Editor’s note: “Mitigating Mistakes” is a monthly SecurityInfoWatch.com column series from security consultant and author Paul Timm featuring photos of security vulnerabilities discovered in the field followed by a discussion on the problems they present to a facility’s security posture and how they can be addressed.
Finding: While conducting security assessments, I often encounter facilities that have outdated, or otherwise ineffective, emergency evacuation maps. Sadly, some entities don’t even have posted evacuation maps.
Problem: Emergency evacuation maps are a fundamental emergency preparedness component. In fact, numerous insurance carriers and local fire agencies require them. The absence of maps leaves employees and visitors without clear direction on how to safely move away from imminent threats and hazards.
Lesson: Whether required or not, promote an environment of safety and preparedness by posting clear and simple emergency evacuation maps. Building occupants can benefit greatly from improved awareness, orientation and preparedness.
Remedy: Develop evacuation maps that include, at minimum, primary routes (solid red lines), alternate routes (dotted red lines), exterior rally points, locations of safety equipment, and “you are here” designations. Ensure that evacuation maps are posted in every room, including restrooms. You can find helpful guidance from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) here.
About the Author:
Paul Timm, Vice President of Facility Engineering Associates, is a board-certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), the author of School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program, and a nationally acclaimed expert in physical security. In addition to conducting numerous vulnerability assessments and his frequent keynote addresses, Paul is an experienced Crisis Assistance Team volunteer through the National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA). He is certified in Vulnerability Assessment Methodology (VAM) through Sandia National Laboratories and the ALPHA vulnerability assessment methodology. He is also a member of ASIS International’s School Safety & Security Council and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials’ Risk Management Committee. Paul recently earned his Master’s degree from Moody Theological Seminary.
