risk assessment

risk assessment

Global security planning Inc. provides all security solutions to business, non profit  organizations, schools and institutions.

Our professional team of experts will assist you all the way from developing a tailored security plan, protocol and procedures to a grant writing and filtering the best integrators and vendors for your project.

We take pride on our professional grant writing success rate that helped hundreds of our clients to execute a proper security plan.

We strongly recommend and encourage schools and institutes to check their qualification to apply and participate in different US federal grants programs (SCAHC Program,UASI NSGP, Hate Crimes Grant Program)

We start off by creating a detailed Risk assessment that will use as a reference to our security plan and integration.  The risk assessment is performed by the local police department and global security planning and will consider all physical and optional risks including landscaping, fencing, gates/locks, lighting, windows, surveillance system, intercom, alarm system, roof, access control, computer equipment, opening/closing procedures, graffiti, personal safety and more.

Follows are the definition, requirements and guiding rules of the principles which a proper risk assessment is based on


Landscaping

In addition to the aesthetic value placed on landscaping, defensive measures should be consider to contribute to security of the perimeter Landscaping can both define a property line around the building as well as deter criminal acts in an around the perimeter

The crime prevention division recommends that all landscaping be properly maintained  to prevent an overgrowth of foliage from blocking any natural light from entering the building or creating a shadows at dawn/dusk. All low growing bushes shrubbery should be kept to a maximum height of 36 inches to prevent concealment for a criminal or intruder. In all cases, shrubs and bushes should not be allowed to grow above any ground floor window sills. In addition, it is recommended that a schedule be developed to maintain all landscaping in conformance with established guidelines


Security fencing

The purpose of security fencing is to provide a protective barrier and first line of defence for the building. It can prevent intruders from entering upon the grounds of a building at a location other than the authorized entrance.

The Crime Prevention Division recommends that security fencing be made of either wrought iron or at least nine (9) gauge chain-link (wire mesh). When using chain-link, the openings should be no greater than two (2) inches square (anti-climb 3/8" to 1" is preferred). The fence should extend to within two (2) inches of the ground and be secured to a bottom rail. If over the soil, the fence should be extended below the surface several inches. The mesh should be tightly drawn and secured to rigid metal posts set in concrete. Security fencing should be a minimum of eight (8) feet high overall including seven (7) feet of chain-link mesh extended another foot by a top guard of three (3) or six (6) strands of barbed wire. This top guard should preferably be angled out at 45 degrees. The mesh should be secured with both upper and lower railings. In cases where older fencing is in use (i.e. wrought iron bars four or more inches apart) wire mesh should be secured to the inside of the fence. Finally, all security fencing should be anchored in concrete.


Security gates/ locks

Security gates and locks are often the first line of defense to protect a business from unwanted break-ins when closed.There are several different varieties of security gates available and in use throughout the city. The most popular type of gate in use today is the roll down gate. It can either be solid or with a meshed middle section to enable viewing of window displays, however, the most preferred configuration for a roll down gate is a solid curtain with one or more polycarbonate vision panels. Vision panels allow responding police to observe criminal activity or other signs of burglary within the premises. There are also sliding gates (ferry style), however, most of these are old and can be easily compromised with a hacksaw or other cutting device

All gates when closed should be secured with heavy duty padlocks utilizing hardened steel abbreviated shackles at least 3/8" in diameter. Padlocks with no exposed shackle used in conjunction with steel coverings welded to the gate's track provide enhanced protection against attack and are strongly recommended. In addition, there should be a minimum of two locking points per gate, one on each side. For safety reasons, when not in use, security gates should be maintained in the up position and secured with padlocks to prevent the gates from either accidentally or intentionally being lowered, trapping the employees and customers in a potentially dangerous situation.


Protective lighting

Adequate lighting is necessary for safe operations and can aid in crime prevention. It is helpful to security personnel and police in detecting unauthorized or suspicious persons and in creating the image of a well-maintained and supervised business. If sufficient lighting is not maintained, security risks increase. The benefits of security lighting cannot be stressed strongly enough. Adequate lighting is essential for deterring and detecting criminal activity. Lighting affords security patrols with an added measure of protection by increasing the probability of detecting criminal activity. Municipal (street) lighting should never be relied upon to provide security lighting for the premises.

The Crime Prevention Division recommends any windows that are readily accessible should also be protected with expanded metal screening. Expanded metal screening can be modified to fit virtually any window. It is recommended that any wire mesh be replaced with expanded metal. All windows that open (double hung) should be fitted with window stops which prevent the window from opening more than six inches. All expanded metal window protection must conform to fire and building codes. In addition, large plate glass storefront windows can be layered with security glazing ( a type of plastic film that covers the window on the inside). Security glazing helps to prevent shards of glass from traveling inward in the event the glass is compromised by accident or explosion. Furthermore, security glazing can be anchored in frames which help to prevent damage from high velocity blasts/explosion and can be tinted to keep out the rays of the sun. A security glazing expert should be consulted to determine ratings, thicknesses and anchoring.


