Development of TEEX’s affordable risk assessment software complete

After two years of design and development by a team of Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) multi-risk experts, the Secure Assessment Software Tool, or SAST, was completed in December 2008.

The Web-based, encrypted software is designed to help risk managers identify physical security system vulnerabilities and define and address shortfalls in planning, equipment and training. In addition, the software can construct a comprehensive mitigation strategy and generate easy-to-comprehend reports which clarify security issues for decision-makers.

The SAST was developed using TEEX instructors’ years of extensive training experience in both private and public sector safety and security.

“We understand the complexity in which the health, safety and environmental community works,” said Charles Baisey, TEEX Public Safety & Security Training Director. “We also understand the need to communicate risks in a clear manner.”

TEEX, a part of The Texas A&M University System, is world-renowned for its hands-on training and technical assistance.

“The advantage of being associated with Texas A&M University is to contribute as a true extension service by supporting America’s corporate and government missions at the service level,” said Sam Cox, TEEX Public Safety & Security Training Manager. “We wanted to develop an affordable tool which will allow risk managers to do better assessments and mitigation.”

Affordability

Perhaps the most intriguing feature of the software is its affordability. The basic cost of the SAST is $4,995. Other software with less functionality can cost more than $100,000.

The software is scalable to the size you need, and the price can change due to the amount of site licenses and technical assistance and training needed.

Who could benefit from this software?

The SAST is designed to provide security assessments for an array of entities including, but not limited to, healthcare providers, petro-chemical facilities, manufacturers, school districts, universities, port authorities, hotels, entertainment venues and emergency managers. In addition, independent risk and security assessors would benefit from using the software.

Complex reporting made simple

The software allows safety, risk and security professionals a means to address multiple types of facilities and various risk levels through easy-to-input risk factors. It then places the corresponding analysis into an executive summary which is easily presented to executives who may not have an understanding of health, safety and environmental issues. The software is designed to handle as many as 10,000 assets.

“Many of the security vulnerability evaluation tools currently being used are very complex in reporting and layout, and are hard to understand,” added Frank Farmilette, Operations Manager for the SAST Development Team. “The SAST is rich in content, tested on its analytics, and easily understood in an intuitive map format.”

Learn more about the SAST

For more information about how the SAST can help you and your company, please call (800) 704-8919.

About the Texas Engineering Extension Service

TEEX, a member of The Texas A&M University System, offers hands-on, customized first responder training, homeland security exercises, technical assistance and technology transfer services impacting Texas and beyond. TEEX programs include fire services, homeland security, law enforcement, public works, safety and health, search and rescue, and economic development.