Academic Security Risk Management
The broad issue of security at our academic institutions has been thrust to the forefront by world events over the last decade. Both domestic and international threats have increased the responsibility of educational institutions to provide a high level of awareness and protection for those under their care, whether they are on or off campus.
Examples of security events in an academic environment may include:
- Disappearance of students from campus, off campus school events, or study abroad programs
- Threats to damage property or disrupt computer systems
- Express kidnap/kidnap for ransom, hostage taking, or abduction of students from campus
- Unexpected political instability in foreign countries requiring evacuation
Unfortunately, the threat of violence has become a critical issue of concern for educational institutions at every level. In addition to direct physical injury, the impact of these incidents can be far reaching. The loss of life and trauma exacts a significant emotional toll on the school community and the residual consequences can continue for years. The financial impact of such events are also damaging, as expenses related to the counseling of students, staff and families are brought into play, as well as public relation services, increased security costs, medical costs, loss of revenue or tuition reimbursement, costs for investigations and evacuation expenses.
For the independent school administrator, addressing and managing these risks has become a key component in designing the school's operational parameters and incorporates everything from waiver and consent agreements, lock down procedures, off campus and/or foreign travel security, drop off and pick up protocols, etc. In addition to building a "best practices" risk management model for safety and security, there are new insurance programs that have been developed to help the school address these exposures from a liability standpoint.
Academic Security Risk Insurance Coverage is designed to meet the specific needs of academic institutions. The program protects directors, officers, trustees, faculty and staff, students, and campus visitors. A wide scope of events are covered such as acts of violence against the institution, threats to harm individuals or divulge information, damage to property, disappearance of students and child abduction. Expenses including students' and employees' medical charges, increased security, lost wages, temporary facilities, and communication and public relations services are covered under this program. An added benefit of working with an insurance carrier that specializes in Academic Security Risk coverage is that you gain access to current updates of activity and safety levels around the world along with resources to help mitigate your risks.
While an academic institution should be vigilant to include comprehensive practices such as proper supervision, visitor checks, and premises security, complete protection from serious outside threats will continue to remain a challenging dynamic. Although not a sole solution, an Academic Security Risk policy can be an effective risk transfer tool to address these types of events as well as add additional resources to your existing security model.
Michelle Jackson, CIC, CISR
Assistant Vice President
Bolton & Company
