A Checklist for Security and Fire/Life Safety

Determining preparedness requires asking probing questions about security policies and procedures, potential threats, the quality of technology, and the knowledge and capabilities of the property’s security staff. Periodic security surveys are recommended to assess the security status of any building. To assess potential threats, examine the effectiveness of current security measures in the following 10 areas:

-Building and perimeter controls, including entry to under-building parking garages.

-Access control of tenants and visitors to the building, including access to loading docks by delivery persons, contractors, and vendors.

-Package acceptance, mail delivery, and removal-control measures.

-State of existing physical security measures:

• Architectural features.
• Lighting systems.
• Locking and key-control systems.
• Access control, intrusion detection, and alarm systems.
• Closed-circuit television systems.
• Communication systems.

-Security staffing and training.

-Building policies and procedures.

-State of post orders and security instructions.

-Building emergency plan:

• Building emergency procedures manual.
• Building emergency staff preparedness.
• Occupant training.
• Floor warden program.
• Evacuation drills.

-Tenant security awareness and communication of the security and life-safety program to tenants and vendors.

-Background checks of building staff, including security, engineering, janitorial, and elevator technicians.

Source: Securitas Security Services USA Inc.