The Vulnerability Self-Assessment Tool (VSAT)
Published by Anne Marie Hughes on Sat 09 Jun 12 @ 22:10
One of the core roles of the Counter Terrorism Security Advisor (CTSA) Section located within Strathclyde Police HQ at Pitt Street, is the provision of CT protective security advice and surveying of premises against terrorist threats.
Obviously, due to the large numbers of businesses in Strathclyde, we are forced to focus solely on large businesses and critical infrastructures. However, it has long been acknowledged that there has been a gap in the provision of security advice and surveys for the SME sector. In an effort to provide support to small businesses, the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) based within the Security Service in London developed a tool to assist these businesses.
The Vulnerability Self-Assessment Tool (VSAT) was originally developed to provide guidance to 'Crowded Place' locations, but is also capable of being used in non-crowded place locations as well. The process is fairly simple and involved business owners completing a self-assessment form online. Their responses are analysed and a Vulnerability Self Assessment Report is produced, outlining vulnerabilities and providing guidance in overcoming theese, along with specifications and documents giving specifics.
All forces have now been authorised to provide this to businesses and partner bodies. The full process is free and should target harden businesses against terrorist threats as well as other forms of threats (e.g. criminal).
For further information, contact: David BaMaung, Counter Terrorism Security Advisor, Strathclyde Police, Force Headquarters, 173 Pitt Street, Glasgow G2 4JS, Tel: 0141 532 2614.
