Workforces are returning to the office as the country gradually opens for business once again. Preventing false alarms will be as important moving forward as it was when we shut our doors for three consecutive months.
For business owners, managing your property’s physical security system schedules will be paramount, as will keeping all contact names and phone numbers current, in an effort to reduce unwanted police dispatches.
Prior to the pandemic, and in all likelihood after a return to normalcy, the primary causes for false alarms for corporations and businesses included:
- Insufficient sensor placement
- Outdated equipment
- User error
Developing and maintaining security training and practices for your team and incoming employees will be the key to avoiding false alarms as business resumes.
All new employees should feel confident with what your company determines to be the basic protocols surrounding its security systems.
An overall understanding of the following components will be wise:
- Areas to which they have access and areas which are restricted.
- Disarming operations (for those who are first to arrive).
- Arming operations (for those who leave the office last).
- Steps to take if setting off an alarm by accident.
Of course, malfunction and normal wear and tear are frequently the cause of false alarms that can cost your company – and authorities – time and money.
It will be prudent to get back into the habit of performing regular system maintenance, as well. Annual checkups by your security vendor are ideal to ensure that all integrated security systems are functioning properly and in tandem. A mid-year house call is also not out of the question after working remotely for almost a quarter of the year.
Some additional things to consider:
- Replace alarm system batteries to ensure consistent sensor operation.
- Reinstate ongoing system training and making it a priority for all team members.
- Remind all employees of their access level, and any changes to their status.
- Update passwords for solutions companywide.
- Make certain all CCTV systems and cameras are positioned and programmed to maximize security management.
- Position motion sensors away from fans and areas with as little noise and background motion as possible.
- Review your recorder and/or server settings to ensure sufficient data capacity for business operations and remote accessibility.
- Consider purchasing and installing new tech allowing for hands-free and frictionless access.
As always, be sure to inform your security vendor if your team expects to be out of office for an extended period of time. Inform your alarm company of the projected dates, and who to contact in the interim.
In times of crisis, it is essential that all required system users and chief executives have proper credentials to security subsystems. All other users should be restricted or purged altogether. Implement a means of providing credentials for people to enter your facility if needed (such as first responders, security vendors, and critical personnel).
SECOM, LLC, can help you avoid false alarms, and so much more. We have been busy helping businesses, corporations, and government agencies optimize their security measures throughout the pandemic, and we will continue to assist you long after the country has completely reopened. Call us today to learn more and to request a quote.