ASSESSMENT OF PASSIVE SECURITY MEASURES IN THE DESIGN OF A HOTEL IN MINNA, NIGER STATE

Abstract

ABSTRACT Security and safety are important factors to be considered in every design. This has in recent times become an issue of concern especially in Northern Nigeria. This research sought to assess the effectiveness of the security measures employed in hotel designs by identifying available passive security features within existing hotel layouts and proposing a design that employs these measures in addition to others discovered in literature. The study adopts the principles of crime prevention strategies through environmental design (CPTED), physical security design and layered approach to security for its assessment. A descriptive survey method was adopted for the research and data was collected by observation guided by a well-structured observation schedule as well as a questionnaire administered to determine the nature of security threats faced in hotel facilities. Data obtained was documented and analysed using Microsoft excel package. The results revealed that there was a heavy reliance on active means to secure hotel premises within the study area. Architectural design elements were not fully utilized as a means to deter offenders and potential threats from the hotel facilities, this makes the building susceptible to security risks. Recommendations were made suggesting techniques through which the understudied passive security elements can be implemented in design while stressing the need for passive security considerations in the design phase of every construction work.