Left of Bang: Assessing Risks and Strengthening Defenses for a Safer Tomorrow
Prevention starts with a risk assessment. Then hardening based on expert recommendations. And lastly the buy-in of the executive team. Easy enough, right?
As risk managers heavily involved in protecting our client's assets from threat and harm, by finding their vulnerabilities and hardening them, we continuously see a myriad of vectors for determined attackers to exploit.
And if we ask these same clients about leaving their doors unlocked at night, we often receive the incredulous "I would NEVER do THAT" look. But without a continual risk management process, those doors are closed once, and then someone leaves them open for months and years. What happens is usually avoidable - but only if we think "left of bang." Rather than thinking an incident inevitable we consider it entirely possible to prevent it.
So what is this "Left of Bang" thing and why does it matter to me?
The concept of "left of bang" is a proactive approach to self-defense that focuses on prevention rather than reaction. It emphasizes being aware of potential threats before they occur, so you can take steps to avoid them or minimize their impact if they do happen. In this blog post, we will explore how left of bang thinking can help keep you safe and secure in any situation by assessing the risks around you and hardening your defenses accordingly.
The Importance of Left of Bang Thinking
The term "left of bang" originated from the military, where it is used to describe the moments leading up to an explosion or violent event. By focusing on these moments, individuals and organizations can identify potential threats and take action to prevent them from occurring. In the context of personal safety and security, left of bang thinking involves recognizing the signs of potential danger and taking steps to mitigate the risks. Schools, in particular, have a unique responsibility to protect their students, staff, and visitors. By adopting a left of bang approach, they can better anticipate potential threats and take the necessary steps to reduce vulnerabilities. At Orbital Risk, a leading provider of risk assessment and security consulting services, we pride ourselves on helping schools navigate this process and implement effective safety measures.
Here are three actionable items schools should consider when seeking to enhance their safety and security, which Orbital Risk can assist with:
Comprehensive Risk Assessments
The first step in any left of bang approach is a thorough assessment of the risks facing your organization. Orbital Risk can work with your school to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities, both internally and externally. This can include examining factors such as building layout, access control, and security systems, as well as considering potential threats from outside actors or natural disasters.
By conducting a comprehensive risk assessment, schools can gain a clear understanding of their current security posture and identify areas that need improvement. This information can then be used to develop a tailored security plan that addresses these concerns and reduces the likelihood of an incident occurring.
Security Training and Awareness Programs
Education and training are crucial components of a proactive security strategy. Orbital Risk can help schools develop and implement effective training programs for staff and students, ensuring that everyone on campus is knowledgeable about potential threats and knows how to respond in the event of an emergency.
These programs can cover a wide range of topics, from recognizing the signs of potential danger and reporting suspicious behavior, to understanding the proper procedures for evacuating a building during an emergency. By fostering a culture of safety and preparedness, schools can empower their communities to take an active role in preventing incidents and minimizing harm when they do occur.
Physical Security Enhancements
After identifying potential vulnerabilities and educating staff and students, the next step is to harden your defenses through physical security enhancements. Orbital Risk can assist schools in selecting and implementing appropriate security measures based on their unique needs and circumstances. These measures may include:
Installing intelligent video surveillance systems to monitor campus activity and deter potential threats
Implementing access control measures, such as card readers or biometric systems, to restrict unauthorized entry into sensitive areas
Upgrading door and window locks to prevent unauthorized access
Protective film additions to reduce the ability of free movement
Adding barriers or bollards to protect pedestrian areas from vehicle-based attacks
By investing in these simple physical security improvements, schools can deter potential attackers and create a safer environment for everyone on campus.
So how do we get started?
The left of bang approach is a powerful tool for enhancing safety and security in any setting. By assessing risks, educating stakeholders, and hardening defenses, schools can significantly reduce the likelihood of incidents and create a safer environment for their communities. Orbital Risk's expertise in risk assessment, security consulting, and training programs can help schools navigate this process and implement effective measures tailored to their unique needs.
In today's unpredictable world, it is essential to be proactive in addressing potential threats before they escalate into crises. By adopting a left of bang mindset and taking the necessary steps to assess and mitigate risks, schools can not only protect their students, staff, and visitors but also create a culture of preparedness and resilience that benefits everyone.
Take action today by partnering with Orbital Risk to assess your school's security and identify areas for improvement. Together, we can build a safer tomorrow for our students, educators, and communities. Remember, prevention starts with assessment, and hardening defenses is based on recommendations. Let's work together to make our schools as safe and secure as possible, so that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow in a nurturing environment. Contact us today at info@orbitalrisk.com and let us partner with you for a safer future.