A perceptual assessment of personal safety in relation to university campus facilities

This research explores users' perceptions of personal safety in relation to university campus environments. This useful exercise in facilities management provides guidance on how the physical facilities of the campus may be modified, if necessary, to enhance users' sense of personal safety. The research uses a methodology derived from an earlier study of railway stations, which resulted in extensive additions and alterations. Perceptions are a valid source from which to identify issues of concern for campus users and in the development of appropriate solutions to ensure that university facilities promote personal safety. Using the University of Glamorgan as a case study, the authors used QuickTime software to produce virtual representations of the campus environment as an environmental stimulus in a series of focus groups to explore campus users' perceptions. As well as identifying locations on campus that generated fear, those which inspired positive senses of personal safety were also considered. Preliminary findings demonstrated that although the University of Glamorgan is a relatively safe campus, users expressed some concern for their personal safety at night. A perceived increase in risk was particularly related to the lack of natural daylight, insubstantial levels of street lighting and a reduction in the social presence.