Security and Safety in Los Angeles High-Rise Buildings After 9/11

• NCJ Number: 204487
• Author(s): Rae W. Archibald; Jamison Jo Medby; Brian Rosen; Jonathan Schachter
• Date Published: 2002
• Length: 76 pages
• Sale Source: Rand Corporation
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Rand Documented Briefing; downloaded on March 6, 2004.

Annotation

This report presents summary observations from a documented briefing on the security and safety of Los Angeles, CA high-rise buildings following the attacks of September 11, 2001, on the United States with recommendations and considerations given.

Abstract

Due to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, many questions were raised about high-rise building security practices in the City of Los Angeles, CA. The Building Owners and Managers Association of Los Angeles commissioned a study by RAND. The study is presented as a documented briefing for building owners and managers, building occupants, and public officials to identify generic threats, identify exemplary practices, discuss issues after an event, and suggest or recommend potential public policy actions. The study was conducted using literature searches, personal and telephone interviews, and group discussions with a wide range of parties; in addition on-site discussions and field observations were conducted in downtown Los Angeles. Additional information was drawn from existing RAND resources. A summary of observations identified included: (1) terrorist threats cannot be specified with any certainty, yet it is likely that explosive or incendiary devices are currently a more significant threat; (2) most key terrorism prevention activities are governmental responsibilities, the Federal Government and building owners should focus on managing and mitigating the effects of catastrophic attacks; (3) most buildings have changed security procedures; (4) first lines of defense should entail increased attention to access control and perimeter security, as well as emergency preparedness plans and tenant education; and (5) building occupants should be well-trained to respond to an incident. The briefing outline consists of an introduction and summary, key considerations for building security, learning from three case studies, key planning considerations for high-rise buildings, potential roles for government, and recommendations for Los Angeles.