SEAN A. AHRENS, M.A., CPP, FSyl, CSC, BSCP, CHPA

My most favorite article I have ever written. Marks a transition where I will focus on more strategic thinking...

This article introduces the reason I worked to develop an involuntary separation guide.

Lighting choices are a critical component to parking safety best practices, but choosing appropriate lighting means juggling ROI, energy savings and reliability.

I opine on the advances in the future, along with their simplicity, will propel the expanding use of drones

The following article reflects my opinion and not my employer's

In 1966, at his University of Cape Town address, Robert Kennedy said, “Like it or not, we live in interesting times. They are times of danger and uncertainty, but they are also the most creative.”
In 2020, shifts in environmental factors rapidly created new broad security challenges. The year began with the coronavirus response, which created significant challenges in how buildings are managed, operated, accessed, and… Show more

The following article reflects my opinion and not my employer's

In 1966, at his University of Cape Town address, Robert Kennedy said, “Like it or not, we live in interesting times. They are times of danger and uncertainty, but they are also the most creative.”
In 2020, shifts in environmental factors rapidly created new broad security challenges. The year began with the coronavirus response, which created significant challenges in how buildings are managed, operated, accessed, and egressed. The COVID response was reactive, and many protocols were done in haste, without consideration of their effects on security. Show less

LED is wonderful, but does the technology increase vulnerabilities over that of other older technologies.

INVOLUNTARY EMPLOYMENT SEPARATION/TERMINATION STRATEGIES V2

While there are several environmental factors at play, and the knee jerk reaction is to replace call boxes because everyone is connected via mobile technologies; it may not be the right decision. We need to consider if mobile technologies would be a deterrent, if people know how to use these technologies in an emergency, and if the communication will make it to someone who can provide help. Organizations need to define an entity that owns, maintains, repairs, and services this equipment… Show more

While there are several environmental factors at play, and the knee jerk reaction is to replace call boxes because everyone is connected via mobile technologies; it may not be the right decision. We need to consider if mobile technologies would be a deterrent, if people know how to use these technologies in an emergency, and if the communication will make it to someone who can provide help. Organizations need to define an entity that owns, maintains, repairs, and services this equipment exclusively. Organizations must consider that these entities may have become biased to the device operations, and that random, recurring third-party testing should be considered. Organization should also drill on these devices. That means a random mock emergency activation, which can support the identification of larger concerns.
For many organizations, the move to VOIP has left unanswered questions regarding reliability/redundancy, which was present with POTS, but remains a requirement. The monetary decision could lead to a potential loss of life and premise liability exposure, which will most likely be tested in court. Show less

Article on common sense predictions and what you can do now...

Understanding how disruptors work is the first step to combating their potential negative consequences for facility security.

The field of Tall Building Security has become increasingly important in recent decades—as the number of skyscrapers increase, so too do the nature of threats that must be considered when planning for their resilience. The effects of climate change have increased the frequency and intensity of storms, while advances in digital technology have created new opportunities for automation that simultaneously increase vulnerabilities to hacking and cyber-attacks. Globally, the threat of violence in… Show more

The field of Tall Building Security has become increasingly important in recent decades—as the number of skyscrapers increase, so too do the nature of threats that must be considered when planning for their resilience. The effects of climate change have increased the frequency and intensity of storms, while advances in digital technology have created new opportunities for automation that simultaneously increase vulnerabilities to hacking and cyber-attacks. Globally, the threat of violence in both public and private arenas must also be planned and prepared for both structurally and with appropriate evacuation strategies. Show less

Guidance for suspicious packages.

Multi-part article on assessing vulnerabilities and evaluation of cyber hacking of IoT and Rooftopping

I opine on domestic terrorism in this article.

An article about functional risks within a security management program.

The stories in this article come from my personal diary of security vulnerabilities that I have encountered - enjoy.

