Returning to the office post-pandemic is a prospect that garners mixed responses - while many can't wait to get back to the daily grind, others are still unsure and on high alert.
People’s worries don’t just relate to Covid-19, but to ‘returning to normal' and the concerns that brings, including security. After nearly two years of working from home, how do we seamlessly head back to the office and keep our businesses secure at the same time?
While it may seem daunting, we've outlined some security tips for the return to the office, to make things a little easier.
1. Set office guidelines
People like to know where they stand. When can they come in? When can’t they?
A solution could come in the form of a register, documenting who is going into the office and when. Or, if you have an access control system, it’s important to ensure best practices are followed.
Set out ground rules like only using your own pass, not leaving your pass out on desks (this is where lanyards come in handy), and setting an example for traffic flow (not allowing more than one person through a security entrance at one time).
2. Update your monitoring systems
With hybrid working in full force, there’s much less predictability when it comes to who is in the office.
For a clearer understanding of this - and inherently stronger security - consider integrating an access control system that logs entrances and exits on a control panel. Not only does this save staff from having to log this manually, but it also helps prevent thieves, fraudsters, and anyone else with ill-intent from simply walking in.
Sensitive areas such as server rooms or executive offices can be protected by restricting access to specific individuals.
3. Upgrade your security entrances
With hybrid working, it’s often the case that staff members come into work in dribs and drabs throughout the day but all leave at the same time (when it’s the end of the workday!). This can lead to significant congestion at the entrance points that matter most.
Thankfully, there are options. Speed gates with integrated access control can help manage the flow of traffic, only letting through one person at a time. Piggybacking (more than one person using a door or gate at once) can be prevented with revolving doors, maintaining people’s personal boundaries and aiding in creating a more secure workplace.
4. Tighten up device and data security
If staff members are in between locations, the risk of losing devices or connecting to unsafe networks is heightened. You should therefore ensure that staff members are clued up when it comes to passwords and that all third-party apps are encrypted.
Within your office building, consider a guest network so that people can’t connect to the company network used for important business operations. Giving out your network password significantly increases the chances of a cyber attack.
Find out more about the intersection of cybersecurity and physical security in our blog.
5. Try hygienic, touchless security
The pandemic has, of course, forced us to be more acutely aware of hygiene. In the office, common touchpoints have been the focus when it comes to office cleaning procedures.
A clean and easy solution comes in the form of touchless entry. Whether it’s a pedestal mount like our Lifeline Boost or facial recognition technology, touchless technology can help take a weight off your shoulders without compromising on security.
You can read about the touchless evolution in our blog to find out how contactless technology has gone from a luxury to a necessity.
Office Security with Boon Edam
We offer a variety of technologically advanced and energy-efficient security solutions to help you achieve your security goals and peace of mind. Discover our range of products here!
If you’re interested in touchless entry options or security entrances that promote efficient traffic flow, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of experts to find out how we can help.
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