How to Tackle a Security-Site Survey
security, security site survey June 1, 2010
This is Chris Matt, Managing Editor of Print & E-Media, with Maintenance Solutions magazine. Today's tip is implementing a security-site survey.
A variety of factors can prompt a security-site survey, including new construction, the start of a new operation within an institutional or commercial facility, or a response to threats. Managers and consultants need to consider these factors when taking on a security-site survey:
First, a description of the facility or campus. Managers need to give the consultant a clear and concise understanding of the purpose of each facility and its integrated campus.
Second, the existing system. One major contribution a survey makes to an existing program is documenting the existing system. A comprehensive survey should note the location of every major security component, such as card readers, cameras, and intrusion-detection devices.
Third, the communications infrastructure. A comprehensive site survey should document the configuration, availability and capacity of existing communications networks.
Fourth, regulatory requirements. In some instances, a site survey enables managers to compare the existing security program against regulatory requirements.
And finally, power availability. As the general perception of threat increases, organizations are extending security systems to facilities once considered too remote to worry about. Many organizations have a number of remote facilities that are integral to the security and continued functioning of an organization, but often the facilities have limited available power.
Next
Read next on FacilitiesNet
