Security Needs All Employees

Many employers have their own security departments. The Wall Street Journal reports that whether an employer has a security department or not, it’s time for all employees to take responsibility for providing security for the employer and each other. Stickups and burglaries are increasing at all kinds of businesses.

As the recession has driven people to desperate measures, traditional targets for theft — cash-heavy businesses like banks and convenience stores — have beefed up security, driving robbers to unsuspecting corporate offices. The new victims are often small companies with ground-level offices that provide easy access or cubicle farms with no defined, secure entrance.

The new robbers are dressed in delivery uniforms or coats and ties. Office workers often give strangers little thought if they’re dressed like this, and that’s increasingly a mistake.

Back doors and side entrances need to be locked. Employees entering these doors with security cards should be vigilant in observing whether anyone is standing nearby when they use the cards. If a person asks for access to one of these doors to make a delivery, ask who the recipient is before allowing access or tell the person that he will have to enter the main entrance.

The new robbers are more likely to be carrying guns, so employees should intervene with caution. If an employer has a security force, employees should call security to handle a suspicious situation before getting in the middle of what could be a frightening, deadly experience.

During end of the year holidays, thefts generally increase everywhere. This holiday season will prove to be more serious. Employers should emphasize to employees a heightened need for caution, prevention and safety. And don’t forget that the Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to maintain safe workplaces for their employees at all times.