Workplace security is important regardless of the type of business you are running. Therefore, you need to find ways to maintain overall security in your workplace whether you are running a lot of cash or have a lot of expensive equipment. Here are the top 5 steps from The Lock Boss to improve workplace security for the better.
1. Appoint A Workplace Safety Coordinator
As a business owner, you might not necessarily have the time to come up with the best workplace security measures. Well, the only way to foster accountability is by appointing a safety coordinator. He/she will be responsible for conducting regular audits on safety, interacting with the security team in the building, itemizing security issues for staff meetings and managing security improvements. He/she is responsible for networking with the rest of the tenants about any security issues.
2. Promote Your Workplace Security System
Most burglars will not target a home if there are security signs or CCTV cameras. Therefore, you can prevent a crime from happening in your office if the security measures in place are advertised accordingly. Start by placing warning signs at all the entry and exit points in the building. Also, make sure that all the members of your staff are interested in protecting your business. They should be willing to adhere to security policies and procedures and report any suspicious activities immediately.
3. Secure All Electronic Gadgets
Tech devices such as computers and phones are easy targets. They are also valuable when sold by criminals. Therefore, desktop items should be locked away when employees have stepped out of their desks. Also, personal items like handbags or wallets should not be left unsupervised. Take an insurance policy for your business to allow employees to carry their laptops home with them. As such, you should be able to reduce the potential costs of a robbery that happens outside of business hours.
4. Check The Exit And Entry Points Regularly
Broken elevators, open reception areas and fire escapes will give criminals access to your workplace. Start by asking your safety coordinator to identify and fix any weak spots in your property. Most criminals might gain access to the building through the doors or windows so they should be checked frequently.
5. Train Your Employees
For any business trading outside of normal working hours, you should encourage staff training on security issues. Some of the areas to focus on include the following.
• Safe handling and managing of cash
• Maintaining a safe routine when opening or closing the business
• Reporting and recording any suspicious activity.
The safety coordinator should ensure regular training sessions to maintain workplace security. They should be comprehensively structured for any new employees and the existing employees should have shorter refresher courses. Note that, staff might also be victims of personal crimes in the workplace. Make sure your staff members take care of their personal belongings and note their overall movements including the following.
• Employees should not leave their cash or personal valuables in accessible places.
• Staff should lock doors and windows when working alone or after hours.
• Employees working after hours should always walk out of the office with a security guard or colleague.
