Developing a Vulnerability-Assessment Process for Corrections

• NCJ Number: 211606
• Journal: Corrections Today
• Author(s): Allan Turner
• Date Published: 2003
• Length: 2 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)

Annotation

This report describes the vulnerability-assessment methodology designed for assessing the security of correctional facilities.

Abstract

Correctional institutions have an obligation to ensure the security and control of inmates in their custody. Part of the process of ensuring their security is an assessment of the facility’s vulnerabilities. However, new correctional technologies that have increased the security of these facilities have also made the vulnerability assessment process more complex. The National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ’s) Office of Science and Technology has initiated a project with Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) and the American Correctional Association (ACA) to develop a vulnerability-assessment methodology for correctional institutions that combines physical security assessment with security technology assessment. The report describes the collaboration between SNL and ACA that resulted in a three-phase review of an assessment methodology developed by SNL and adapted to correctional facilities with the help of ACA. Phase 1 involved using SNL’s vulnerability-assessment methodology to assess two correctional facilities. Phase 2 is currently underway with the goal of modifying SNL’s methodology to be more relevant for corrections. Phase 3 will involve the development of training materials and classes to help corrections administrators perform the vulnerability-assessments in-house. References