Unwanted intruders can pose a very real and commonplace threat in almost any office. From petty theft to serious criminal acts, intruders pose a variety of different risks. No workplace is completely safe from thieves and intruders. However, thanks to RiskAware, there are a number of steps you can take to prevent an intrusion at your workplace. Setting Up Shop
Intruders may attempt to enter the premises, steal equipment or other items, or generally scope the location out for further criminal action.
Making it Your Responsibility
It’s your job to challenge these criminals. If you see someone in the office that you do not recognize or that seems suspicious to you, let someone else know – even if you are uncertain. A criminal can use your uncertainty to carry on without ever being questioned. And it is better to be wrong 10 times and be right once. Even if there are security systems in place, they can never be 100 percent effective, and you might be able to catch a criminal that would otherwise have gone undetected.
Prevent Piggybackers
Never allow someone that you do not know to enter the building behind you at a point that requires an access card. Criminals will often try to join groups of employees entering the building together to gain access to the building. Always be aware of who is entering around you. Whenever someone just doesn’t fit – because of dress code, lack of badge or for any other reason – take action.
Dumpster Diving
Some criminals will not technically enter the office, but will literally sift through material that has been disposed of to search for data or sensitive information about the company. Keep your eyes open at all times of the day for individuals engaging in suspicious behavior around the building.
Be Observant
If you do report suspicious activity, concentrate on remembering as much about the individual and his or her behavior as possible so that you can help authorities catch him or her. Facts about physical appearance, vehicles or dress can be helpful in catching criminals before they continue to attack.
Don’t Take Matters into Your Own Hands
Intruders are criminals, and you should never attempt to deal with them on your own, as you might risk aggressive or violent confrontation. Always alert authorities regarding suspicious activity in the building instead of approaching the intruder yourself.
If you have any questions concerning work place safety and how you can improve your employees safety, please contact the LL Roberts Group PEO Risk Management department (toll free) at 877.878.6463.
