MSU Enhances Security on Campus Following Shooting, ISC West Again Features Active Shooter Training for Security Pros

Officials at Michigan State University plan to review campus safety and security following a headline-making campus shooting last month. The school's publication, MSU Today, reports Michigan State University Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D., gave an overview of several actions the school plans to take. The university will also seek bids for an external after-action review of MSU’s response to the Feb. 13 incident.

Security professionals and law enforcement continue to grapple with deadly gun violence in school and university settings. The upcoming ISC West (March 28-31 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas) features the return of one of our most popular and vital educational sessions. The Active Shooter/Stop the Bleed Workshop originated after the Sandy Hook tragedy and has been a fixture at ISC West. Preparedness continues to be the best way to prevent and mitigate the effects of active shooter situations.

According to the MSU Today report, the improvements will examine four factors: building access, classroom and door locks, camera coverage expansion, and mandatory training.

Among the changes to building security measures, key card access will be required for current students, faculty or staff members from 6 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. the next day. The new policy will begin on March 13th. 

MSU will also begin to install a lock system that allows instructors to secure classrooms while also staying in compliance with building and fire codes. The locks will be installed in 1300 classrooms but will still enable first responders to enter the spaces in the event of an emergency.

The school also plans to expand its camera network. In addition to its current system of 2,000 cameras, additional cameras throughout campus, including in academic buildings, will be added. MSU Police and Public Safety are also working on an initiative to centralize all cameras and security systems at the university.  

Security professionals responsible for student  safety will benefit from the SIA Education@ISC session and the new products and technology available for review on the exhibition floor at ISC West. For more information on the event or to register to attend and take part in the Active Shooter/Stop the Bleed Workshop, visit the ISC West website.