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When determining private security needs for your complex, one of the primary questions is: For whom are we setting up security? By assessing the occupants’ needs for security, you can better plan the private security level suitable for your buildings.
Here are the top 3 questions to ask about building occupants in order to understand a building’s private security needs. Each category can be rated on a “point system” to provide a guideline for the security level needed.
1. Where Are They? Occupant Traffic Patterns
Heavy traffic is more of a security risk for terrorism, crowd control, and criminal activity. Therefore, occupants’ traffic patterns are a crucial factor to take into consideration. Note the “rush times”: When is the majority of people congregated, and at which hot spots? At which times of day do they enter or exit en masse? Which entries and exits are used regularly?
2. Who Are They? Occupant Status
Private security firms will hone in on certain individuals or groups as particularly vulnerable to security holes. VIP’s, management, those in charge of high-valued items – all of these need tighter security measures. In addition, people who are at risk for a medical emergency need to be ensured they can exit securely.
3. How Many? Occupant Count
Numbers matter. Private security teams are set up largely based on the numbers of people who need guarding. If the building is occupied by 10 people, that’s one assessment. If, on the other hand, the building is occupied by thousands, the security risks are vastly different.
Putting It All Together
Much of a building’s private security needs can be determined by taking into account occupant traffic patterns, status, and person count. When analyzing all of these parameters together, a private security firm can understand the big picture. With these three aspects as a basis, a solid security plan can be put into place.
