A Guide to Business Security Planning
Safety and security is a major concern for all facilities managers, in terms of protecting their premises, the workforce and people passing by. Security hazards can not only put buildings at risk from theft or vandalism but they can also pose a danger to employees and the public. Putting a business security plan in place and regularly reviewing it is vital to avoid any possible breaches or risks. It is particularly important that security plans are reassessed if buildings and premises are to be left either vacant for any period of time or are in the process of being refurbished. A business security plan should assess and
identify any risks that may compromise the safety and security of staff and sites as well as highlighting what measures will be taken to protect them. Considering any planned alterations to occupancy, design and layout will also help manage safety and security threats. Assessing IT security, especially in relation to business continuity and data protection, is also vital and should form part of the business security plan. Here, Michael Knibbs, Managing Director, SafeSite Security Solutions outlines the key considerations when developing your business security plan:
1. Business security risk assessment
This important first step will identify the security risks to your premises making it easier to set out the right measures to prevent them. The risk assessment should cover the following features of your buildings: Occupancy, design and layout –
Assessing these factors is paramount, particularly if the buildings were not originally or specifically designed for their current purpose. Any planned refurbishments and
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alterations may present new security risks so these aspects should be regularly reviewed to minimise potential threats and dangers. Signage – As well as advising people
about possible dangers, warning signs and information notices are an effective way of helping to secure a vacant building or site that is under construction. It could mean the difference between someone trying to enter – or even illegally break-in – to the property or not. These notices could highlight security or surveillance systems that are in operation or warn against potential hazards to avoid. If the protected area is part of a construction site, it is a legal requirement to display suitable signage. Alarms and site surveillance – It’s wise
to give some consideration as to whether buildings could be better protected by a visible alarm or surveillance system, such as CCTV. Not only are CCTV cameras a successful deterrent against would-be thieves and vandals but they also capture vital evidence in the event of any criminal activity. Installing a surveillance system also means that buildings and grounds can be monitored round-the-clock, avoiding the expense of hiring security guards. Fencing, gates, door, windows – securing all building and site access points is an important step towards maintaining physical business security. This may mean hiring or purchasing temporary fencing (to secure areas under construction) and timber and steel hoarding to prevent access and protect windows. Gates, doors and other access points should have strong locking mechanisms and the addition of security doors provides an extra barrier against unwanted trespassers.
Utilities including lighting and power
– adequate lighting not only provides a comfortable working space, it is also useful security measure. Motion detector lights have the dual benefit of welcoming visitors and keeping vulnerable areas lit after dark.
2. Staff safety
Measures to ensure staff safety and security are paramount. If a security breach occurs then workforce safety is the primary priority. The Health & Safety Executive, the independent national regulator of workplace health and safety aims to reduce work place death, injury and ill health. Its website contains guidance around protecting people against risks in the workplace.
3. IT security
Every business needs to ensure its IT data and systems are protected against external threats. This includes all computer-based systems, hardware and software. This is not only essential for security and business continuity purposes but the new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), which came into force at the end of May 2018, place additional responsibilities on organisations that collect, store and use personal data. The Information Commissioner’s website provides a wealth of information about the provisions of the GDPR to help organisations comply with its requirements. As with all types of premises plans
the best way of ensuring the business security plan continues to meet the needs of the organisation is to regularly test it and ensure it is updated when any changes to buildings or the workforce occur.
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