by Creating building security means protecting property, assets, and occupants from intruders, violence, and hazardous situations. The goal is to detect, deter, prevent, and respond to security violations. Misjudging the seriousness of building security can put everything and everyone in a building at risk. Conducting a risk assessment check, determining weaknesses, and implementing solutions are essential steps when reviewing security needs. Various ways to create a more secure environment include surveillance, access control, and security personnel.
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Implement Access Control Systems
Unauthorized visitors are a significant security issue for most organizations. It’s crucial to be able to identify everyone in a building and deny access to specific individuals. You can achieve secure access using traditional keys, ID badges, or advanced systems like fingerprint or retinal scanners. Employees must understand how a security system operates to secure the building.
Two-factor authentication is one of the most secure automation systems for buildings. It protects the user’s credentials and the building’s resources. The process requires users to verify themselves using two different authentication factors. The result is a higher security level than buildings depending on single-factor authentication, such as a password or passcode.
Surveillance Systems
Constant surveillance can play a crucial part in effective building security. Surveillance equipment helps protect stores, offices, schools, and buildings from intruders. Using security cameras for video surveillance helps security personnel monitor activities in critical areas. They can see activities in real time and review video footage. According to the business publication Chron, cameras can also effectively monitor employees with access to sensitive information.
There are surveillance technologies that alert the authorities when someone crosses certain boundaries. Technology ranges from laser sensors to thermal imaging cameras. This is equipment that can protect building interiors as well as the perimeter.
Reduce Security Hazards
While technology can identify and prevent security breaches, simpler, low-tech actions should also play a part in protecting your building. For example, placing a receptionist at the entry helps ensure unwanted visitors do not enter. Installing a turnstile near the entrance can act as a physical barrier. Add a logbook that all visitors must sign when they enter.
Identifying and eliminating physical security hazards, such as trees or hedges, that might become hiding places is essential. Ensure that the building and parking areas are always well-lit so intruders are not obscured. A fence or wall around a building can act as additional perimeter security.
Hire Security Personnel
Well-trained security personnel can also protect your building and its occupants. You may hire 24/7 security officers or opt for on-demand professionals. Security officers have experience dealing with many types of situations. A security team will respond in an emergency and handle the crisis. They are trained to deal with everything from perimeter security to fires.
Per FEMA, nonprofits may be eligible for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. It is an initiative that provides security funding for nonprofits like houses of worship threatened by terrorist attacks. The program helps protect buildings and offers security planning and training. Funding can pay for contract security officers, access control systems, surveillance cameras, and exterior lighting. Funds may also be used to install security fences and gates.
Building security is critical to protect occupants and physical assets. Technology in the form of access control and surveillance systems can monitor workers and visitors and identify intruders. Owners can build a fence, remove foliage that could hide intruders, and keep buildings well-lit. Another option is to hire on-call or round-the-clock professional security officers to guard buildings and act during emergencies
