There are many strategies to prevent school shootings and to keep children safe during the school day, and building design is a key issue.
Some states are mandating that school design have input from public safety officials. Since June 2017, district and charter school officials in Nevada have been required to consult with law enforcement or emergency management before constructing, expanding, or remodeling schools.
New schools tend to have shapes and layout that set boundaries for the students in each school without making it too difficult to move around the building. Security features don’t have to create a prison-like environment to be effective.
For instance, one renovation project of a 1970s brutalist, concrete school added plenty of natural light, while reducing entrance points for more effective monitoring of those entering and exiting. The project also integrated alarms and a public address system to reach all classrooms, offices, and hallways.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2017
After construction crane collapses during Irma, regulations questioned
Cranes rated for 140 mph winds didn’t hold up to 100 mph gusts.
Codes and Standards | Sep 20, 2017
Energy efficiency measures pay off in some not-so-obvious ways
Access to better financing, tax incentives, rent premiums, among the benefits to greener buildings.
Codes and Standards | Sep 19, 2017
Benchmarking regulations prompt jump in green certified properties
2016 saw a slight rise in total certified U.S. green office space.
Codes and Standards | Sep 18, 2017
Changes likely to come to federal wetlands regulations
However, states may step up regulations as feds relax them.
Codes and Standards | Sep 14, 2017
Gentrification means a new mindset for city planners
Rising rents elicit reexamination of zoning principles.
Codes and Standards | Sep 13, 2017
OSHA issues extension for compliance with crane operator certification requirements
Comments on proposed rule sought through Sept. 29.
Codes and Standards | Sep 12, 2017
Washington, D.C. is first LEED Platinum city in the world
All city government buildings are powered by renewables.
Codes and Standards | Sep 11, 2017
Natural solutions would be most effective flood resilience policies for Houston
New green infrastructure should be part of rebuild.
Codes and Standards | Sep 8, 2017
Los Angeles luxury high-rise is first U.S. apartment building to achieve WELL Multifamily certification
Hollywood Proper Residences have verified indoor air and water quality features.
Codes and Standards | Sep 7, 2017
More than half of Houston properties at high or moderate risk of flooding are not in FEMA flood zone
Properties outside of these zones are not required to carry flood insurance.
