Security Professionals Torn Between Protection and Intrusion

Changes in security technology and the constant threat of terrorism mean security executives at the nation’s facilities are torn between security and keeping businesses running. How can they handle the balancing act?

According to an article by Greg Zimmerman in the August issue of Building Operating Management, the challenge for security executives "is combining all these considerations with existing security protocol to arrive at a total security plan that protects building occupants without being overly intrusive to day-to-day operations."

Zimmerman says that although every building is different, there are a number of best practices facility managers can take advantage of to ensure the best security possible. Some of those practices include integrating security technologies, like access control and video, and standardizing systems across an entire portfolio.

First, Zimmerman says, companies should conduct a risk assessment before undertaking any changes to a security plan. Next, he says, companies should look into various technology updates as new advances are allowing for more flexibility in the ways systems are deployed.

Finally, Zimmerman says one of the most important things to do is to get the cooperation of the building’s occupants."This means educating occupants on how elements of a facility’s security plan are protecting them and also creating a culture where security is always a priority in the minds of occupants," he says."The goal is for occupants to not only look out for themselves but also keep a wary eye on others, both in terms of suspicious behavior and any fellow occupants who aren’t following existing security protocol."

To read the full article, click here: http://www.facilitiesnet.com/bom/article.asp?id=3179