25 Jun Building Security Tips
Companies are affected by damaged, stolen, compromised internal files and property; vandalism; theft and IT vulnerabilities. Therefore, companies should conduct security assessments and create security plans that address these vulnerabilities. These plans should include access, perimeter and parking and internal security strategies, such as an active alert system.
Assessment and Plan
During periodic assessments, existing security plans should be analyzed and adapted to address changes in the neighborhood, city and company. Building weaknesses should be evaluated and addressed. Possible threats and their probability should be identified.
A plan should include the security director and personnel’s duties and responsibilities. These plans detail all security measures, including cameras and key management. They should discuss security personnel locations and mobility. Security plans may also include employee access authorizations throughout the building. They should include security training for employees.
Emergency procedures should be detailed in the building plans. Building security should include surveillance that immediately alerts authorities in case of an emergency or attack. Finally, open communication with authorities should be established in emergency situations.
Access
All entry points, including windows and doors, should be secured. Building access can be managed through creative landscaping that direct individuals to specific exits and entrances, reducing the monitoring requirements. Physical barriers, such as turnstiles, and electronic barriers, such as keypads, control panels and card readers, may also be used to slow and verify authorized access.
A receptionist or reception area will increase access security. For example, a receptionist may manage visitors and verify employee ID based on an up-to-date directory.
Building visitors should be managed. For example, they may be required to sign in, wear a visitor badge, or be accompanied by security.
Perimeter and Parking
The outside of the building and parking areas should have adequate lighting, including motion-detected lighting, and security camera surveillance. Security personnel should also walk the perimeter and parking areas. Landscaping should be trimmed back. Intercoms and card access to garages may be implemented as well.
Internal Strategies
To protect data and building employees, elevators may have card readers that restrict access based on ID cards or badges. In addition, rooms with sensitive data or other vulnerabilities should have locking doors, CCTV surveillance and intruder or emergency alert systems.
Regular assessments of your building security plan should be conducted, and your plan should be regularly adjusted for security weaknesses. In addition, your plan should include access, parking and perimeter and internal security measures to protect your assets and people.
No Comments