As individuals return to in-person office work in 2022, there may be numerous new employees your veterans have not yet encountered. Because there are so many new faces, it is more likely than ever that a dangerous individual or criminal may enter your business’s premises. There are actions you can take to mitigate the risk of a dangerous event occurring at your business.
Monitor.
Keeping a business safe is not only the responsibility of security staff, but the responsibility of all employees. Below is a list of items or actions that your whole team should be looking out for:
Unauthorized individuals entering restricted areas: If you see someone entering a restricted area without a badge or known ability to be there, do not just assume that they received approval.
Someone placing a bag or item down and walking away: Explosives, firearms, illegal substances, or stolen goods can be deserted in a business and cause injury or threat to employees.
A person observing something for an extended period of time or taking notes and videos.
Someone who is lingering in an area or walking around in circles: This individual may be waiting for a cue, or is trying to memorize all physical features of an area
They are acting like they are busy with something else (i.e. taking on the phone): This could be a cover-up for harmful activity.
Mitigate the Risk.
The first step you can take to mitigate a risk is acknowledging a risk. It is important to be proactive as it is easy to think ‘I am overthinking’ or ‘someone else will notice’ the suspicious behavior at play. Do you remember the old public service announcement: “if you see something, say something” this is more than a slogan. It is a way to protect ourselves. When something does not seem normal these are the moments to take a pause. It is important to remember that when something does not feel right it probably is not right. Have trust in your gut!
How Can You Respond?
You have a few options when responding to suspicious activity.
If the danger is not immediate, call your local police department’s non-emergency line. If you are unsure of this number, now is a good time to look up your city’s local police department non-emergency number and add it as a contact on your mobile phone.
If there is immediate danger, call 911. Your call could save your life and the lives of those around you.
Ask a Supervisor: If something seems out of the ordinary, double-check with a supervisor to make sure the activity has been approved.
Do your employees know how to look for and respond to suspicious behavior? The Evans Brothers have decades of experience and can train your employees to be proactive in the office.
Take the initiative today and contact info@evansbrothersconsulting.com or call 617-545-1500 to set up a short, no-cost, preliminary discussion.
No one knows Boston like the Evans Brothers.