Have you ever wondered how to keep your workplace safe and secure? Are you constantly worried about a potential break-in, cyber-threats, violence, or even natural disasters? Some studies show that:
- Two-thirds of IT specialists worry about data leaks
- 27% of businesses have suffered a break-in
- 92% of businesses have reported financial losses, legal problems, or some problems with clients
- Two million workers report violence at the workplace every year
Securing your office is of primary importance. If you are feeling discouraged and overwhelmed, don’t worry. Here you will read some easy tips and tricks on how to improve your workplace security. Make sure your business remains safe.
Install Alarms and Surveillance Systems
Did you know that only 14% of businesses in the U.S. have video surveillance systems and alarms? If you own a business, then you know the cost can be very high and you may wonder if it’s worth the investment. The answer is – Absolutely!
This system helps resolve many security-related issues and discourages criminal activity. Alarms are useful in cases of burglary, or natural disasters, such as a fire. Make sure you purchase high-quality security cameras, possibly with remote access control. CCTV footage can be used in many cases, whether it’s a break-in or an office theft. According to experts at TeraPixels.net, the technology has advanced so much that now you can purchase custom-designed video surveillance security cameras that can adjust to your specific needs. Be sure to install outdoor cameras, as well as indoors. You can choose from a variety of different systems, such as:
- Cloud/Video Systems
- Wireless
- Hybrid IP
- Analog systems
Enforce Policies That Promote Security
Many people don’t understand the importance of policies, but they really help keep your workplace safe and secure.
There are three basic things you should begin with::
- Audit your existing policy
- Identify gaps
- Make the changes
Having a security policy is essential when you are creating a secure organization, no matter your business area or company size. It should include all the internal and external security goals, and that way you will be able to avoid any issues. The policy should consist of guidelines, rules, and definitions that then become a standard in the whole company. You should try understanding various aspects of workplace security, such as physical security, digital security, access control, alarm systems, etc.
Keep Important Spaces and Data Locked
This may sound obvious, but data breach is still one of the biggest problems. You may have some major legal complications, so make sure you are careful about it. Try establishing a policy of never leaving office, computers, and work cabinets unlocked. If your confidential documents are accidentally seen by a third party, that can be a serious violation of privacy.
Label and Monitor Office Equipment
Try labeling your office equipment with some unique inventory identifier, such as tags with your company logo. ID labels can be useful tools for staying on top of important property and increasing office security. Make sure you put the ID list in a visible place and check for missing equipment from time to time. This will help you maintain order and accuracy.
Hire Security Guards
Sometimes installing alarms and CCTV systems is just not enough, especially if your workplace is in fact an entire building. Why not hiring guards too? Seeing security guards at the entrance will immediately discourage criminals. They can also react to security incidents or conflicts in the office.
Implement Access Control
Imagine what would it be like if everybody had access to your building, office, or specific areas (e.g. server room). Well, it would be a security disaster.
Employees should have some kind of ID – a keyless card, or an ID badge with a photo. Make sure you provide guest cards for clients. That way you will always know who has entered and left the building. It’s wise not to leave guests in empty offices, unsupervised. Be sure they are always properly escorted, while in the workspace.
Invest in Advanced Safe
A security rated, fire-proof safe is a must-have when you are trying to increase your office security. Always store important documents and small, valuable pieces of equipment in a safe. Make sure you often change the combination and reduce the number of employees with access to it to a minimum. Consulting with your insurance company before installing the safe is always a good idea because you want to be sure it satisfied their standards.
Preventing security threats, injury, illness, or violence in your workplace is the most important job. Whether you are a manager or a business owner, keeping your employees safe is a huge responsibility. The goal is that all of you stay productive, stress-free, and work in a healthy environment.
