ABSTRACT
After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the subject of security in infrastructure facilities gained interest among engineers, security professionals, and public and private entities. Drinking water facilities, waste treatment plants, electrical generation plants, natural gas pipelines, and communication networks serve thousands of communities within the country. They are the most important support for life in the built environment, bringing communities to civilized standards of life. Infrastructure is the most feasible indicator of the economic capacity of the United States and most advanced countries, at the same time is susceptible to potential threats with devastating consequences for human life and economy. Most governments view critical infrastructure as those assets, services, and systems that support the economic, political, and social life of a country whose importance is such that any entire or partial loss or compromise could:
Cause large-scale loss of life Have a serious impact on the national economy Have other grave social consequences for the community Be of immediate concern to the national government
Critical infrastructure is categorized as these major sectors:
Communications Emergency.services EEnergy and power suppliers and distribution Finance Food and food supply Government and public service Health Public safety Transportation systems:.air,water,sea,rail
The most common risks for infrastructure facilities arise from natural disasters, human mistakes, crime, sabotage, and terrorism. Infrastructure facilities design aims to protect buildings from natural disasters, reduce the possibilities of human errors, and protect working personnel from the event of an accident. Although the focus is primarily on natural disasters, sabotage or terrorist attacks also must receive design considerations. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles bring a new perspective to critical infrastructure buildings in order to protect these facilities against potential crime, sabotage, and terrorism and natural disasters.
