Security Considerations for the Post-COVID Workplace
By Stephen Clement, Admiral Security
As we all return to the office in some capacity, many facility managers are understandably prioritizing health concerns in the workplace. Hand sanitizing stations, daily self-assessments, and compliance with CDC guidelines will remain important steps to ensure a safe transition back into the post-COVID world. Another critical factor needs to be considered in return-to-work conversations - security procedures for the building and building’s employees. Both people and technology will have an important role to play as we embrace this “new normal,” so facility managers should keep a few simple tips in mind to revitalize their security programs.
COVID-19 created the need for unprecedented technologies to be installed in commercial office buildings. Forehead thermometers and exposure tracking became a large part of building access procedures which had not been there before. Although many restrictions such as mask-wearing and social distancing may be gradually loosened as vaccination rates increase and infection rates decrease, much of the infrastructure put in place due to COVID-19 is likely here to stay for a while, both in building lobbies and individual tenant spaces. Facility managers should ensure that security staff is trained on what the building’s ever-changing access control policies are: Do you need a mask to enter? Do visitors need to check their temperature before proceeding? Who should they call if they have a question? Remind your security team of how COVID-19 is impacting current activity, and how they should handle tenants, contractors, and visitors in a time when many unpredictable variables still abound.
Beyond COVID-19, now is a perfect time to re-engage with your security team to revisit general security protocols. So much has changed over the past year-and-a-half, but a lot has remained the same, too. Facility managers should ensure that security directives and post orders are up-to-date, and that all staff is thoroughly trained for the location. The global pandemic cannot be an excuse for lapses in knowledge! Talk with your provider so you can be confident in the capabilities of the officers at your location. Do they still remember the evacuation rally point? Which camera does each desktop CCTV camera correspond to? Is the emergency notification contact list still accurate? With employees returning to the office en masse, there are a lot of fine details which may slip through the cracks. After 18 months, some might be justified in this rush to make up for lost time with friends, coworkers, and colleagues. Nevertheless, facility managers must emphasize their continual commitment to security. Put those best practices in place first, as security is the first step in protecting your assets, your building, and your people.
Finally, but perhaps most importantly, take the time to become personally involved with your security team again. The positive effect of an engaged facility manager cannot be understated on the morale and productivity of an on-site security team. While many of us were able to work remotely and stay home with our families and loved ones during a time of uncertainty, physical security cannot be outsourced. Throughout the pandemic of the last year, security officers remained on location, securing your building around the clock despite a reasonable level of fear, hesitation, and questions. While the first advice of public health officials was to stay inside at home for those who could, security officers reported to duty, prepared to work on behalf of your building and your team. Recognize that while some of our days could be spent at home, theirs by nature could not. Tell them you appreciate their dedication and their efforts over what has been a tumultuous year in many respects. Make them part of the building’s family, especially as that family is finally coming together once again. A security team that feels valued, respected, and motivated by their facilities team will be ready for whatever the next challenge may be.
Security, both the technology systems and the manned guarding, is a crucial element of a successful facility management program. Even though much of the behind-the-scenes work is handled by external integrators and contractors, facility managers need to stay hands-on with the staff and the continual upkeep of the policies for maximum effect. Hopefully the lessons above can help refresh your security posture after a long time away. Security considerations must remain top of mind, perhaps now more than ever.
