Back to School: A Guide to Security in Education
With a new school year getting underway, it’s important that students, staff and visitors return to safe and secure premises.
The education sector has unique security challenges. To make things easier, this post will explore how to keep schools, colleges and other higher education buildings protected from intruders and other threats.
The challenges of securing educational premises
Schools and other higher education buildings are similar to all commercial premises when it comes to their security needs. However, they also pose some specific challenges.
One of the challenges is the sheer number of students, teachers, support staff and visitors on the premises each day. As well as making sure no unauthorised persons access the buildings and grounds, there is also the issue of monitoring the safety of those who should be on the premises.
Schools and colleges might extend over large campuses with different-sized buildings, car parks and communal areas. That’s why it’s important a risk assessment is carried out to identify specific threats to tailor the right security solutions.
Here are some key elements to include in the security suite.
Video surveillance system
All educational premises should have some type of CCTV or video surveillance system. The system includes cameras which are angled to capture activity in and around the buildings. The footage can be monitored in real time and recorded. Security cameras can act as a deterrent, as well as providing evidence in any type of dispute or criminal proceeding.
Fire alarm
As well as having a large number of people to protect, educational premises might face a heightened risk of fire from catering units and science labs. So, schools and colleges should be fitted with an up-to-date fire detection and alarm system, which is maintained and regularly tested. This must be backed up with a robust fire evacuation policy, regular training and drills.
Intruder alert system
In addition to monitoring the premises with CCTV, it is important to install intruder alarms. These work through a series of linked sensors, which create a circuit. If this circuit is broken by a person passing through, an alarm sounds. Again, these act as a deterrent and alert the security team to a potential threat.
Access control
An access control system limits entry to a building via a code, swipe card or biometrics. Given the volume of people who visit a school or college each day, access control might not be right for all areas of the premises. However, limiting who can access the car park, administration offices, staff-only areas or other specific locations can enhance the security of the premises.
In addition to a comprehensive security suite, those in charge of educational institutions need to ensure that staff remain vigilant and have the training they need to help keep the premises and students safe.
Selectron secures all types of properties
At Selectron, we work with properties of all types and sizes across Bermuda, so we are sure to have the right security solution for your school or higher education premises. Contact us today on +1 441 236 4181 to find out how we can help you.
Selectron Ltd
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