Explain the terms 'Threat Assessment' and 'Asset Assessment' and give two hypothetical examples of each.
Threat Assessment: Threat assessment is a structured group process used to evaluate the risk posed by another person, typically as a response to an actual or perceived threat or concerning behaviour. The process of threat assessments was developed by the Secret Service as a response to incidents of violence.
Threat assessment is the first step in a risk management program. A threat assessment considers the full spectrum of threats (i.e., natural, criminal, terrorist, accidental, etc.) for a given facility/location. The assessment should examine supporting information to evaluate the relative likelihood of occurrence for each threat. For criminal threats, the crime rates in the surrounding area provide a good indicator of the type of criminal activity that may threaten the facility. In addition, the type of assets and/or activity located in the facility may also increase the target attractiveness in the eyes of the aggressor.
The primary purpose of a threat assessment is to prevent targeted violence. The threat assessment process is centred upon on analysis of the facts and evidence of behaviour in a given situation. The appraisal of risk in a threat assessment focuses on actions, communications, and specific circumstances that might suggest that an individual intends to mount an attack and is engaged in planning or preparing for that event.
Examples of Threat Assessment:
Threat Assessment is performed through following:
1. A review of your physical security-related policy and procedural documents in relation to best practices and industry standards.
2. Review and analyse the use of personnel for security purposes at client locations, determining best practice options for a balanced approach to staff hours and electronic security.
3. Review the use of fencing, shrubbery, clear zones, security lighting and other physical