For – Managers, Supervisors, Security Personnel.

Whether you operate a large corporation or you are a sole trader operating from the back of a van or vehicle or a small home based business you will need to consider sound security practices.

Security procedures are what shape and tie an organisation together. From start to finish, these procedures will be of assistance in protecting your business assets and staff. You may not always notice these procedures in operation, but if you have a comprehensive awareness and they are thoroughly embedded in your company and they are up to date, you are well protected.

Good security procedures begin at your front door. The detail that you need will depend on the size of your business. These procedures will define the guidelines or rules as to who can enter, when, where, how, and under what authority. Security provides structure and ensure compliance with insurance.

I don’t usually guarantee anything when it comes to security, but I will guarantee you this…Without good and comprehensive guidelines, you will have a breach at sometime, and you will lose money. (more…)

Think about the little things now.

Millions of dollars are lost each year through business security breaches, and yes, we all do it. Whether your business is large or small, little things should be taken into account as they can seriously undo your company’s security. Here are just a few examples:

• Staff taking cigarette breaks may leave an entry point to your building open. Smokers are usually desperate for a cigarette and they often have little or no regard for security. I have even seen staff who are friendly with the security guard, ask and get certain external secure/fire doors disarmed so they can go outside for a smoke. (more…)

Basic Conflict Resolution:

If someone enters your premises with the intent to cause trouble, you need to know how to deal with the situation quickly. If you have security guards on the front entrance (or any other public entrance) then they should be specifically trained to manage these types of situations.

If you are not employing guards, then you need specific people at the front of house, and procedures in place to manage any potential problems. This should also be part of your crisis management plan, and security procedures.

Your business should not have the front reception desk out of sight, or out of calling/voice range from other staff in the building. A good idea is to have ‘cross observation’; this means another desk or office which looks directly at your reception location from either behind, sides, or above. (more…)

Secure banking – some people do and some people do not.

How are your banking procedures?

I have seen the same designated staff member take money to the bank, on the same day at the same time and with an identifiable bank bag with the logo imprinted. Every time I see this (which is unfortunately often) I have to remind myself we are in the 21st century. It does however remind me of those old time Westerns where the bank clerk would walk around with large amounts of money in bags. And they usually got shot and robbed.

Why is that people of today seem to be unconscious of the huge risk they are taking with their money and their life? Anyone who is too relaxed in their banking habits will eventually attract a visit from a robber. And it could even result in someone’s injury or death. We just can’t predict when… (more…)