Earlier this summer, I took a short contract with a pipeline company to enhance some of their security documents, similar to work I'd done previously. Part of my work involved incorporating design considerations into construction security standards, using the Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) Guidelines as a basis (quick overview here; more in-depth document here). As I worked through how these might apply in designing new plants, compressor stations, or area offices, I also reflected on how these principles can and should be used in designing new schools. Some of the suggestions from the guidebook that stuck out to me were:
- increasing visibility through more and strategically placed windows or other openings
- choosing materials that are both aesthetically pleasing and require minimal maintenance
- providing adequate, consistent, and protected lighting
- avoiding concealed or isolated routes by bringing in more activities, ensuring clear sight lines, or improving lighting
- considering the other kinds of businesses or general activities (and activity levels) surrounding the school and the risks they may pose
- creating a sense of ownership or territoriality among all staff and students, but also community members
- well-designed, strategically located signs and maps
- considerations for both day-time and night-time use (or use during hours of darkness)
One of the things my PSII teacher associate reinforced to me is that kids will be more engaged and respectful of the activities that take place in the classroom if the classroom itself (physical) is clean, tidy, and orderly. These documents reinforce the idea that people's attitudes toward one another and their perceptions of themselves and others are greatly affected by their physical environment, whether or not they are conscious of it. Perhaps the bullying, violence, and vandalism could be addressed, at least in part, through reconsidering and adjusting the school's physical layout, appearance, and maintenance to make students feel more in control and proud of the school and what goes on within the property.
Calgary has been on board with CPTED since 1991, but interestingly, the facilities in scope include only houses, apartments, public spaces, neighbourhoods, and businesses (do schools fall under businesses?). In anticipation of new schools being built in Calgary, I hope that CPTED is used in the decision-making, and that the CBE works collaboratively with the Calgary Police Service, ergonomists (especially when also considering Universal Design) architects, engineers, and construction companies to make design decisions that will help support initiatives to make our schools safer.