The risk assessment is a process undertaken by the installer. It is basically the process by which he/she gathers the information necessary to design a suitable intruder alarm system that corresponds to the risk and which meets the needs of the client, ie the grade of the system.
The risk assessment comprises of two surveys:
- Location survey
- Technical survey
The location survey is made up of two stages:
- A risk assessment of the building content – the total value of target items (electrical goods, jewellery and so on) will generally indicate the level of security required.
- A risk assessment of the building’s fabric and structure – how easy or difficult it might be to enter the building, the level of physical security, location, break-in history and so on.
Meanwhile, the technical survey looks at those factors than might influence the choice and design of system - as well as the final system design proposal. It will look at any aspect that might impact on the performance of the system, such as electrical interference from local plant or machinery.
The grade of intruder alarm system will depend upon the performance required, as determined by the location survey.
Grading of Intruder Alarm Systems
The grade of intruder alarm system may be particularly important if you are depending on the alarm system for insurance cover. Insurers may specify a particular grade of system or aspect of design, depending on the nature of the risk you are aiming to protect.
An overview of the grading system levels detailed in BS EN 50131- 1 is given below:
| Grade 1 – Low risk |
| Intruders are expected to have little knowledge of the alarm system and may be restricted to a limited range of easily available tools. |
| Grade 2 – Low to medium risk |
| Intruders are expected to have a little more knowledge of the alarm system and use a general range of tools and some specialist equipment. |
| Grade 3 – Medium to high risk |
| Intruders are expected to be conversant with the alarm system and have a comprehensive range of tools and portable electronic equipment. |
| Grade 4 – High risk |
| To be used when security takes precedence over all other factors. Intruders are expected to have the resources to plan an intrusion in detail and have a full range of equipment, including the means to substitute vial components in the alarm system. |
Most commercial premises will require a Grade 2 or 3 system.