VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION
VA REGIONAL OFFICE TECHNICAL CRITERIA
Landscaping
Landscaping design elements that are attractive and welcoming can enhance security. For example,
plants can deter unwanted entry; ponds and fountains can block vehicle access; and site grading can
also limit access.
Architecture and Interior Design Related to Security
The lobby space should be planned to accommodate a security station. Physical control of the
elevator lobby should be a prime building security consideration. A security control room should be
located near the main entrance with a clear view of the lobby. This room will provide space for
security guard equipment.
Agent Cashier security measures are at the discretion of local management. The following
may be provided: card key access, duress button, bullet resistant service window (if provided,
wall construction below should also be bullet resistant), wire mesh above the ceiling.
Specifications for bullet resistant service window units can be found at VA website:
http://www.va.gov/facmgt/standard/spec/11022.doc. Service window must be ADA compliant.
Locate offices with vulnerable occupants, such as the Director, so as not to be visible from the street
or uncontrolled public areas. Whenever possible, these offices should face courtyards, internal sites
or controlled areas. If this is not possible, suitable obscuring glazing or window treatment should be
provided.
The mailroom should be located away from facility main entrances, areas containing critical service,
utilities and distributions systems. In addition, the mailroom should be located at the perimeter of
the building with an outside wall or window designed for pressure relief in the event of a mail bomb.
The design should take into account explosive disposal containers and/or x-ray equipment.
Loading docks and receiving and shipping areas should be separated from utility rooms, utility
mains, and service entrances including electrical, telephone/date, fire detection/alarm systems, fire
suppression water mains, cooling and heating mains, etc. Loading docks should be located so that
vehicles will not be driven into or parked under the building if possible.
Minimum Security Features
♦ Perimeter lighting of the building's exterior above and beyond parking/street lighting.
♦ Controlled access to parking areas. Consider height-restricted access into surface lots.
♦ Keypad entry and proximity badges at all exterior entrances. Interior areas to receive keypad entry
and proximity badges will be determined by local management.
♦ For Computer Room security requirements, see the VBA Computer Room Design Guidelines at
http://vbahinesweb.vba.va.gov/engconse.htm.
♦ The VARO security system shall be powered from the Computer Room UPS.
SECURITY SYSTEMS
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