3 Ways to Minimize Business Security Threats

In the age of hybrid work and the rapid rise of AI, businesses worldwide have invested billions of dollars to ramp up cybersecurity. While those efforts are critical, physical security threats still loom large. Approximately $130 billion is lost to workplace violence every year, and nearly 15% of employees say they feel unsafe at work.

So, as you plan to protect your business this year, remember to include a physical security risk assessment in your strategy. Keep reading to learn how to minimize security threats in your workplace.

Business Security Threats to Address in 2024

Are you ready to build a business security plan? In addition to cybercrime, here are three physical security threats your business should prepare to face in the year ahead.

Workplace Violence and Crimes: Whether it’s acts of aggression between employees, incidents involving disgruntled customers, or even external threats posed by criminals or the outside associates of an employee, the potential for violence in the workplace is a serious concern.
Biosecurity: As businesses adapt to the post-pandemic world, they must remain vigilant and prepared for future health crises.
Natural Disasters: From earthquakes to floods, hurricanes, or wildfires, natural disasters can devastate your operations and infrastructure if proper precautions aren’t in place.

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3 Ways to Protect Your Business from a Physical Security Threat

From natural disasters to workplace violence, here are three steps to protect your business from security threats.

#1: Invest in Access Control Measures

Access control measures are crucial for your safety and security. Here are four items to include in your physical security risk assessment checklist.

Perimeter Security: Secure building entrances and exits with solid locks, fences, commercial security cameras, and business security alarm systems. You can control all access points, including loading docks and employee entrances.
Access Control Systems: Implement key cards, badges, or biometric scanners to restrict access to sensitive areas, so that only authorized personnel are permitted.
Visitor Management: Require visitors to sign in, wear badges, and limit access to specific areas.
Security Audits: Regularly audit your physical security measures to promptly identify and address vulnerabilities.

#2: Prioritize Employee Education and Awareness

Beyond physical barriers, here are steps you can take to equip employees with the knowledge and awareness to be your extra eyes and ears —and play an active role in their own safety.

Security Policies and Procedures: Create clear and concise policies on acceptable use of facilities, visitor procedures, and emergency response. Train employees on these policies regularly.
Clear Desk Policy: Encourage employees to avoid leaving sensitive documents on desks or open folders. Implement a clear desk policy to minimize risks of accidental exposure. You may want to also implement print security measures to reduce the exposure of sensitive paperwork.
Cybersecurity Awareness: Train employees to identify and report suspicious activity, such as phishing emails and social engineering attempts.
Emergency Preparedness: Conduct regular drills for fire, active shooter, and other emergencies to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an incident.

#3: Conduct Regular Physical Safety Audits

Top-notch security isn’t a one-time effort. Proactive assessments of your physical safeguards help identify and address vulnerabilities before they become issues. Your physical security risk assessment checklist should include the following.

Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting inside, outside, and in your parking lot to deter criminal activity.
Fire Extinguishers & Smoke Detectors: Verify operability and expiration dates. Conduct fire drills and refresh employees on extinguisher use.
Emergency Exits & Evacuation Routes: Ensure easy access and clear signage. Conduct drills to familiarize employees with escape routes and procedures.
First Aid Kits & AEDs: Regularly inventory and restock supplies. Train employees on essential first-aid and AED operations.
Technology Security: Assess the physical security of IT equipment and data storage. Secure servers and sensitive devices, monitor access logs, and implement data backup procedures. Check your business security camera system periodically too.

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At Gray & Creech Security Solutions, we understand the evolving security landscape, and as a Verkada partner, we offer industry-leading access control, security cameras, and environmental monitoring systems.