FPS Security Measures Briefing Report

Review the briefing report titled “Federal Protective Service: Actions needed to resolve delays and inadequate oversight issues with FPS’s risk assessment and management program” located at http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d11705r.pdf. Most of the changes that have taken place within the Federal Protective Service (FPS) have been reactive as a result of specific events such as the Oklahoma City bombing and terrorist events of September 11, 2001. This insinuates that there could be other potential threats that are being ignored because they have yet to be exploited.

Write a three to four (3-4) page paper in which you:

Evaluate the security measures taken by the FPS and determine if the measures are comprehensive enough, given any potential threats not mentioned in the report.

Compare the security measures provided by the FPS to those of a commercial building with which you are familiar.

Describe the weaknesses that still exist within the protocols defined by the FPS.

Describe the security measures that you see at your nearest federal building as well as the security measures that you believe may not be obvious to other observers.

Answer:

Evaluation of Security Measures by the Federal Protective Service (FPS)

The Federal Protective Service (FPS) plays a crucial role in safeguarding federal facilities and personnel against potential threats. However, as highlighted in the briefing report titled “Federal Protective Service: Actions needed to resolve delays and inadequate oversight issues with FPS’s risk assessment and management program,” many changes within the FPS have been reactive responses to specific events such as the Oklahoma City bombing and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. This raises concerns about the comprehensiveness of security measures, especially regarding potential threats that have not yet been exploited.

Comprehensiveness of Security Measures: While the FPS has implemented various security measures to address known threats, there may still be gaps in preparedness for potential threats not mentioned in the report. For instance, the report focuses primarily on physical security measures such as access control and perimeter security, but there may be emerging threats such as cyberattacks or insider threats that require additional attention. Therefore, it is essential for the FPS to continually assess and update its security protocols to adapt to evolving threats.

Comparison with Commercial Building Security: Comparing the security measures provided by the FPS to those of a commercial building reveals both similarities and differences. Like federal buildings, commercial buildings typically employ access control systems, surveillance cameras, and security personnel to protect occupants and assets. However, commercial buildings may also invest in additional security measures such as biometric access control, security patrols, and emergency response plans tailored to specific threats or vulnerabilities.

Weaknesses in FPS Protocols: Despite efforts to enhance security, weaknesses still exist within FPS protocols. These weaknesses may include inadequate oversight of security contractors, delays in conducting risk assessments, and inconsistencies in implementing security measures across federal facilities. Furthermore, budget constraints and resource limitations may hinder the FPS’s ability to address all security vulnerabilities effectively.

Security Measures at Nearest Federal Building: Observing security measures at a nearby federal building may reveal visible and hidden security measures. Visible security measures may include armed guards, vehicle checkpoints, metal detectors, and surveillance cameras. However, there may also be less obvious security measures such as blast-resistant windows, reinforced barriers, and air filtration systems to protect against chemical or biological threats. Additionally, the building may have cybersecurity protocols in place to prevent digital intrusions and safeguard sensitive information.

In conclusion, while the FPS has implemented various security measures to address known threats, there is room for improvement in addressing potential threats not mentioned in the report. Continual assessment, adaptation, and collaboration with stakeholders are essential to enhance the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of security measures across federal facilities.