Go to report table of contents
2.0 A Systems Approach to Security Design: Adopting an Inclusive View
2.1: The Importance of a Systems Approach
2.2: Designing Integration Into a Security System
2.3: Moving Toward Security Systems Integration
These security design considerations are based on a "systems approach" that encompasses all of the aspects of an organization-the people, the processes, the equipment, and the technology. Although this document offers security design strategies for each of the major elements of a transit system-access management, communications, infrastructure, and vehicles-it does so in the context of interdependence, in which each element is to be understood as one piece of a much larger whole. It is this interdependence that makes the protection of a transit system complex and challenging, as the entire system needs to be considered and secured simultaneously. An inclusive view also recognizes that public transit systems are linked to other elements of the transportation network not only physically, but also through an intricate network of technology, law, and regulation.
This chapter discusses:
- The importance of a systems approach
- Designing integration into a security system
- Moving toward security system integration
2.1 The Importance of a Systems Approach
In organizations of any kind, the incentives to build or maintain "stovepipe systems"-individual systems that operate independently of each other-are great. These include limited budgets, protection of organizational turf, staff with focused technical expertise, and the sheer difficulty of implementing an integrated system. With regard to transit security system design, the dangers of stovepipe systems are clear. To individually protect a vehicle, subway platform, computer system, or maintenance facility is not enough-a hazard placed in any of these locations could be unwittingly carried throughout the system by the standard operations of the agency, thereby turning the rapid, mobile, and open nature of public transit against itself.
A more effective level of security is possible when all aspects of the organization can work together, and timely information critical to deterring, preventing, or responding to a security event is available systemwide. When staff at all levels within the organization understand the need for connectivity among its physical, technical, procedural, legal and institutional elements, they are more able to deliver safe, accessible service to the public. A systems approach also contributes to transit security by bringing together the various parties that must design a security strategy, implement the security plan, and respond to an attack or threat.
go to top of the page2.2 Designing Integration Into a Security System
A transit security system encompasses all physical and logical components that contribute to the safety and protection of a transit system's sites and assets, and may include physical barriers, staff credentials, electronic devices, software applications, data management, telecommunications equipment, and security personnel. It also interfaces with other systems, such as facilities management, personnel management, and emergency services communications systems. A systems approach brings a synergistic and inclusive view to planning and implementing a transit security system, taking into account all components.1Transit system managers can use this holistic perspective to design a security system that more effectively:- Integrates security devices into a coherent whole
- Integrates security devices into the transit system
- Integrates security and non-security functions
- Interfaces with non-transit agencies, e.g., emergency services, traffic management
Increasing physical security is a long-term process, as most transit agencies are constrained by fiscal realities from replacing functional vehicles or redesigning usable stations solely to integrate new security considerations. The implementation of a security strategy can be incorporated into the operation of transit agencies in stages, with simple or critical changes being made immediately and long-term modifications incorporated over time. The process is also continuous and iterative, so that refinements and adjustments are constantly made to keep up with innovations and the changing times.
1FHWA, Chapter 16, "Regional Integration," Freeway Management and Operations Handbook, (Publication Number FHWA-OP-04-003 http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/Travel/traffic/freeway_management.htm
go to top of the page
2.3 Moving Toward Security Systems Integration
The systems approach to design and implementation leads to a higher degree of systems integration, which is discussed at length in Chapter 9: Security Systems Integration. Security systems integration implies that all types of systems and their subsystems are linked together. It applies to how the security system's components work together as a whole, as well as to how the security system communicates with other systems having related transit functions. Achieving systems integration is as much a conceptual challenge as a logistical challenge. Note that integration can be present in degrees and can be implemented as part of a phased system-development process.
Chapter 9: Security Systems Integration further describes "system" in the context of the transit security system, discusses systems integration as an outcome of the system development process, and defines a methodology for agencies to meet the challenge of building integration into systems design.
go to top of the page
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
