Although offices are usually thought of as safe and serene, in fact they’re rife with risks, both inside and outside the building. The Protection One security company recommends taking these safety precautions:
- Parking Lot Security/Lighting. Implement a “buddy system” to ferry workers to and from their cars. Limit parking lot access to controlled points and have the lots as well lit as possible. In fact, light is such a deterrent to crime that it’s wise to keep your entire facility lit, inside and out, during non-business hours.
- Entrance Area Safety. Make sure that reception areas are always manned, all visitors registered (even if they wear the uniform of contract cleaning or other service personnel), and all doors, windows, and locks checked frequently for proper operation. Use photo ID systems, with entry code systems checked often. Never let employees prop open a door with a chair so that it doesn’t lock behind them outside on a break.
- Suspicious Activity. Urge employees to report any suspicious persons or activity around the building. Never allow suspicious packages to be opened. Instead, report them to the authorities for proper search and disposal.
- Information Safety. Unfortunately, it’s increasingly easy for computer “hackers” or disgruntled employees to steal your organization’s vital business information. To guard against this threat, use the latest security software for your entire system, frequently updated, and make sure that this information is backed up on a regular basis. Shred paper documents with critical information as soon as they’re no longer needed.
- Equipment Security. Keep an inventory of all your critical equipment, hardware, and software. This is especially important as electronic devices keep shrinking in size, making them easier to conceal and remove. Having an inventory (many experts suggest taking photos of important items) will also make it easier for your insurance carrier to process any claim if anything “goes missing.”
- Employee Valuables. Provide secure places, such as lockable drawers and closets, for employee property and encourage their use. Valuables, especially any item that reveals personal information, should be locked away during company gatherings or break.
- Safety Team: Set up a group that includes both managers and employees that meets regularly with a set agenda.
For guidelines on keeping your office safe, please contact our risk management professionals.
