With the New Year just around the corner, now is the right time to review your office’s security checklist to start 2022 off on the right foot. Even if you feel confident in the measures, you have in place, taking the time to review and ensure the safety of both visitors and employees is paramount. We will be going over what business owners should be on the lookout for and critical questions to consider when reevaluating the property.
General Maintenance Check
First and foremost, we need to look into general maintenance inside and outside the building. Properly maintaining your worksite demonstrates your dedication to cultivating a safe and clean environment for staff and tenants. Here are a few key areas to look into and questions to keep in mind when reviewing the property.
Lighting – Are all lights working as designed? Are there any areas, such as garages or stairwells, where the lighting should be installed?
Security Cameras – Is there any wiring damage? Is there anything such as a hedge or sign preventing a clear visual of the area?
Interior – Take this time to review any and all emergency exits, removing any potential obstructions or clutter. You can also use this time to assess high traffic areas and determine if they need any cosmetic work such as paint.
Exterior – Review landscaping; ask yourself if anything has become overgrown or no longer fits with the aesthetics of the building. Be mindful of any graffiti or paint damage while walking the property.
Property Accessibility
With general maintenance out of the way, it’s time to move on to property accessibility. In most cases, business owners only want their employees, clients, and vendors going past the main lobby of the building. Consider instructing security personnel to verify IDs and keep a well up to date visitor record, including in and out time stamps. By keeping clear records, you can note who is and isn’t on the premises. Providing an ID will have trespassers thinking twice before coming onto the property.
It’s important to note here that this is not the only way to have greater control of property accessibility. Every business is different with its own needs, and the buildings themselves can significantly vary in layout. Another approach you can look into is designated vital cards that have selected areas each can unlock. You’re in no way limited to only using one method. You can combine techniques to fit your business’s specific needs to get the best coverage.
Security Management
After regular business hours have concluded for the day, your building is at its most vulnerable. An empty office is viewed as an easy target for thieves, especially if any valuable assets such as electronics or anything holding real monetary value. Keep your office secure by choosing security systems that allow you to be alerted directly to any alarms or sensors. Accessing the office’s security measures remotely can give owners peace of mind in knowing their property is looked after no matter the hour.
In addition, business owners can take a proactive approach in hiring security for after-hours, having someone on-site while the office is closed can be incredibly beneficial in the event of a power outage or if the security system is failing to respond appropriately.
Start the New Year confident in knowing you have taken every step to provide a safe and welcoming environment for guests and staff alike. Contact our Apex Security team today to receive a quote and review of our offered services tailored to your business’s needs.