The 2014 Grand Platinum winner was also awarded the top corporate security project. This massive corporate complex located in the West Bay of Doha, is one of the largest corporate campuses in the world. Covering more than six million square feet, the complex includes a five-star hotel, nine prominent high-rise towers comprised of 16 to 52 stories each, a parking garage, underground parking for 6,000 cars, a central utility plant, an auditorium, and three auto-courts, serving three towers… Show more

The 2014 Grand Platinum winner was also awarded the top corporate security project. This massive corporate complex located in the West Bay of Doha, is one of the largest corporate campuses in the world. Covering more than six million square feet, the complex includes a five-star hotel, nine prominent high-rise towers comprised of 16 to 52 stories each, a parking garage, underground parking for 6,000 cars, a central utility plant, an auditorium, and three auto-courts, serving three towers each.
Show less

The leaders role in the development of an effective workplace violence prevention program.

A introspective look at workplace violence, thoughts about prevention, and future implications.

An article that reviews the concerns around Workplace Violence.

This article is my most favorite. Description below:

The article will evaluate the emphasis of an integrated building design that takes into account security issues for not just the inception of the building, but the entire useful life of the building. The article will evaluate iconic buildings, and review the concerns that should be addressed early on in emerging and potentially politically and economically charged international environments.We will describe how a complete team can meet… Show more

This article is my most favorite. Description below:

The article will evaluate the emphasis of an integrated building design that takes into account security issues for not just the inception of the building, but the entire useful life of the building. The article will evaluate iconic buildings, and review the concerns that should be addressed early on in emerging and potentially politically and economically charged international environments.We will describe how a complete team can meet the goals of the project, inclusive of security, while not detracting from the architect’s vision for the project. Show less

My first Earthquake - Reflections from a third-party view.

The first part of the article is by Felix Nater. I address the second part, mid-way in the document. My article is my hypothesis for the impact of emerging WPV standards and potential for legislation.

Guidence on planning for security.

Get first responders into your building while keeping criminals out

I examine the hang-ups of PCs that can give you IP video headaches. This article is one that I had a great deal of fun writing, and is a favorite.

A different type of Security Assessment.

Too many organizations rush into the purchase of security systems without really understanding the vulnerability they’re trying to address. They’re throwing darts at the problem, hoping they get a bulls-eye. Although there is a chance they will hit the target, more often than not, they will miss.

Organizations should attempt to anticipate and exceed potential new security standards by implementing a structured program that includes physical, technical, and operational measures.

I write this article to prepare others how to deal with the potential of losing their child during a family outing. No one can describe the feeling of a lost child; however per-planning and anticipation of the event can make a difference.

If you have kids, PLEASE read this.. A true account of what happened to my family in Coco beach, Florida. Important things to think about.

To minimize risks, facility executives should be diligent
about managing the value engineering process

A recent standard for digital video image quality is driving developments in software and hardware

A recent standard for digital video image quality is
driving developments in software and hardware - Are we ready?

Another unbiased article where I discuss advantages/disadvantages of IP based systems.

The design of your site can deter criminals and maximize the benefit you gain from security technology

The design and installation of an access control system raises a host of issues beyond the technology itself

My take on "bleeding" edge technologies. To minimize risks and maximize the benefits of innovation, facility executives should look carefully when buying new technology

An old article, which described some of the concerns for IP. Some of which have been addressed. Still a good read in my biased opinion.

A guide to obtaining upper management financial support and advancing your security program

The transition from analog to digital video is the next step in the continuum of Security Video Systems (SVS), moving us farther away from a closed-circuit network, but leaving us with essentially the same core problems and an onset of new problems.

Some crime is opportunistic, involving no premeditation. Other crime is professional, involving a criminal choosing a target with a thought-out process and then exploiting weaknesses to achieve an economic or emotional benefit. Whatever the crime whether it is workplace violence, sabotage or terrorism it is unwanted behavior that can be modified through via the enviroment.

Business goals, including efficiency, shareholder satisfaction and a workable level of local control,
drive development of a global access control upgrade plan for a large organization

As these examples illustrate, a jury verdict can directly relate to inadequate security. Thus, failure to take appropriate security measures and to consider how those measures can be defended in court can be extremely costly. Security managers can reduce the chances that the company will lose when it gets its day in court by taking the following steps.

More than one terabyte on a single cartridge?
It may be on its way.

In 2002 disgusted with the lack of awareness around digital systems, I Authored my very first article. If you want it, I can send it to you, but it is not available online any longer.