The company should prioritize the security of their employees while they are working in the office. Aside from ensuring they do not get infected by the virus, the company should also ensure they remain protected from other threats to their safety and security. Here are the ways companies can ensure the safety and security of their employees while working onsite.
Have a safety and security plan in place
A safety and security plan is important for any business, but it is especially important for companies that have employees working in the office. The safety and security plan should include a list of procedures that employees should follow in the event of a safety or security incident. It should also include a list of contact information for emergency services and other necessary personnel.
The safety and security plan should be reviewed regularly to ensure that it is up-to-date and relevant. Employees should be familiar with the contents of the plan and be able to implement it in the event of an emergency. For instance, the company can install commercial fire doors to protect the office from fires that can happen in the building. The doors should be designed to solve fire and smoke safety issues. They should also conform to any local, state, or federal regulations.
Install security cameras and alarms
Security cameras and alarms are important to protect the office against intruders. They serve as an early warning system that can detect people who pose a threat to the employees’ safety. They should be installed around the building, especially in areas that are dark or not well-lit at night. For instance, they should be installed near dumpsters, loading docks, and parking lots.
Security cameras should be installed inside as well as outside the building. Entryways and exits are important areas of the office to monitor by security cameras. For instance, a camera system can be used to monitor the door access control systems. It can also help record videos of anybody who enters or leaves the front entrance of the office.
Make sure employees are aware of their surroundings
Employees should know where to take shelter if there are dangerous situations in the office, such as a chemical spill or fire outbreak. They should also be aware of suspicious people that lurk outside the office or near dumpsters and parking lots. This can help them avoid putting themselves in harm’s way.
In addition, employees should be aware of the nearest emergency exits in the building and how to use them. They should also familiarize themselves with security alarm systems installed on doors and windows. Employees can also receive training from a security consultant that focuses on safety and security in the office.
Make sure all entrances and exits are secure
All entrances and exits of the building must be secure and properly monitored. All windows should have locks, and any broken windows should be fixed as soon as possible. Entrances to the office should also include security guards so strangers can’t enter or exit without permission.
Employees who work in remote locations such as at home or another facility provided by the company can also benefit from getting safety and security training. This training should teach them about ways to avoid putting themselves in danger while working outside their usual office location.
Have an emergency plan in place
Most companies have standard plans for emergencies that may affect their business operations. For instance, they may prepare a plan when there is bad weather that can cause disruptions to their operations. Employees should know what to do if there is a fire in the building, an earthquake, or a power failure that causes the office to lose electricity.
Employees should know where to take shelter during emergencies. They also need to be aware of escape routes and emergency exits they can use when it’s necessary to evacuate the office. An emergency plan can be created by a security consultant or by the local police department if it’s necessary to involve them in the process.
Train employees on safety and security procedures
Employees should be trained on security best practices that they can use in the office. The training can be part of their orientation or job training, or it can take place periodically so employees are aware of new security initiatives for the business.
Some examples of topics discussed during safety and security training include building layout, what to do in an emergency, and emergency procedures. Employees should also know where to find safety equipment in the office, such as fire extinguishers and other tools that can assist during an emergency.
Companies need to have safety and security procedures in place to protect their employees. The office should be equipped with security cameras, alarm systems, and locks on all windows. Employees should be aware of their surroundings and know where to take shelter during emergencies. They should also receive training on safety and security procedures that they can use in the office.