Video Surveillance System - VSS

Video Surveillance Systems permit remote viewing of a situation, condition or activity, either immediately, as the condition occurs, or after a delay, when it is recorded. The latter is becoming the typical security trend. A scene may be either viewed in real time by an operator and/or recorded for later review by others.Monitors should also posses a "DC" restoration switch. This eliminates low-level light in the monitor and ensures greater viewing attention. The screen size should be a minimum of 9 inches for dedicated (1 image) viewing, or at least 19 inches for quad (4 image) viewing. The Crime Prevention Division recommends that all businesses utilize some type of VSS. Furthermore, the VSS should be recorded and if possible actively monitored. Designing a VSS requires the assembly of various components such as:

Camera and Lens - General - purpose camera and lens (which cover approximately 65% of all cameras) should satisfy most business applications. Another area that must be considered is the protection of the camera from both environmental factors as well as against vandalism. If the camera is to be located outdoors, weather must be considered. This means the housing must be waterproof, vapor proof and shock resistant. It may also require a heater or other weather protective apparatus. A second factor is the security of the individual camera against vandalism or an intentional neutralizing attack in both interior and exterior applications. If a camera can be neutralized by having an object hung over its lens, or if an individual could approach the camera for this purpose without the individual being visible, there is a serious vulnerability. In some cases, it may be possible to cut off the camera power supply by simply "pulling a plug". It is recommended that all connections be hardwired and secured in metal conduit. The security enclosures for cameras should be of steel construction equipped with mark-resistant windows and tamper resistant locks. Cameras should be mounted so that they are difficult to tamper with.

Transmission Method of Video Signal - There are several principal methods for transmission of a VSS VIDEO SIGNAL. Wireless or coaxial cable.

Monitor - Monitoring arrangements of equal quality and appropriateness must complement the highest quality components and best-designed camera installations; otherwise, the system installation could be entirely or partially wasted. Monitors should be capable of displaying four or more. Digital Video Recorder - Using digital technology has many advantages over standard recording such as: the ability to instantly retrieve images on one monitor while recording live images on another; the ability to interface with the alarm system; and higher overall resolution. These systems also allow for larger storage space of information in contrast to outdated technology such as videotapes that must be changed on a daily or weekly basis.


The Crime Prevention Division recommends any windows that are readily accessible should also be protected with expanded metal screening. Expanded metal screening can be modified to fit virtually any window. It is recommended that any wire mesh be replaced with expanded metal. All windows that open (double hung) should be fitted with window stops which prevent the window from opening more than six inches. All expanded metal window protection must conform to fire and building codes. In addition, large plate glass storefront windows can be layered with security glazing ( a type of plastic film that covers the window on the inside). Security glazing helps to prevent shards of glass from traveling inward in the event the glass is compromised by accident or explosion. Furthermore, security glazing can be anchored in frames which help to prevent damage from high velocity blasts/explosion and can be tinted to keep out the rays of the sun. A security glazing expert should be consulted to determine ratings, thicknesses and anchoring.

Windows


Intercom system

An intercom system can aid greatly in the security and safety of all persons present in a business. It allows for the transmission of a voice(s) or sound(s) from one location to another location. It can enable an employee to screen visitors before they enter the premises and can help employees summon assistance if necessary. An intercom system can be integrated with a video surveillance system so that the situation can also be monitored visually. An intercom may also be integrated with an electric lock or electric strike to help control the access to the premises.

It is recommended that the intercom system be maintained in proper working order. In addition, the Crime Prevention Division recommends that the intercom system be of the two-way variety. Furthermore, if a VSS system is employed for the main entrance, it should be integrated with the intercom system.


Alarm system

An alarm system can aid greatly in the protection of a business when it is either occupied and unoccupied. When connected to a central station, an alarm system can transmit a signal to an operator anytime day or night and summon assistance in the event of an emergency.

If there is no alarm or adequate protection in the premises, it is recommended that a perimeter alarm be installed on all entrance and exit doors, on all openings within 12 feet of the ground and all accessible openings. This includes loading docks, delivery entrances, windows and doors leading to the roof (also within or in proximity to any unsecured roof or projection). In addition, computer rooms, stock rooms and cash/securities rooms should also be included and should be partitioned off from the perimeter contacts. The alarm should incorporate "hold-up/panic" buttons at designated locations. Motion detectors can be used to detect "stay behinds." Keypad(s) should have arming/disarming capabilities, thirty second entry/exit delay, "all points" zone identification, battery back-up programming, and an internal sounder to alert the user to different conditions. The alarm should be monitored by a central station. Estimates from three (3) different alarm installers should be obtained and the contracted alarm company should be licensed by the State of New York.

Additionally, the alarm installation company should properly install the equipment, ensure that repairs and maintenance are performed properly, make notifications of incidents expeditiously and provide the subscriber with the proper training in alarm controls.


Doors / Locks

It is imperative that doors and locks are maintained in proper working order. If doors and locks are not maintained, entry into the premises is almost certain and a proper security package cannot be maintained. The door system includes the door, the frame, locks, hinges and strike plates.

