Editor’s note: “Mitigating Mistakes” is a monthly SecurityInfoWatch.com column series from security consultant and author Paul Timm featuring photos of security vulnerabilities discovered in the field followed by a discussion on the problems they present to a facility’s security posture and how they can be addressed.
Finding: The facilities in which I conduct security assessments typically have excellent telephone systems. When I ask an employee about the emergency communication capabilities, however, that person is often unfamiliar with feature specifics and how to access them.
Problem: If and when a critical incident occurs, individuals may not be able to notify others or receive emergency notifications. Employees may not be able to answer questions, such as – Is there an “all call” feature? What is the main desk extension? Can the telephone access the public address system?
Lesson: The value of your telephone system is determined by the individuals who utilize it. Make them aware of emergency communication features. Ensure they are prepared to utilize those emergency features.
Remedy: Engage IT personnel in the following emergency preparedness initiatives. Program emergency numbers into speed dial locations. Consider labeling all telephones with emergency dialing instructions. Provide routine instruction. Schedule time(s) for individuals to practice utilizing emergency features. You have invested in a telephone system. Now invest in the people who use it.
About the Author:
Paul Timm, Vice President of Facility Engineering Associates, is a board-certified Physical Security Professional (PSP), the author of School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program, and a nationally acclaimed expert in physical security. In addition to conducting numerous vulnerability assessments and his frequent keynote addresses, Paul is an experienced Crisis Assistance Team volunteer through the National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA). He is certified in Vulnerability Assessment Methodology (VAM) through Sandia National Laboratories and the ALPHA vulnerability assessment methodology. He is also a member of ASIS International’s School Safety & Security Council and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials’ Risk Management Committee. Paul recently earned his Master’s degree from Moody Theological Seminary.
