Do you run, manage, or even own a commercial building? Or, are you one of the tenants of the said buildings? Then you know that the safety and security of a commercial building are critical concerns for business owners. A secure building not only protects against vandalism and theft, among others.
But, it also creates a more positive work environment for staff. And, it gives the building a welcoming atmosphere for clients. In this article, we will outline 10 steps to achieving a more secure building. Read on to learn how to do this for happier staff and joyful clients.
Step 1: Assess Security Risks
To start off the entire process of securing your building, it is very important to first assess the security risks of your physical location before implementing any security measures. This may include conducting a security audit or survey to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Step 2: Develop a Security Plan
Based on your assessment, develop a comprehensive security plan. Make sure that it is one that addresses potential risks. And, also ensure that it outlines specific measures to improve the security within the building.
This plan should include physical security measures that you can put in place and are visible. Examples of such are access control, alarms, and surveillance systems. Coming up with policies and procedures to guide staff in the event of an emergency is also important.
Step 3: Install Access Control Systems
Access control systems are an effective way to restrict access to sensitive areas of the building. This includes having keycards or biometric systems as a way to grant access. These are given to tenants, employees, and administrators.
By limiting access to only authorized personnel, you can reduce the risk of theft happening in your building. And, you can also limit unauthorized access to potentially confidential information.
Tinted windows can also come in handy for these. This is because you can prevent people from outside from casing your building. You can learn more about commercial window tinting and see how it can also be a way to limit access.
Step 4: Install Surveillance Systems
Surveillance systems, such as CCTV cameras, can be used to watch activities within the building. The presence of these cameras can also help to deter potential criminals. A well-placed camera can capture evidence of any suspicious or even criminal activity.
The footage that is saved and recorded can then be used to identify and prosecute perpetrators. This provides your building with a security blanket and insurance in case there is any illegal activity that does happen.
Step 5: Use Physical Barriers
Physical barriers can be used to prevent unauthorized access to the building or parking areas. You can use different types of barriers within the premises of the building. This includes fences, gates, railings, window guards, and even bollards.
These barriers can also be used to guide foot traffic within the building. This can be helpful in case you need to evacuate, or there happens to be high activity within the premises. It can also help in the prevention of possible accidental damage to the building or its surroundings.
Step 6: Put Appropriate Policies and Procedures In Place
Policies and procedures are critical components of a comprehensive security plan. These policies should cover a range of topics that can come up at any moment. This can include emergency response, access control, and incident reporting.
Make sure these are in the form of standard operating procedures, or SOPs. This can make informing staff easier and more efficient. By training staff on these policies and procedures, you can ensure that everyone knows how to respond in the event of an emergency.
Step 7: Conduct Background Checks
Before hiring new employees, conduct thorough background checks. This can help to ensure that they have no criminal history or prior convictions.
Take note that this is not encouraging anyone to stereotype those with priors. But, individuals with these kinds of histories, especially if repetitive, can pose a risk to your building’s security. So, doing effective background and character checks can help reduce the risk of internal theft or other security breaches.
Step 8: Make Sure to Review and Update Security Measures Often
Security threats can evolve over time, especially since technology is also growing more and more. So, it is important to review and update your security measures as often as you can.
This is to help you ensure that they remain effective. This may include upgrading surveillance systems or implementing new access control measures.
Step 9: Educate Staff and Clients
Educating staff and clients on the importance of security can help create a more secure environment. This may include providing training on emergency response procedures. You can also produce short handouts, slides, or even an informative video that you can distribute to people within the building.
And, you can also go about this by encouraging staff to report suspicious activity. Having these informative materials can help everyone work together in ensuring the building is always safe.
Step 10: Work With Security Professionals
Finally, consider working with security professionals. Make sure that these are the ones who can provide expert guidance on security measures and help put them in place well.
This may include hiring a security consultant or partnering with a reputable security company. You can also check and review your options by checking online, and asking for referrals from your network.
Having a Secure Building At All Times
Creating a more secure building is an ongoing process. It is one that requires careful planning, regular assessment, and ongoing education and training. By implementing the 10 steps outlined in this article, business owners can create a safer, more secure environment.
This will be beneficial for their staff and clients alike. And, they can also reduce the risk of vandalism, theft, and criminal activities in the building. So, make sure you also work with security professionals and review and update security measures often.
Doing so can ensure that your building remains a safe and welcoming place for years to come.
If you want more tips and guides like this one, visit our blog today!
