Blog

Security and safety concerns for office buildings in the winter

by Paul Kazlauskas

In November, I outlined various security strategies that office building security directors should consider, because security threats are larger and more varied than ever before.

That blog post covered security tips for “business as usual” times of the year. However, in many parts of the country, “business is not usual” during the winter, when cold temperatures and precipitation wear out security tools at a greater rate than in warmer months. In addition, new security and safety challenges present themselves.

POWER OUTAGES

For many parts of the country, snow is an inevitability in the winter months. Heavy snowstorms have a potential to result in power outages. A great tip to make sure your business stays up and running is to install an emergency backup generator that powers your essential systems (security systems, lights, computer systems, etc.). Plus, consider allowing your employees the option to telecommute (if possible) should you experience a heavy snowfall or other weather that leads to roads being unsafe to drive on. They can still get their work done and not have to risk injury from a car accident.

DARKNESS

The pre-winter months are a great time to evaluate your office lighting to ensure your facility is well-lit and ready to offset the longer hours of darkness in the winter. It is critical to inspect the outside lighting, which helps employees and visitors avoid potentially slippery surfaces and feel safer from being attacked or robbed. Potential lighting solutions include sensor-activated lighting, floodlighting, and lights activated on a timer.

After-hours internal lighting helps buildings look occupied at night, even when they may be empty. Vacant-looking buildings with no security lighting are targets for would-be intruders, and extended dark nights mean more opportunities for criminals to remain undetected.

ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE

Extreme weather and drastic temperature changes can sometimes weaken the integrity of doors and locks. This could cause hinges and screws to loosen or rust, wooden frames to rot or disintegrate, and doors to warp. All of these issues can reduce security, so it is important to keep an eye out for early signs of decay and then take the necessary measures to strengthen entrances and exits. In addition, prevent frozen and bursting pipes in your building by keeping a minimum heat level, even if you close for a period of time during the holidays.

SLIPPERY SURFACES

Be sure all exterior walkways are cleared of snow and ice, so they are safe for walking. Whether this chore is performed by internal maintenance personnel or an outside service, it provides the benefit of protecting your liability. Either way, it is a good tip to keep shovels, brooms and sidewalk salt on hand to help in case it snows during the day and the service hasn’t arrived yet.

Building owners and security managers have a responsibility to keep employees safe. The winter months provide circumstances that can lead to accidents and injuries; preparation is the best way to limit these. Think through the scenarios above and have an emergency plan in place for employees in case of severe weather. Use this guide from The Center for Public Health as a starting point and tailor it to your specific facility, employees, and part of the country.

What other security and safety ideas should facility owners and security managers consider during the winter months? Please feel free to add your thoughts in the “Comments” section below.

Want the latest, best security practices delivered straight to your inbox? Click the “Subscribe to the Blog" button (on the left side navigation).

Our visitor badges “VOID” overnight to prevent reuse. 
See them for yourself — request free samples!

 

Posted on 1/25/2017