Building Audit Planned

Electronic security access on the agenda

U of G has engaged a security management-consulting firm to audit selected buildings on campus for the purpose of developing an electronic security access strategy.

“The buildings that are the focus of the audit were selected to be representative of the varied uses and functions that our university buildings accommodate,” says Nancy Sullivan, vice-president (finance and administration).

“The objective is to receive recommendations from the consultants about technologically advanced electronic access solutions that will, over time, accommodate the needs of all building users and support personnel, including campus police, fire prevention officers and facility caretakers, guided by an institutional strategy for improved physical security at progressive levels of controlled access, with long-term cost-effectiveness.”

Robin Begin, director of Campus Community Police and Fire Prevention Services, notes that the new access strategy will help ensure that personal safety and asset protection are priorities.

The project is being overseen and managed by an advisory committee headed by Prof. Alan Shepard, associate vice-president (academic). The buildings to be audited include Animal Science and Nutrition, MacKinnon and MacNaughton, the McLaughlin Library, the Athletics Centre, the OVC complex, selected student residence buildings and the University Centre.

Facility management personnel have been contacted so that audits can be arranged at convenient times and building stakeholders can be interviewed about their needs, says Sullivan. The consultants will be wearing identification badges.

Based on responses to a request for proposals, Securac Physical Risk Practice Group of Brampton was awarded the contract to develop the strategy, she says. Securac has prior experience with other clients in the post-secondary education sector. The consultants will be working throughout the summer.

A final report on the electronic security access strategy will be delivered to the advisory committee before the end of September. Geoff Byford of the Office of Research is co-ordinating the project for the committee.