Physical security is a critical element for businesses — in 2022 alone, 28% of organizations experienced a rise in physical security incidents, Pro-Vigil’s ‘The State of Physical Security Entering 2023’ report unveiled. For business leaders, security is a major responsibility that contributes to general workplace safety, data protection, and industry compliance. While the integration of an access control system can go far in physical security endeavors, the role of a business leader extends to other crucial elements. From the development of security policies to the role of a security-first workplace, leaders can transform the security of a business in major ways.
An avenue to heightened physical security
Access control systems are a great way to physically protect a business, whether the goal is to safeguard certain locations within the workplace or create a more secure building altogether. Research labs, hospitals, universities, and hotels are just a few businesses that use such systems in order to protect certain restricted areas, whether it be to protect valuable data or generally restrict public access. One Security Magazine interview with Andrew Campagnola, vice president of strategic initiatives at VTS. Campagnola highlights the value of access control systems in today’s modern office buildings. “Think of access control as the foundational element that enables various other security strategies to work more effectively,” Campagnola explains. In addition to the accomplishment of access control, it’s explained that these systems are able to provide insight into data that can further enhance the security of the building, such as abnormal trends in access frequency. Campagnola goes on to note that this information can become useful in further security enhancements (like hiring security personnel).
From assessing security needs to implementation
In the realm of workplace security, business leaders can take action through the development of successful policies. In addition to routine security audits to assess risk and efforts over time, the identification of an organization’s security needs and threats is a great place to start, and can help determine what measures are most needed. The establishment of security perimeters is just one tip highlighted by Byron Miller for Security Magazine. “Walls that act as barriers, card-controlled entry doors and staffed reception desks should be used to protect an organization’s facilities,” Miller writes. For businesses that wish to implement an access control system for the first time, leaders can play a critical role.
When the goal is to implement an access control system, leaders may be responsible for defining access control requirements, such as user roles, in addition to verifying credentials. This may involve determining which type of access control methods are used, with options that range from biometrics to smart cards. Access control systems that utilize card verification can be a realistic and more affordable option when compared to biometric systems, and are commonly used across a variety of industries. Organizations that plan to implement an access control system that utilizes card verification have additional considerations, however, such as card size. The CR80 card is a practical solution for workplace access control systems due to its size and dimensions. With standard dimensions of 3.375 inches by 2.125 inches (and a thickness of 0.016), this option is an ideal ID card size that can comfortably fit alongside an employee’s other cards.
Engagement for a workplace that prioritizes security
One of the biggest responsibilities that business leaders have is to implement and encourage a positive workplace that puts security at the forefront of daily operations. While it can be a challenge to get everyone on board, providing routine training is a great way to engage and inform employees on a company-wide scale. This includes the ins and outs of a new access control system, the importance of keeping track of access control IDs, and a comprehensive understanding of emerging security threats. One of the best proactive approaches that leaders can take, however, is to simply lead by example — demonstrating proper security protocol, sharing helpful tips, and starting discussions are just a few ways to do this. Providing tools such as security workshops (where various scenarios can be practiced) and even simple lanyards to help keep track of access control IDs can further elevate the topic of security.
Aside from routine and updated training sessions, leaders can further engage employees through regular, positive security meetings, which will further integrate the topic into workplace communication. One Forbes article by Virginia Hogan highlights several points regarding a leader’s role in the creation of a positive workplace culture. This includes communicating the organization’s vision and values, in addition to recognition (and reward) of those who demonstrate positive behaviour. Hogan’s advice can easily apply to leaders who wish to integrate the topic of workplace security into a positive workplace atmosphere. For example, leaders can communicate the business’s security goals for the month ahead and reward employees who demonstrate proper protocol in regard to the new access control system. Employees who always bring their security ID to work or go out of their way to share security protocol with coworkers, for instance, can be recognized for their efforts with a gift card or company swag.
Workplace security is an integral aspect of any company, with leaders playing a critical role in both the implementation of new protocol and the enforcement of initiatives. Through the development of security policies to the creation of a positive workplace that makes security a priority, leaders can cement themselves in an integral role with ease.