The Crime Prevention Division recommends that all doors and locks be maintained in proper working condition. Utility closets should remain locked when not in use. In addition, chains with locks must never be used to secure doors in the case of an emergency. Emergency/fire exit doors should be secured with approved locking devices (push bar/paddle type). It is recommended that all rooms not in use be locked to prevent access. Emergency exits must remain clear of debris and must be capable of being readily opened when the paddle/push bar is activated. An annunciator should be installed on emergency/fire exits to ensure that employees are notified when the door has been opened.

All doors, locks and associated hardware must be solidly designed and properly installed. Door hinges should not be exposed and edge guards are recommended. Locks should be pick resistant and include five (5) pin tumblers, one inch bolt throws and heavy duty strike plates.


Roof landing / Roof access

Roof access should be available to all persons in the establishment in the event of an emergency. Only persons (e.g., custodians, maintenance workers, etc.) with valid reasons to be on the roof should have access to the roof on a regular basis. Roof access should be accomplished via a door with similar hardware to the emergency/fire exit door.

It is recommended that the annunciators/exit alarms be installed on all doors leading to the roof in the event that an unauthorized person enters upon the roof. Authorized persons should be able to deactivate the annunciator with a key.

(Note-roof doors may also be connected to a 24 hour zone in the alarm system whereby a signal will be initiated if the door is opened without first deactivating the alarm.)


Key control

The control of keys is an integral part of securing a facility. If access to keys is not controlled, it would be the same as not having locks on the doors.

Only persons with valid reasons should be allowed access to keys to specific rooms. It is recommend­ed that locks be re-keyed at designated intervals. Keys should also be secured in a designated cabinet under the control of the management.


Computer / Office equipment

The security of business computers and office equipment is another area of importance. Expensive office business machines, computers (stand alone and laptops), pagers and cellular telephones are often targeted for theft. A burglar alarm system is designed to detect illegal entry, but cannot prevent thefts that can take place in seconds. Not all thefts take place when offices are locked; someone can simply pick up the item and walk off with it during normal hours. It is therefore important to add to your security program a method of delaying such thefts.

·       Educate the employees not to leave electronic equipment unattended.

·      Affix decals that clearly identify the equipment as property belonging to the premises.

In addition to the above, if necessary, the following recommendations specific to computer equipment including software should also be implemented:

·    Security Software - This software operates similar to a homing device. The software instructs the PC's modem to dial the software company's 800-telephone hot line at least once a week reporting its location. Calls from the proper owner and location are logged. However, if the PC or laptop has been stolen, the present location is monitored and in turn reported to the police.

·    Modems - All modems, which are not essential during non-business hours, should be disconnected. This will prevent unauthorized persons from accessing or corrupting your computer files. This practice is commonly known as hacking.

·    Computer Passwords - All persons utilizing office computers should be granted various levels of access which will be dependent on the position and/or title. This will be accomplished by the use of personal passwords. The computer manager, or person responsible for the system's maintenance, will enter this password into the computer system. This person will then have the ability to change or remove any person's access to the computer system because of termination, change in title or for whatever reason is deemed necessary.


Opening / Closing procedures

The proper opening and closing of any establishment is an integral part of ensuring the facility's security when unoccupied.

It is recommended that the last person in the business ensure that proper closing procedures are followed. This includes ensuring that all employees/customers have left the building and that all offices, stockrooms, garages, etc., are locked and secured. In addition, this person should set any alarm in use and notify the central station that the establishment is closed for the day.


Graffiti

Graffiti or "Tagging" as it is commonly referred to, is the etching, painting, covering or otherwise placing a mark upon public or private property, with the intent to damage such property and is a crime of vandalism.

To combat this condition a regular inspection program should be established. The pre-approved program of immediately recording the graffiti (with a picture), reporting the graffiti to the police and the removal of the graffiti by proper methods should be followed. Any sign of "fresh graffiti" should be painted over or removed as soon as possible. Experience has shown that prompt clean-up is an effective deterrent to the reoccurrence of graffiti. There is also a special paint on the market that

the wall can be treated with. This product reacts with a solution to wash away graffiti on any treated surface.

For acts of graffiti in progress, 911 should be called. For past acts of graffiti, 311 should be called.


Personal safety

It is recommended that all employees attend safety lectures on the various security topics related to the workplace as well as personal safety for men and women. These lectures can be given at your establishment at a convenient time to all parties concerned.

You can contact your local Crime Prevention Officer at the Precinct at

In addition, all requests should be made by company letterhead on official stationary.


Summary

The function of any security system, whether procedural or physical, is to minimize the risk of personal injury and property loss and to increase the structural safety of the premises. The goal of this security survey is to achieve the necessary level of security, consistent with security industry standards, in order to assist in deterring future criminal activity in and around the premise.

It is recommended that all security procedures and devices suggested in this report be implemented. However, if it is decided to implement only part of the recommendations in this report, while not providing the highest level of security advised, it would provide a higher level of security than is currently in place.

This report contains recommendations regarding improved security measures for this premise that are consistent with the practices and procedures of the security industry. The information contained in this report is for the sole purpose of guiding this premise in creating a safer environment through the realization of these suggestions. The New York City Police Department does not expressly or implicitly warrant, now or in the future, that the use of any or all of the recommendations made in this report shall deter or prevent any criminal activities in and around the premise.