• About one-third of small businesses have experienced workplace violence.
• Develop a comprehensive security plan that includes secure access points, adequate safety training, and strict personal safety policies.
• Ensure the premises are secured with a burglar alarm system, motion sensors, locked windows and doors, security cameras, and lighting.
• Conduct background checks on all new hires and personnel with access to confidential information and sensitive areas of the building.
• Check references and work history of any third-party contractors before hiring them.
As an employer, you are responsible for ensuring your workplace’s safety and protecting your employees from physical harm. Creating a safe and healthy workplace for your employees is essential to ensure their well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction. Unfortunately, violence and other safety hazards are common in many workplaces. A survey has uncovered that a shocking one-third of small businesses have experienced workplace violence, with 34% reporting serious threats or violent incidents.
To ensure that your workplace is as secure as possible, here are a few steps you can take to make sure your employees remain safe.
Create a Comprehensive Security Plan
The first step in ensuring your workplace is safe has a comprehensive security plan in place. This means taking the necessary steps to protect your employees from threats such as theft, violence, or other safety hazards. Start by doing the following:
Provide Employees with Secure Access Points
A secure access point should be provided to all employees entering and exiting the workplace. This includes installing an up-to-date alarm system and requiring employees to use identification cards or key fobs when entering or leaving the building. Furthermore, consider implementing security cameras around the entrance of the building to monitor any suspicious activity.
Provide Adequate Training on Safety Practices
It is important to ensure employees are educated on safety practices and procedures. Provide training sessions for your staff about issues such as handling violent situations, emergency response protocols, and evacuation procedures. You should also ensure that all employees know the security policies in place at the workplace.
Enforce Strict Policies Regarding Personal Safety
Personal safety should be taken seriously in any workplace. Ensure all employees are aware of the policies and procedures regarding personal safety, such as not allowing visitors without permission or requiring that doors remain locked at all times. Furthermore, consider providing self-defense classes for your staff to help them protect themselves in an attack or other emergency.
Secure the Premises
Ensuring the premises are secured should be another priority when considering employee safety. Here are the basic but proven ways to secure the premises:
- Install a burglar alarm system and motion sensors.
- Lock all windows, doors, and gates.
- Place security cameras in the common areas of the workplace.
- Ensure proper lighting around the exterior of the building and parking area.
- Appoint security personnel or security guards to monitor the area.
To ensure that you get the highest quality door hardware and other electronic access control, choose Banner Solutions. They offer a wide selection of products designed to provide maximum security and safety for your workplace, so you’re sure to find the perfect solution for your needs.
You can also look into installing fences that are tall and secure, as well as security lighting that will deter intruders. Additionally, consider adding emergency buttons to your building that employees can press in the event of an emergency or attack.
Conduct Background Checks
It’s also important to conduct background checks on all new hires and other personnel who may have access to sensitive areas of the building or confidential information about employees or customers. This includes vendors, contractors, or anyone else who may enter the premises or come into contact with employees during their workday. To start, it is recommended that you do the following:
Run Background Checks on All New Hires
Conduct criminal records search for anyone who may have access to the building.
Ensure contractors or vendors sign confidentiality agreements before entering the premises. Check your new hires’ employment history, references, and other relevant information to ensure they are suitable for the job.
Check Contractor’s References
Before hiring any third-party contractors, it is important to check their references and work history. Make sure they have the appropriate licenses and certifications needed to perform the job and that they are in good standing with any previous employers. If possible, visit the contractor’s site or a few of their past clients to ensure they are properly qualified and reliable.
While threats are impossible to eliminate completely, following these simple steps can help protect your employees and ensure they remain safe in the workplace. Taking the necessary precautions will also ensure that employees feel secure and protected while at work, allowing them to focus on their job without worrying about potential threats. Remember, when it comes to employee safety, prevention is key.
