Security is a fundamental part of modern building design and construction. From protecting occupants and assets to safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring business continuity, it must be considered from the earliest stages of a project. Effective security goes far beyond cameras and access control; it requires a proactive, risk-based approach embedded in design from the outset.
Two key tools that enable this are Security Needs Assessments (SNAs) and the SABRE (Security Assurance by BRE) assessment scheme. Together, they help project teams identify risks, strengthen resilience, and provide assurance that developments are secure and future-ready.
This article explores the role of SNAs in identifying threats and vulnerabilities, and how the SABRE framework supports a structured, independent approach to enhancing security performance in both new and existing buildings.
What is a Security Needs Assessment (SNA)?
A Security Needs Assessment (SNA) is a systematic process for identifying potential security threats, vulnerabilities, and risks to a building, site, or asset. It provides the foundation for an effective security strategy, ensuring measures are proportionate to the risks faced.
An SNA involves a thorough analysis of factors such as:
- Threat identification – understanding potential adversaries (e.g. criminals, terrorists, activists), their motivations, capabilities, and likely methods of attack.
- Vulnerability analysis – identifying weaknesses in the physical environment, operational procedures, or technology that could be exploited.
- Risk assessment – evaluating the likelihood of a threat exploiting a vulnerability and the potential consequences (e.g. financial loss, reputational damage, harm to occupants).
- Asset identification – defining what needs to be protected, such as people, information, equipment, or critical infrastructure.
- Contextual analysis – considering the site’s location, surrounding environment, and operational requirements.
SNAs are usually carried out by qualified security professionals using site inspections, stakeholder interviews, document reviews, and threat intelligence. The outcome is a report with recommendations for proportionate security measures — ranging from physical enhancements (barriers, lighting, CCTV) to operational processes and technology.
They are also increasingly relevant to sustainability frameworks. For example, SNAs are often a prerequisite for BREEAM Hea 06 (Safety and Security), which promotes the integration of security considerations at the design stage.
SABRE. A Standard for Security Assurance
While an SNA identifies what security measures are needed, SABRE (Security Assurance by Building Research Establishment) provides a formal framework to evaluate and certify how well those measures perform. Developed by the BRE, SABRE applies to buildings, infrastructure assets, and managed spaces, offering independent assurance of security quality.
Unlike a prescriptive checklist, SABRE takes a risk-based, performance-focused approach, which allows project teams flexibility in how they meet security objectives. Key features include:
- Risk management – helping teams prioritise resources against the most critical threats.
- Performance-based assessment – measuring outcomes rather than dictating solutions, enabling tailored and innovative designs.
- Comprehensive scope – covering physical, operational, and personnel security for a joined-up strategy.
- Independent certification – providing verified assurance to clients, insurers, and regulators.
- Life cycle application – applicable from concept design through to post-construction and in-use stages, enabling continuous improvement.
SABRE complements the SNA process by offering a recognised benchmark against which recommendations can be tested and validated. In doing so, it translates SNA findings into demonstrable, certifiable outcomes that stakeholders can trust.
Security is now a core part of responsible design and construction. SNAs help identify risks and define proportionate measures, while the SABRE framework independently certifies their effectiveness. Together, they provide a clear pathway to buildings that are safe, resilient, and future-ready.