Business security is important. You likely spend as much, if not more, time at your place of work than at your own home. If you are an owner or a manager, it is up to you to ensure the safety of your staff and the business as a whole. If you are an employee and feel that safety measures are not up to par, you should communicate this with your boss and suggest ideas for making the workplace a safe environment for everyone.
Here are some tips that everyone can benefit from:
1. Create a code of conduct, and make sure everyone sticks to it.
This should be established from the inception of your business, and should include what behavior is and is not acceptable within the premises of the office, as well as punishment for such behavior. All employees must be given this document upon being hired, and should sign to show that they understand. As we mentioned, many people spend a large percentage of their time at work, so it is important to make sure everyone feels comfortable and at ease.
2. Prepare emergency plans.
Establish plans for emergencies, such as fires, robberies, theft and severe weather from the beginning. This should communicate where employees should go and what action should be taken, as well as contact information for police and other emergency services. Be sure to also include an evacuation plan with a meeting location. Again, train employees with this information.
3. Designate computer access.
Give each employee their own username within your office network, and designate access for them. This way you know what information each employee can access and can figure out issues that may come up with unauthorized changes. Make sure set passwords aren’t too easy or obvious, and that employees change them every 45 days or so.
4. Have adequate office security.
Having security measures in place from the get-go is better than waiting for something to happen before doing something about it. Lock all windows, doors and storage areas and monitor them frequently. Lighting is also important, both indoors and outdoors. Leave a light on inside at night so you can see any suspicious activity. Outdoor lights can provide safety for employees if they come in early or stay late. You may also want to consider a security system. A few good options for businesses are as follows:
- Monitored alarm system
- Unmonitored alarm system
- Wireless alarm system
- Outdoor alarm system
Contact Alert Protective Services if you would like to learn more about your business security options. Try our DIY services.
