Safety & Security Tips for the Workplace

Emergencies, accidents and incidences can happen anywhere, at any time. Most workplaces have efficient safety & security systems enforced by police, security officers or at the very least, vigilant employees but many don’t. Follow these tips for implementing policies & procedures that will keep you, your workmates and your workplace safe and secure. 

Plan

Nothing beats being prepared! Make sure that your entire team is up-to-date on company safety & security policies. If there aren’t any policies officially in place, now is the time to instigate a meeting and make that happen! Once they have been established, instate regular meetings to ensure that everyone (including new employees) remains cognizant of the company standards. Typically, these include preventative practices, incident protocols and chain-of-command strategies. In other words, what to do to avoid a situation, what to do if you can’t, and who to turn to for support when you do.

Safety

Sanitation is a key element in keeping you and your co-workers safe. Ensure that your workplace has a stash of cleaning products and disinfectants. On the personal hygiene note, keep soaps and hand sanitizers stocked in the restrooms and maintain a healthy, easily accessible collection of First Aid supplies.

Of course, preventative strategies go a long way in keeping that First Aid kit on the shelf where it belongs. Some general examples include following the manufacturers’ guidelines when operating equipment, storing combustibles away from heat sources and keeping surfaces and floors clear of debris (Of course, the particular details will be specific to your workplace). If you encounter an incident, you’ll have to act fast! Have company-wide security, emergency and disaster plans in place. Also, make sure you have updated phone lists that include emergency contact information for employees, clients, and local emergency services.

Security

No business is immune from crime! Ensure that all exits and entrances to employee areas are secure at all times. Coded combination door locks and key cards/ID badges are excellent ways to monitor staff traffic and protect more sensitive areas of your workplace. When leaving work, shut the windows, turn off electronic devices and lock the doors before setting the alarm system. When you arrive in the morning, keep your eyes open. Ultimately, your job is to be aware – of anything or anyone that seems suspicious or troubling.

On the subject of alarms, a good security system goes a long way in crime prevention but only if it isn’t compromised. Video systems or CCTV provide the most thorough solution. Whatever tactic you choose to employ, make sure that the security code is known only to staff members who have legitimate use for it; and even then, it’s good practice to change the code regularly.

It’s crucial that you invest in security solutions for your company’s electronic equipment, too. Not only does your digital privacy and functionality rely on it but the equipment is very expensive to replace, as well. Invest in security cables, security slippers and shoes (clamps) to protect your hardware, and download the latest firewall and virus protection software for your software. Play it safe!
Whatever your business, sensible protocols and smart tools will improve the safety and security of your workplace.