With the economy in the worst recession in decades, businesses are wise to not only review their security budgets, but also their security needs. Unfortunately, as unemployment rates continue to increase so will crime rates. Increased unemployment tends to lead to increased crime especially in the areas of petty theft, shoplifting, burglary, robbery and assault with intent to commit theft against individuals. Businesses need to use extra vigilance to ensure the safety of their employees, customers and tenants/ residents while protecting their property.
An area that deserves special attention in these trying times is that of premise liability. Property owners, managers and tenants can be held liable for incidents that occur on their property if they fail to provide adequate security measures. While the specific laws vary by jurisdiction, premise liability is a serious issue everywhere. The following are some simple and non-expensive steps that all businesses should take in order to limit this potential liability.

• Lighting – make sure all lighting is in working order and that sufficient lighting is provided in all areas, especially outside areas such as walkways, parking lots, etc. In public areas make sure lights turn on prior to darkness and off after sunrise. Ensure maintenance routines are in place to check and replace lighting as needed. In retail establishments leave lights on at night so law enforcement and other citizens can see inside and detect any suspicious activity.

• Blind Spots – eliminate any blind spots that may entice criminal activity.  In outdoor areas trim all bushes and trees to ensure there are no hidden areas where an attacker may commit a crime without being noticed. In retail stores, minimize signs located in front of windows so that law enforcement and other citizens can see inside and detect any suspicious activity.

• Warning Notices to potential victims – in areas where crimes may occur post warning notices to potential victims. For example, in parking garages post a notice that management is not responsible for vehicle thefts.

• Warning Notices to potential criminals – post notices warning of security measures and that all criminals will be prosecuted, no matter what type of crime.

• Locks and Access control – ensure all locks and other access control devices are in good working order and are properly maintained.

• Phones and communications – ensure all phones and means of communication are in good working order so that in case of emergency there will be no delay in communications.

These are just a few areas that businesses should check and maintain to ensure that they not only minimize their liabilities but also provide the appropriate level of security that they should to their employees, customers and tenants/residents. For a more detailed, and customized analysis of your businesses needs contact Brownstone Security.

Employee Recognitions

Brownstone Security takes pride in its employees and their commitment to excellence. Every month employees continue to demonstrate outstanding work ethic. Brownstone Security is proud to announce this month’s Employees of the Month:

Employees of the Month

• Miguel Zurita- Los Angeles Office
• Rena Hamilton- American Gold Star Manor
• Currie Downs- Prime Auto Resources
• Carol Cathey- Von Store
• McHouston Baker- Vons DC EL Monte
• Christy Elliot- Vons DC Santa Fe Springs
• Audry Page- Downey Landing
• Meisha Dotson
• Siaki Ene

Reduce Accidents Through Employee Awareness Programs

Workplace accidents and injuries can be a major concern for any business. A key component to reducing accidents and injuries is the implementation of an Employee Awareness Programs which provides the employees with information of all safety policies, procedures and potential threats. The program must possess answers to some basic questions such as:

• Is there a Code of Safe Work Practices and is it integrated into the hiring process?
• Is there Safety training?
  
• When and where is it conducted?
• Are employees made aware of the costs associated with work related injuries and accidents?
  
• Does your company have Safety related incentive programs?
  

These are just some of the many questions you will need to answer and provide information to your employees in order to implement an effective Employee Safety Awareness Program. Employees must be made aware of the need for a safe work environment if they are expected to execute such practices.