How To Conduct a Security Threat Assessment

/ Management, Security Physiology /

While much attention is paid to how we respond to tragic incidents on campuses, less is paid to preventing such incidents. So, when called on to provide a threat assessment, an opportunity to do so should never be wasted or skimped on.

Here are some tips on how to provide a thorough security threat assessment:

Before Your Visit.

  1. Know your business. What you have to offer.
  2. Know the client’s business. Research their history and product.
  3. Make sure you have assembled a team to assist you with the evaluations.
  4. Take detailed notes of the environment. Such as open, controlled, etc..
  5. Check for inoperable doors and equipment any potential safety hazards.
  6. Review the location and crime statistics.
  7. Review the current security and fire systems.
  8. Locate a map of the property. I would suggest Google maps.
  9. Request to visit the site in the evening. Request a supervisor to assist.

Meet With On-Site Security Staff.

Start by meeting with your on-site security staff. The security staff will be your valuable source of information because they are the most knowledgeable about the surroundings.


Do a Walk-Through of the Facility.

Do a walk-through around the facility inside and out, taking note of the following:

  1. Current lighting/additional lighting.
  2. Access control.
  3. Security systems-current and suggested.
  4. Identification of employees and visitors.
  5. Operating procedures.
  6. Identify potential security breaches.
  7. Identify possible slips, trips and fall locations.

 Writing up your report.

Now that you have walked through the site, taken notes and met with the staff, you’re ready to put together a detailed report of all your recommendations. Compile all your notes and ideas into one document. Once this is complete make sure you (and your management team) reviews everything; especially grammar and spelling errors.

Be honest with your evaluation but avoid beating up the client too much. Provide suggestions and possible solutions along with security staffing needs you could fulfill. Be sure to include your company’s history, hiring process, training process and pay scale of security personal.

Remember, it’s what you can do for them and your knowledge that the client wants. Include all  of your findings and potential threats they may encounter with your suggestions to eliminate such potential threats. Show your client you care and are 100% invested in providing a safe environment for both employees and visitors. 

Once this is typed up and ready to go, make sure the report is professionally bonded. I suggest using a local print shop to ensure the best quality.


Don’t get discouraged.

One thing I always kept in mind is that not all of my recommendations will cost the client, the client is in business to make money and not find new ways to spend profits. With that, make sure you sprinkle in the things you and the security staff can do. Another thing is knowing your clients fiscal year ends and begins. This will provide your client time to process the information and follow through with cost evaluations.    

The client may not follow through with any suggestions you provided. This is normal and usually budget related, not a lack of understanding or caring.