Market leading security consultants provide ‘security by design’ assessment at outset of design process. Advent IM, the independent protective security consultancy, has introduced a holistic physical security assessment service for architects and developers. Established in 2002, Advent IM’s service includes the undertaking of a comprehensive threat assessment of environmental and crime-related risks and the required security measures that need to be put in place to ensure they integrate seamlessly into the overall design of a building.

Advent IM’s consultants have more than 100 years experience combined and work to the industry’s Best Practice Guidelines. Its physical threat assessment service includes a logical analysis of potential and existing security infrastructure and its supporting directives and components, including CCTV, access control, lighting, fences and barriers and the manned-guarding elements.

Steve Garton, Director at Advent IM commented, “Our ideal solution is to work with architects from the initial design phase of a new project. As independent security consultants we do think differently – we understand threats, whether they are environmental or crime related. We’re constantly looking for things that might happen. We also want to ensure that a well designed building remains that way. By being involved at the design stage, we can ensure that security is installed into the fabric of the building – and is not just an afterthought that can be ugly, both to the eye and to the wallet.”

However, with the commercial development market slowdown, greater emphasis has been placed on the refurbishment and renovation of existing buildings. In these situations it is important to consider retro-fitting security measures. There are a whole new range of products that can be better integrated into the overall design of a building.

Garton continued: “In the past, security consultants have gone for factory products – black and silver boxes that have to be placed in very obvious places. Now, if a camera is required in an office, the choice is endless and it can be installed inconspicuously wherever it is best placed. Alarm contact sensors can be colour coordinated and many security products can be fully integrated into the design of a building. That goes for ‘greener’ design too."

With both commercial developers and public authorities demanding that sustainable technologies be utilised, it is vital that designers and developers are aware of the security risks that come with these technologies. Rainwater storage, movement sensors on lighting, reducing the light intrusion and landscaping all have their own security risks. The quality and strength of light from photo-voltaic cells is a challenge for security with regards to lighting and CCTV cameras but if there is communication between all parties, there is a way forward.