CONSIDERING that the workplace is where people spend the majority of their day, the environment needs to be as secure as your own home, says Ivan Govender, district manager (KwaZulu-Natal) for Fidelity ADT. According to Govender, the most prevalent security issues encountered at business premises are criminals posing as customers, doors left unlocked and keyholders not coming out to the premises to unlock for security when the alarm is activated.
“Incidents also arise from insiders leaking information to criminals about the delivery of high-value electronic goods, banking routines or security protocols. Unsecured entry onto the premises by, for example, contractors, is also a big problem,” he said.
Govender offers top tips for making the workplace more secure.
“Do a risk assessment evaluating your current procedures and systems. Once the assessment is done, follow up the findings with a solid plan and procedures. Involve your staff. It is very important that staff are involved in formulating the very best security plan for the business. All staff, including those who haven’t been assigned a specific security duty as part of the overall plan, need to be on board and committed to a safe working environment,” he said.
Govender said employees should carry a panic button with them at all times and should not hesitate to press it if they suspect something is wrong, and that they should know the emergency procedures.
“Take responsibility for who enters and leaves the building. Ensure visitors, including contractors, are escorted to their appointments within the building at all times. Report strangers in the building to security immediately,” he said.
He said employees should lock all their personal valuables away and also ensure all doors and windows are properly secured before leaving. Employees should know how to use the alarm system, he said.
Govender said while it isn’t always easy for big businesses to control access, smaller businesses must concentrate on this vulnerable area of the premises. Staff should be trained to identify suspicious activity and people and know what to do and who to contact in an emergency.
“For those businesses that have tenants renting space be sure to include them in the security plan. Some focus areas could be access control, locking up the premises, handling of cash on the property and alarm activation. Remember that one tenant who does not follow security procedures puts all other tenants at risk,” said Govender.
He said if employers and employees work together, the risk of falling victim to criminals can be significantly minimised at a business premises.
