When working with critical infrastructure, general contractors need the expertise of a team that understands the nuances of critical infrastructure protection. That means understanding risk management, target hardening, and other crucial areas that may be affected throughout the project.
In-house manufacturing in America has been discussed at length over the past several decades, yet the conversation doesn't always move the needle in the right direction. The real benefits of manufacturing business can sometimes get lost in the shuffle as people focus more on the bottom line than the path that's taken to get there. This is just one of the reasons why you may need to reminded of the real value of buying within the country. See why this process is so important, particularly when it comes to critical infrastructure.
Target hardening involves protecting the internal and external infrastructure of an organization. Target hardening measures are the different techniques they used to accomplish this. The target hardening definition can be a little confusing for some, especially if they do not work in the security or law enforcement field, but it’s really just protecting the environment around you whether internally using a computer, or externally by putting in equipment or locks to protect your structures.
Target hardening is one of the best ways to protect property and life. It helps make structures safer and prevents infiltration from outsiders. Target hardening examples can be complex or simple. From adding specialty locks and alarm systems to signs or high shrubbery, these different techniques are all designed to create a line of defense that a potential thief or criminal will encounter at first glance. The more of a challenge a criminal sees, the faster they will think twice and choose another target.
Target hardening isn’t just for buildings. While most people only consider structural target hardening, there are instances where vehicles must be hardened to protect the passengers and drivers. These vehicles are critical in getting the people and items being transported to its intended destination. Target hardening is well known among law enforcement and the military as they work with threats and risk factors on a daily basis. For others, they may not realize certain structures or vehicles that are outfitted with specialty items are a form of target hardening.
When considering target hardening for guard booths, it helps to start from the beginning. What is target hardening? Target hardening is a term used within the military and law enforcement fields. It basically means making targets more difficult to remove or damage. Target hardening techniques make breaking in a challenge for those who have ill intentions.
When preparing safety and security protocols for law enforcement agencies, it’s always best to begin with scenarios that could possibly take place. One of the best ways to do this is by reviewing lessons from the 1960s and 1970s and coupling them with more recent years to have realistic target hardening examples in which to start developing the plan.
The National Electric Reliability Council (NERC) is a watchdog organization created to keep the public safe. Because the electrical system of a power plant can easily affect a much larger grid, NERC is there to ensure that everyday citizens can keep the lights on. Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) is just a part of what they do, but it's one of the most important components because it establishes the baseline of what safety should look like. The standards for NERC are based on what is rather than how it is. Said a different way, the council is less interested in the process as they are the results. If critical infrastructure is damaged or otherwise compromised, it's likely a sign that protocol isn't being followed. So if you're asking 'what is NERC', We'll look at how everything works and what it means for property owners.
Critical infrastructure may sound as though it's referring to physical assets (e.g., electrical systems, etc.) but the truth is that it can mean any component that is vital to a property. Whether it's the grounds or the physical structure, protecting your critical infrastructure is non-negotiable. Taking these precautions is not just recommended by the Department of Homeland Security, it's a practical way to protect staff, equipment, and resources alike. So if a hacker wants to take all of your sensitive data and hold it for ransom, you don't have to worry about whether you should pay it. Or if an arsonist decides that your building is the next target, you won't have to wrestle with an insurance company for a check. We'll look at what this protection means for you, and what you can do to improve your critical infrastructure protection strategy today.
Target hardening measures are techniques used to make a property more difficult for another to infiltrate. Whether it's a petty thief or a merciless terrorist, the building, structure, and grounds are designed to present multiple obstacles to a criminal, so they eventually become frustrated and move on. The more work they need to do and the more danger it presents, the less likely they are to follow through with the plan. When we think of terrorists, we tend to think of those that make the headlines. From crashed planes to bombed buildings, these heinous acts are often intended for high-profile properties. The problem with these associations is that it can give us an impression that smaller organizations aren't at risk. Yet the truth is that anyone and anything can be a terrorist target. It helps to understand the techniques that can stop an attack long before it actually occurs, and how crime prevention can be fully integrated into everyday life.
