BREAAM Security: Key Strategies for Sustainable Building Safety

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A comprehensive method for sustainable building design that considers the effects of structures on the economy, society, & ecology throughout their lives is provided by BREEAM accreditation. Because the growth of our cities has a significant influence on the environment as a whole, In-Use and certification are increasing.

Not to add, the construction and upkeep of the buildings where we live and work consume a large amount of the limited assets in the globe. Given this, green construction, sometimes referred to as sustainable architecture, is the process of making buildings and their environs more energy-, water-, and material-efficient and safer through the BREAAM security needs assessment.

Throughout a building’s whole life, green buildings also seek to minimise their negative effects on the natural world and public health. Green building concepts extend beyond building boundaries to address site, neighbourhood, and land-use planning problems. Thankfully, there is an answer to these and other land-use problems thanks to the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology, or BREEAM accreditation.

Additional Certifications for Sustainable Buildings: LEED vs. BREEAM

The U.S. Green Building Council created LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, even though BREEAM and LEED are recognised globally. Its main objective has been modified for the North American market. European regulation is the primary focus of the British-developed BREEAM building sustainability assessment process. The main difference between the two methods is that BREEAM uses qualified assessors to provide accreditation. On the other hand, LEED depends on the building’s design team to supply data for USGBC certification. While BREEAM utilises quantitative, more organised, and educational standards, LEED thresholds depend on percentages and are therefore thought to be more straightforward.

The Breeam Certificate’s Objective

Global urbanisation is occurring at a rate that has never been higher. Since the built environment generates about 50% of global greenhouse gas emissions, it has a substantial impact on climate change. Environmental evaluation approaches, such as BREEAM, aim to reduce the adverse environmental effects of buildings by implementing early planning and development stages, development, and subsequent life span studies. A building’s sustainability and benefits to the various stakeholders over its life cycle are evaluated by BREEAM. The evaluation takes into account variables including the environment, society, and economy.

Comprehending The Combination Of Sustainability And Safety

The integrated strategy for economic, ecological, and social sustainability taken by BREEAM is consistent with the incorporation of security into sustainable building design. A key component of social sustainability is assurance, which goes past physical security to include resiliency, preparedness for emergencies, and occupant well-being.

Techniques For BREEAM Security

Risk Assessment and Planning: 

The foundation of BREEAM security involves the completion of thorough risk assessments. Throughout the building’s design process, designers and architects can take preventative action by being aware of potential dangers and weaknesses.

Resilient Design Features: 

BREEAM promotes the incorporation of robust design elements which strengthen a structure’s resistance to unanticipated crises, natural catastrophes, and security concerns. This comprises materials that are impact-resistant, reinforced structures, and redundant systems for crucial services.

Access Control and Surveillance Systems:

The implementation of advanced monitoring systems and strong access control measures is in line with the security objectives of the BREEAM framework. Contemporary innovations that minimise environmental effects through energy-efficient networks, such as CCTV surveillance and biometric authorisation, improve building security.

Natural Surveillance and Landscaping: 

Windows, lighting, and landscaping should be placed strategically in buildings to include natural surveillance concepts. Preventing potential security risks improves visibility and encourages an atmosphere of community awareness. It also aligns with BREEAM’s emphasis on natural illumination and green spaces.

Integration of Sustainable Security Technologies: 

Adopting sustainable security technologies highlights the relationship between environmental sustainability and security, satisfying BREEAM requirements for lower energy consumption. Examples of these technologies include solar-powered security cameras and energy-efficient alarm systems.

Emergency Preparedness and Response: 

Establishing thorough plans for emergency response and holding frequent drills guarantees that residents are suitably equipped to handle security incidents or catastrophes, enhancing safety and lowering environmental effects by minimising wasteful use of resources brought on by panic.

Occupant Comfort and Well-Being: 

Security considerations are included in the BREEAM’s focus on occupant well-being. A comprehensive strategy for sustainability involves designing areas which protect without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.

The Effects And Advantages Of BREEAM Protection

Adding security features that meet BREEAM criteria raises a building’s ecological index overall. Long-term sustainability goals are fostered since they lower the risks connected with security events and create a more secure and resilient environment for residents.

Conclusion

Building fortification is only one aspect of BREEAM security; other goals include occupant safety, adaptability, and sustainable development. BREEAM strives to promote safety as a crucial component of holistic conservation by skillfully incorporating security techniques into environmentally friendly construction, producing resilient places that flourish in a world that is always changing.

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Sohel Rana

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