scope:

PURPOSE

Despite the ongoing evolution of the threat environment, this book continues to be a relevant reference for the design and assessment of a broad range of facilities. The original text was the state of the practice at its time of publication, and many of the core principles relating to physical security remain the same and have served as the foundation of this book. However, there has been significant development in the field in the last 20 years including research, testing, software, criteria documents, specifications, certifications, testing standards, and products. Projects of all types have been assessed, designed, and built, thus providing a wealth of information on the effectiveness of mitigation strategies. Many of the lessons learned from these projects have emphasized the importance of close coordination with other design considerations, which at times are at odds with physical security design strategies. These considerations include aesthetics, daylighting, energy performance, accessibility and life safety, and the constructability of building systems such as façades. Nevertheless, when addressed early enough in the project, the protective measures can be integrated seamlessly in the design, and the protected facilities will serve their intended functions.

The envisioned readership for this Manual of Practice is design professionals involved in projects with physical security concerns, most specifically related to explosive, ballistic, forced-entry, and hostile vehicle threats. This book provides an overview of the typical design considerations encountered in new construction and the renovation of facilities for physical security. Because a structure will likely be damaged in response to these malevolent events, the book helps the engineer appreciate the extent of damage and incorporate upgrades to maintain structural integrity and manage debris. The authors assume that most readers will have training and experience in structural engineering and design for dynamic loadings. This book is not intended to be a textbook or primer on these subjects but rather a manual to guide designers involved in physical security. As such, each chapter references other resources including books, standards, and research, where more in-depth information may be found.

Furthermore, the revised edition changed from a Technical Report to a Manual of Practice. As such, this Manual of Practice was peer-reviewed by a Blue Ribbon Panel of experts before seeking final approval from the ASCE Executive Committee. Several of the original edition's authors served as part of the Blue Ribbon Panel. This second edition is therefore an even more valued resource to the physical security design community.