A complete guide to workplace security

As an employer, you have a legal duty under The Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) 1974 to ensure any potential risk of work-related violence is eliminated or controlled, as well as keeping employees and others safe. You should regularly review your workplace security to make sure you are adhering to the law and to identify any weak spots. So, what are the things you should be doing? 

Work space security

Security starts with our own work spaces. Whilst the business may have all the security measures in place to prevent burglars, we still could be victim to scams with visitors pretending to be officials to gain entry. Make sure employees are taking valuables home and not leaving them out in the open, especially if there are no security cameras around. Drawers and filing cabinets that can be locked are ideal so staff can lock away any gadgets and paperwork with sensitive information on. Make sure your workers are in the habit of storing valuables safely.

Cybersecurity tips

Cybersecurity forms a major part of your overall workplace security, especially when it’s been reported that 95% of cybersecurity breaches are caused by human error. Top cybersecurity tips to take on board are:

• Train staff on cybersecurity procedures and how to use tech
• Set up filters on web and email
• Encrypt and back up data
• Install trustworthy anti-virus and hacking technology
• Restrict admin rights and limit employee access
• Review your passwords and make sure they’re strong  
• Dispose of computers and media safely

Train staff

It’s important to create a culture of safety and security in the workplace. Your staff should be confident in using systems, accessing and locking up. Make sure to arrange refresher training sessions - a good time is when new employees start - so everyone is familiar with safety and security procedures. You could even involve employees in the planning process for these procedures. Do they know what to do if they see suspicious activity? What about when handling cash? Policies should be reviewed and updated accordingly, and shared promptly for all employees to reference, along with regular training sessions.

Check your premises regularly

Book in time to do a walk around your premises every so often to look out for any signs of damage, attempted break-ins, or faulty equipment, windows and doors. Check all entry and exit points to spot any vulnerabilities or weak points. If you have noticed signs of a break-in, review your security footage, and if you don’t have CCTV, consider installing some cameras around these areas.    

Access control

Make sure you know who has a key or fob to enter and always collect them off employees that are moving onto pastures new. There are a range of access control systems available, like biometrics, key cards, and codes to only allow authorised personnel in. If you are in a shared building, always inform reception if you are expecting visitors and who they are, and to always buzz first before letting anyone in. You can also install an access control system to keep unauthorised personnel away, as well as manage your staff’s entries and exits. 

Security gates

To control which vehicles access your premises, you can install a range of security gates to help with this. From bi-folding gates and automatic sliding gates to manual gates and automatic swing gates, they are all made with safety in mind. Security gates not only provide great protection, but they work as a brilliant deterrent as your business stands out as one with high standards. 

Car park management and barriers

If you run a hotel, restaurant, school, airport or leisure complex, a car park management system is ideal with a range of payment options available. Car park barriers can be tailor-made for many types of industries, no matter the size or location of your premises. They can be manual or automatic and give your property, and can be integrated with any access control system.

Security bollards

Security bollards are perfect for lower budgets. They’re impact tested and provide a great layer of protection against unauthorised vehicles or when you need to lock up a car park overnight.

Anti-terrorism security

If your business is in an area that’s more vulnerable to attacks, or the business itself is a high target for terrorism - such as police stations, power stations, military bases and airports - then opting for anti-terrorism road security is a smart move. Crash tested bollards and road blockers have been certified by an independent body to ensure they meet industry standards and provide a robust security measure. For instance, road blockers are tested to withstand forces equalling that of a 7.5-tonne truck driving at 80kph.

Security alarm system

Having a high-quality security alarm system integrated with CCTV is highly beneficial for a business. And, if you do have a security system in place, make sure it’s obvious and promoted to deter potential burglars. Put up clear warning signs about your security system around the perimeter of your premises and at all entry and exit points. 

Security lighting

One thing burglars do not like is being placed under the spotlight. Security lights are a great security measure to highlight any suspicious activity after hours. Another good thing about business security lighting is to fool burglars into thinking the business is still in use.  

Mark equipment

You can use UV (ultraviolet) pens to put invisible marks on equipment and assets that can only be seen under UV light. Don’t mark them with your business’s postcode in case you move to another office location. Mark them with a code or reference that you can verify with the police if any stolen items are ever retrieved. Engraving or etching is also a great method for marking your assets. You can also ID mark your items with a permanent visual security marking to warn people.  

Shutters and bars

Opt for roller shutters over windows and entry points to provide an extra layer of security. Bars on windows are also an option, especially if you have a lot of expensive and high-quality technology visible. 

Safes

Safes are perfect for keeping paperwork, contracts, money and other highly valuable documents or items in if you need physical back-ups. Just make sure combination codes are only shared with a few select, trusted employees and that they’re updated regularly, especially if an employee with the code leaves. Clearly state this in any policies and handbooks, too. 

Manned security

Depending on your business, you may need to hire manned security services. Security kiosks will keep security guards warm and sheltered in robust structures whilst they control which vehicles enter and exit the premises. 

No matter what security measures you have in place, remember to keep reviewing, do perimeter checks, and train staff. If you’re looking to improve your workplace security, let Expert Security UK help. Whatever your business size and location, we can help with installation. Start with a conversation, contact our friendly, expert team today.