Public Works and Terrorism (From Terrorism: Defensive Strategies for Individuals, Companies and Governments, P 95-100, 2001, Lawrence J. Hogan, ed., -- See NCJ-192066)

• NCJ Number: 192073
• Author(s): Richard J. Evans
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: Amlex, Inc.
• Publication Format: Book Chapter
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter describes the need for public works and building management people to become involved in building and system security matters.

Abstract

The issue of how to provide access and yet maintain a level of security to public buildings is complicated. A serious effort should be made to analyze the problem, review the alternatives, and seek the advice of trained professionals before making a recommendation for a security system. There are several sources that might offer a high level of expertise. These include utility company security employees (retired or on loan), retired Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or Secret Service employees, retired law enforcement officers, and retired military personnel. A Request for Proposal (RFP) should be circulated, asking for interested parties to apply and bring their qualifications (accomplishments, experience, background, and training) with them. This allows for the selection of the most qualified party to develop recommendations for how a security system is to be operated and by whom. Security people need to be fully trained, not only in the operation of the equipment, but in the way they conduct themselves and deal with people. Security people need to make sure that the contact with the public is not confrontational, but one that tries to maintain a secure building. The vendor of the equipment should be involved in the training. The performance of security people needs to be monitored on a regular basis. An internal security system could be maintained to provide additional protection. Internal security includes keyed or keyless entry systems, closed circuit television systems, and roving patrol people. Public works and general services people need to be aware of security needs for other facilities such as sewage and water, sports complexes, arenas, theaters, museums, transit stations, schools, and hospitals. Condition assessment analysis is a good tool for determining the condition of these facilities and systems. These analyses look at structural conditions, life-safety and code compliance, maintenance history, and usability. A vulnerability analysis can determine potential damage causes and the impact on quality of life of adjacent parts of the city.