In the wake of increasing active shooter incidents (ASIs), particularly on educational campuses, a groundbreaking study led by Ruying Liu at the Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, is set to revolutionize our understanding and response to these tragedies. The research, published in ‘Developments in the Built Environment’ (which translates to ‘Developments in the Built Environment’), delves into the intricate web of factors influencing civilian behavior during ASIs and proposes a comprehensive framework to enhance safety and emergency management.
The study, employing the EVOLVE method, engaged experts through surveys, videos, prioritization exercises, and focus groups to identify key factors and responses. “We found that effective training and familiarity with the building layout are crucial,” Liu explains. “These elements significantly improve decisive actions and reduce passive behaviors like freezing or hiding ineffectively.” The research categorizes influencing factors into five groups: individual-related, building-related, situation-related, security-related, and shooter-related. It also identifies six civilian responses, ranging from running following a crowd to fighting back.
One of the most compelling findings is the need for universal disaster response strategies and standardized training for both first responders and civilians. Experts emphasized that understanding how various building design features can enhance safety is paramount. This includes everything from clear signage and secure hiding spots to robust communication systems.
The commercial impacts for the energy sector are profound. As campuses and public buildings increasingly integrate smart technologies and renewable energy systems, the design and management of these spaces must evolve to include robust safety protocols. Energy-efficient buildings, for instance, often have unique design features that could either hinder or enhance safety during an ASI. This research provides a roadmap for architects, engineers, and facility managers to design buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also safer in emergency situations.
Liu’s work also highlights the importance of developing a risk assessment system and a simulation platform to enhance emergency management. These tools could be game-changers for the energy sector, enabling better preparedness and response strategies. Imagine a campus equipped with smart sensors and AI-driven systems that can quickly assess and respond to an active shooter situation, minimizing casualties and ensuring the safety of all occupants.
The implications of this research extend far beyond immediate safety measures. It challenges the status quo, urging stakeholders to rethink building design, emergency protocols, and training programs. As Liu puts it, “We need to move beyond reactive measures and focus on proactive strategies that integrate safety into the very fabric of our buildings and communities.” This shift could lead to a new era of resilient and adaptive infrastructure, where safety and sustainability go hand in hand.
As the energy sector continues to innovate, integrating these findings into building design and management practices could set a new standard for safety and preparedness. The future of our built environment is not just about energy efficiency; it’s about creating spaces that are safe, resilient, and ready to respond to any crisis.