Ask any property manager of a hi-rise building an they'll tell you that their building is unlike any other. From the mixture and diversity of their tenants to problems associated with aging structures to the stresses of market conditions, they are all unique.
But one common thread linking them are the issues and concerns facing them all regarding the security of their facilities! Yes buildings vary based on size and market and even their "profile-status" within certain cities which can increase threats, but the bottom-line is that property managers need to ensure the safety & security of all tenants, vistors & guests.
As a step in the right direction, their existing systems and policies are being evaluated & fine tuned with many buildings looking to technology for answers. But for most office buildings, even most high-rises, the right approach of how to accomplish this is far less clear.
Many ask; Can a major overhaul of the security system be justified? Most building owners and facility executives have concluded that the answer is "no" given the current economic conditions and downturns in operating revenues. But even in those cases, however, there are a number of things that can be done to prevent or minimize threats or actual harm to people and property. At the top of the list is making sure that their current security system is operating at its full potential. In most cases, some minor enhancements or additions on top of the existing infrastructure which leverages the building's initial investment in security is all that is needed.
"Most facility executives think security protection is something you design and implement and then you can forget about," says Richard Rotondo of Digital Vision CCTV, LLC. "The truth is, security systems are dynamic. They have to be maintained and adjusted as conditions change." He also added "That with constant advances in technology upgrading antiquated CCTV systems is easier, less costly and can dramatically improve the building managements abilities to proactively meet security needs".
The most pervasive changes in the industry involve security procedures and access control. For instance, some owners now enforce a long-ignored requirement that visitors go to a central location or guard desk for passes or badges before entering.
CONTROLLING BUILDING ACCESS
Not surprisingly, procedures and security systems for loading docks, mailrooms and alternative entranceways into high-rise buildings have become a major focus. For example, many experts say the trend is to limit or eliminate internal delivery of packages unless vendors are screened or internally cleared. Otherwise, uniformed personnel or tenants themselves deliver the packages.
Other changes have to do with technology. Although security personnel should attempt to stop everyone coming into a building the reality is it's impossible. One solution that has drawn a good deal of interest & reporting greater use from Owners and security professionals are integrated card access systems,especially proximity cards.
Tenant interest in security has led many building operators to install such systems that control entry into the building, elevators, package-control centers and anywhere else access is needed. They have also looked for ways to limit entry and exit points at their facilities in an attempt to "funnel" pedestrian traffic to areas where they can be more easily observed by CCTV cameras or security personnel. A tenant who forgets his or her badge has to go to the visitor station to get into the building.
CCTV systems are another focus of attention. Measures range from inexpensive tweaks -making sure CCTV cameras are provided with sufficient light or are properly positioned - to the replacement of traditional cameras with "night-vision" infrared models - to the installation of additional cameras in public areas, such as garden and reception spaces.
Digital Vision can supply a “no-cost” site survey assessment of your building or complex to see if CCTV or access control can improve your bottom-line. Visit www.digitalvisioncctv.net for more information or to set up an on-site visit.
