In the hustle and bustle of the week, our offices are places of constant activity where employees work diligently. When the weekend arrives, these spaces often become deserted, making them potential targets for theft, vandalism, or accidental damage. To help you secure your office during the weekend, we have assembled a comprehensive guide on maintaining office safety when it’s unattended.
Why Is Office Safety Important?
Several situations can jeopardise the safety of your office environment. These range from break-ins, theft, vandalism, to potential fires or floods that can occur when no one is present to respond immediately. Above all, protecting sensitive information and maintaining business continuity are paramount. Hence, keeping your office space secure is not an option but a necessity.
Top Strategies To Secure Your Office Space At The Weekend
Though some offices welcome weekend warriors through their doors on Saturdays and Sundays, the majority do still remain unoccupied. This is even more likely the case now that many offices have adopted hybrid working. The following tips are therefore essential in keeping your office safe and secure during weekends.
Secure Entry Points
Ensure all doors, windows and other possible entries are securely locked before leaving for the weekend. Regularly check on the structural integrity of these access points and consider installing additional security such as deadlocks or reinforced glass to tighten up security further.
Install Quality Security Systems
Security systems are a fundamental element in office security. This includes surveillance and 360 ceiling cameras, alarm systems, motion detectors, and access control systems. Make sure to keep these systems updated and regularly maintained.
Those that can be monitored via an app are best for peace of mind. There are several top security systems in the UK for offices which can be monitored via an app, and here are some of them:
- ADT Business Security: ADT is a well-known security company that offers solutions for businesses of all sizes. They provide 24/7 monitoring and a customisable system with options for video surveillance, intrusion detection, electronic access control and fire and life safety systems. Their app allows you to manage your security system and view real-time activity at your business.
- Verisure Alarm Systems: Verisure provides monitored alarms and security solutions for businesses. Their alarm systems are connected to their Alarm Receiving Centre, and when an alarm is triggered, they can respond in just 45 seconds. You can access the Verisure App to check in on your business from anywhere.
- SimpliSafe Office Security: SimpliSafe is a popular DIY security system. Their Business Security Package includes entry sensors, a glass-break sensor, and a SimpliCam. Through the SimpliSafe app, you can view camera footage, arm and disarm your system, and receive notifications if any sensor is triggered.
- Blink XT2 by Amazon: This is a wireless security system, making it easy to install. It has infrared night vision, motion detection, and two-way audio. Its app can be used to view live streams and clips, arm and disarm your system, and manage system settings.
- Ring Alarm Security Kit: The Ring system is easy to install and includes a base station, a keypad, a contact sensor, a motion detector, and a range extender. The Ring app allows you to control your system from anywhere and receive notifications when sensors are triggered.
- Yale Smart Home Alarm: Yale is another trusted name in home security. Their Smart Home Alarm system is a good choice for small businesses. It is expandable so you can add more components as needed. The Yale Home App lets you arm and disarm your system and get alarm notifications on your phone.
Remember, the best security system for your office largely depends on your specific needs. Always consider factors like the size of your office, your budget, and the specific features you require before making a decision.
Adequate Lighting
A well-lit exterior can deter potential intruders. Install motion-detection lighting around entrances, car parks and other vulnerable areas to startle, distract and deter. Just be warned that you might be doing the same thing to unwitting, curious animals.
To ensure motion sensor lighting for offices doesn’t harm animals, you should aim your lights away from animal habitats and towards your building, using shields or visors to limit light spillage. Adjusting sensor sensitivity can prevent smaller wildlife from triggering the lights, while timers or photocells can switch off lights when they aren’t necessary. Finally, opt for low-intensity, warm-colored lights, and consider using adjustable LED lights for their efficiency and long lifespan.
Secure Valuable Items & Information
Keep valuable items and sensitive documents in a secure location. If possible, consider using safes or lockable cabinets. Doors to rooms containing sensitive data should be locked when not in use.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks are critical to prevent damages that can occur over the weekend. This can include plumbing faults, electrical issues or potential fire hazards.
Many smart security systems now include options for smoke and flood sensors. These systems are connected to an app which can send alerts to your smartphone if a sensor is triggered, regardless of where you are. Additionally, some CCTV systems can be used with smart analytics software to detect fires or water leaks and send alerts. Of course, if you’re delegating the monitoring of such systems to an employee, they should be paid in full for their time spent doing so.
Considerations For Long Weekends & Holiday Periods
Longer periods of unoccupancy, such as holiday periods or even an office relocation, may require additional measures. Inform local law enforcement about your absence, request regular patrols and consider hiring a security service for monitoring.
The Role Of Staff In Office Safety
Staff can play a crucial role in maintaining office safety. Ensure they are trained to follow safety procedures, understand the importance of securing personal belongings and shutting down computers and equipment properly, particularly when breaks extend over longer stretches of time than just the weekend.
Implementing A Clear Desk Policy
Implement a clear desk policy where employees are encouraged to remove all documents from their workspaces at the end of every day. This can help prevent sensitive information from being exposed to potential intruders.
The Bottom Line
Keeping your office space safe when it’s unoccupied at the weekend requires planning and proactive measures. By following the strategies outlined above, you can mitigate risks and secure your business premises effectively. Remember, a robust security system is an investment, not an expense.