while still being effective.

What absolutely MUST be done?
What else should be done that you can afford to have done?

Don't let the scope of the task deter you. Don't let a lack of interest by others dissuade you or postpone your actions if security is at all your responsibility.

If you are starting with a zero budget, consider that people generally have some awareness of basic security issues. Soliciting their suggestions is free; you may be surprised how many free and low cost suggestions are worth doing. (If they don't suggest them we can.)

Important Facts

Remember these important facts about addressing security issues.

Almost always:

Doing something is better than doing nothing.
Doing something small now is better than waiting to do something big later.
Sooner or later you will be forgiven inconveniences if you protect people and property from harm.
You may never be forgiven if you don't protect them.

Security Assessment Quiz

Now you should take our single-question "pop quiz" for facility security surveys:

If you don't have an up-to-date security assessment, when is the right time to get one?