NCJ Number
74482
Journal
Assets Protection Volume: 5 Issue: 6 Dated: (November/December 1980) Pages: 29-35
Date Published
1980
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses techniques to make offices secure, procedures for employees to follow in case of a terrorist attack, and other security-oriented measures.
Abstract
As executives make more use of armored cars and trained drivers, the office will become a more attractive target for terrorists. A successful office counterterrorist program involves correctly assessing the situation, preventing escape routes and taking hostages and being ready to use weapons. Each person entering an office must be screened, and the office should be checked for eavesdropping equipment at irregular intervals. Executive offices should be as far as possible from the reception area, with windows covered by venetian blinds or drapes. Parking spaces and doors should not have executives' names on them, nor should pictures of executives be hung in the lobby or front office. Panic buttons should be hidden in instantly accessible places in each executive office, and the executives' phones should have intercom systems that can be switched on at any time. Mail must be closely monitored and properly disseminated. Chemical mace and a universal poison antidote should be kept in each office. All office doors should open outwards, be bullet resistant, and be equipped with high security locks and electrically controlled opening devices. These devices must be operated from within the office area. A flasher (a colored light) above the office entry door can inform staff of intruders; on such occasions staff should instantly take cover under their desks so that only terrorists and security personnel remain standing. Security personnel should not hesitate to shoot to kill if the intruder makes suspicious movements. Suggestions are offered on how to deal with the following categories of persons: expected visitors, unexpected visitors, delivery people, persons seeking information, and persons attempting forcible entry. Door specifications and a diagram of a secure office are provided. For other articles see NCJ 74479.