The National Crime Prevention Council offers workplace safety
tips.
Lights, Locks and Doors
Use high security locks, such as
Medeco®, or for better security, electronic access control
units on all doors.
Be certain all windows are secure.
Change locks before you move into a
new office unless management can account for all keys and
assure you that no keys were made without their knowledge.
Report immediately all doors, windows,
and locks that are broken or not working properly. Do not
assume someone else has reported them already.
Leave some interior lights on even
when the business is closed. Illuminate dark places around
the building by trimming shrubs, adding lighting, etc.
Common Trouble Spots
Never get into elevators with people
who look out of place or behave in a strange or threatening
manner.
Do not use the stairs and stairwells
alone.
Talk to the building manager about
improving poorly lighted corridors and stairways.
Check to make sure that the reception
area is equipped with a panic button for emergencies, a
camera with a monitor set up at another employee’s desk, and
an electronic access control system on the front door that
can be controlled.
Never lock fire exits or block
doorways or stairways.
Be Prepared for an Emergency
Learn your company’s emergency plans.
- Develop a plan if one is not in place.
Then, practice the company’s emergency
plan.
Know the exit routes and evacuation
plans in your building.
Know at least two exit routes from
each room, if possible.
Designate a post evacuation meeting
location where appropriate personnel can take a headcount
and identify any missing workers. Every employee should be
aware of this location.
Coordinate and make special emergency
plans for co-workers who are disabled, do not speak
English, or who may require assistance during an emergency.
If you are trapped in your office
building, stay calm and take steps to protect yourself. If
possible, go to a room with an outside window and telephone
for help.
