Chapter 14: Courthouse Security
Center. The entrance screening system must be compatible with the architectural
design of the facility and provide ballistic protection (UL 752, Level III).
Judges' Entry. Entrance from the judges' parking area to the restricted elevator via a
restricted lobby must have electronic access control, a CCTV camera, an intercom and
a duress alarm device. The entrance must be monitored at the USMS Command and
Control Center.
USMS Personnel/Prisoner Entry. USMS personnel must enter the USMS Office
through a restricted entry leading from a secure parking area. A separate secure entry
(with elevator if required) to the USMS Office and cellblock must be provided in the
parking lot's sallyport for USMS personnel and prisoners.
Loading Dock. A single building entry point for supplies and services must be
provided by the loading dock and service area. Parking for service vehicles must be
located outside the court building. Where service and delivery vehicles are parked
adjacent to the court building, the area must be designed to reflect and withstand
explosions.
Delivery and service vehicles and personnel should be positively identified before
proceeding beyond the hydraulic barrier. Where a parking lot guard is provided,
vehicular deliveries can be channeled past the guard post for screening, or a separate
guard station may be required. The loading dock entry must have electrically-
controlled doors, with remote control and monitoring from the USMS Command and
Control Center. A metal detector and X-ray equipment must be provided to screen
people and packages entering the building. Intercom and CCTV systems must be
installed to alert security personnel to the arrival of delivery trucks and allow
surveillance of the loading dock area. This equipment can be monitored at the CSO
security station in the public lobby or at the USMS Command and Control Center.
Interior Security
Circulation Controls
Three Separate Systems. An essential element of courthouse security design is the
physical separation of public, restricted, and secure circulation systems. Trial
participants should not meet until they are in the courtroom during formal court
proceedings. The integrity of each circulation system must be maintained for all
functions within the court facility, including dining and service access points.
Judicial Circulation. The facility design must allow judges to move from restricted
12/19/97
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