If your business has either private or public spaces that are utilized for business then you need to formalize your master “Workplace Security Plan.” These security plans are so essential that both state and federal agencies have published dozens of documents that help your business in addressing this topic.
A good security plan always starts with an assessment of the physical space and how access is controlled for both authorized and unauthorized individuals. Here is a simple check list to start with:
- Exterior Doors: Are they substantial enough to deny entry by force? Can they easily be opened in an emergency?
- Windows: Should not open far enough for a person to reach through to the latch.
- Locks and Keys: The major problems with lock/key security are the unaccounted for issuance of keys and unauthorized key copying.
- Interior Doors: The most common problems are unlocked office doors or doors left open.
- Areas that have restricted access: Designated areas of the workplace which have restricted access make it easier for employees to identify suspicious persons who should not be there.
- Architectural features to separate the public from service providers: Such features can help define restricted access areas.
- Alarms: Intrusion Alarms detect unauthorized entry during non-business hours. Duress alarms enable employees to call for help without being obvious to the person causing the problem.
Once you have assessed your physical space you need to address your security communication processes: How do you communicate a building lockdown? Can each section of your facility communicate with its adjacent sections? Can each section communicate with the main office? Do you have assigned roles for an security breach?
Finally: Is your plan integrated with your Health and Safety Plan, Emergency Evacuation Plan, and have you tested it?
