Design for inherent security: guidance for non-residential buildings (SP115)

This publication explains the principles and concepts of design for inherent security, as applied to non-residential buildings. This contrasts with with conventional assumption that security is a matter of 'add-on' measures, a problem that architects can pass on to specialists or manufacturers. Inherent security has much more important and interesting architectural implications: the inherent security of a builiding and its occupants depends on site layout, the planning of the building and its detailed design such as the location of doors and windows, control of movement and access, and the exploitation of natural or 'informal' human surveillance. These are more or less permanent features and defects in inherent security cannot be fixed by add-on devices. Inherent security may cost little or nothing, so long as it is allowed for at the earliest stages in a project. An important innovation is the emphasis on security issues, not security measures. These issues are generic and common to many building types, and they allow the integration of crime problems and design principles. Where possible the advice is based on research findings, and augmented by what seem to be reasonably reliable current practice. As well as helping architects, building owners and users in the design of new or refurbishment projects, this guide is also intended to increase awareness of the all-pervasive relevance of security in design and stimulate further research.

Keywords: health and safety, building technology, internal environment.

ISBN: 978-0-86017-416-5

Author: B Poyner and W Fawcett

Number of pages: 196 (paperback)

Publisher: CIRIA

Date of Publication: January 1995