by Brianna Crandall — May 22, 2015—Acknowledging that protecting businesses from crime should be a priority for business owners and managers, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) has released the tips below through its Alarm.org site to help keep employees, customers—and the bottom line—safe. ESA notes that threats can come at a business through a variety of vectors both from outside and from within.
Security upgrades:
- First and foremost, a security plan should ensure the only people in an office are those who are authorized to be in there. Install an access control system and make sure all employee-only areas are secured behind a system of access-controlled locked doors. Find a trusted security company to design and install a security system that fits the business’s needs.
- A video surveillance system, especially one whose presence is known to employees and visitors, can help discourage would-be assailants and help law enforcement identify suspects in case of an incident. Find a trusted ESA member company to help choose a video surveillance system.
- Other structural improvements to increase security include silent alarm systems, panic buttons, bright and effective lighting, and height markers on doors to help discourage and prevent potential crime.
Policy tips to keep a workplace safe:
- Establish workplace policies regarding visitors that may include limiting visitors to certain public areas and for limited amounts of time.
- Maintain adequate staff numbers. Studies indicate the presence of more employees improves workplace safety and discourages criminal activity.
- Conduct background checks on all potential employees as necessary.
- Keep only a limited amount of cash on site at any given time, while making frequent, monitored deposits to a bank by a trusted employee.
- Maintain policies on concealing employees’ personal items and valuables both at their workstations and in their vehicles.
- Make sure employees do not work alone, and have a “buddy system” in place so employees know who to turn to in case of emergency.
Alarm.org is an online resource for consumers interested in electronic security. The site provides comprehensive information about choosing, installing and operating an electronic security system. It also offers relevant and important security facts, news and tips. Alarm.org is powered by the Electronic Security Association (ESA), a national professional trade association that represents the electronic life safety, security and integrated systems industry.
