Physical Security

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a set of design principles used to discourage crime and promote building security. The concept is simple: buildings and properties can be designed to prevent damage from the force of the elements and natural disasters; they should also be designed to prevent crime.

CPTED principles are based on anticipating the thought processes of a potential offender and creating an environment that discourages follow-through. CPTED has the added advantage of creating a sense of security and well-being among employees and tenants.

When CPTED is put into practice, the resulting environment, including the building and its surroundings, will discourage or impede criminal behavior, and at the same time encourage honest citizens to keep a watchful eye.

FinnStar will perform an assessment of your building and property – exterior landscaping, lighting, doors, and windows using the four CPTED principles. Also included in the review are interior doors, lighting, signage, infrastructure, access management and security monitoring systems.

The four elements of CPTED are Natural Surveillance, Territorial Reinforcement, Natural Access Control, and Maintenance.

Natural Surveillance

Criminals thrive on anonymity. They do not like to be seen or recognized, so they will normally choose situations where they can hide and easily escape. Natural surveillance, then, is simply arranging your property for maximum visibility.

Territorial Reinforcement

The purpose of Territorial Reinforcement is to create a clear distinction between public and private property. This is important for two reasons: legitimate occupants have a sense of ownership and will notice people who don't belong; intruders, on the other hand, will have a hard time blending in.

Natural Access Control

Criminals like to feel that they are in control as they enter and exit an area. When they are in control, they have a low perception of risk, since they believe they are able to move about unnoticed. However, this sense of control can be denied by limiting and clearly marking the approaches to buildings and properties, thereby channeling visitors into a defined area. Natural Access Control is the use of building and landscaping features to guide people as they enter and exit a space.

Maintenance

Surprising as it may seem, many experts believe that a well-maintained property can deter crime. Why? Because a poorly maintained building demonstrates that its owner is no longer able or willing to control their property. It thus becomes an invitation to any criminal who wants to seize control.