Security Protocols Critical to Success in Open Office Environments
Open office plans are commonly used in large workspaces and are designed to promote collaboration among staff whose work relies on frequent communication or needs little concentration. Open office layouts are often used in large corporations, especially in the tech industry. In some instances, employees do not have an assigned desk or a lockable file cabinet. Work can be done from any location, allowing for flexibility among coworkers. These layouts can create headaches for security directors though.
How an Open Environment Hinders Security
The lack of offices means that employees cannot close and lock an office door when they’re done working. Some proponents of open office plans claim that visible security measures undermine the whole point of the layout. The dilemma remains over what employees should do with their jackets, purses, laptops and other sundry belongings if they cannot be locked away.
Imagine the toll if a thief gains entry to the open office space and manages to walk off undetected. It might not be too difficult if the thief figures out a way to blend in with other employees and roam around.
In a high-rise, enterprise office building, there are security precautions available to prevent such scenarios. Visitor management measures are especially useful in the office today. A visitor management system can be set up to require visitor ID badges, thus limiting outsider access to sensitive areas. Without this level of security, an unwanted visitor is a challenge to stop in an open office environment. They can potentially steal company or employee property and make a quick exit.
Theft of employee belongings is not the only issue to consider in open office plans. Sensitive and confidential data can also be at risk when an intruder makes it inside. If employees are changing workstations routinely, it becomes easier for other employees, vendors, or contractors to lift confidential information. With the use of smartphone cameras or thumb drives, a thief can quickly and easily obtain sensitive data.
Improve Your Office Security
In an open office environment, employees must be trained to be aware of their surroundings and angle their laptops away from high traffic areas. Also, they must follow protocols that include shutting down and password protecting their laptops when not in use.
Ensure your facility is as secure as possible through company policies and procedures dictating what information can be accessed. All employees should be trained effectively in security protocols when they begin employment, and security refresher sessions should be scheduled routinely. Communication should also be encouraged amongst employees, and those who follow the established security protocols should be rewarded regularly.
In a larger enterprise, there is a greater chance for employees to work with different individuals daily. Physical and data security needs to be a priority to mitigate the potential security risks that are prevalent in an open office environment. Contact Veristream at 1-888-718-0807 to discuss how implementing visitor management into your open office environment can enhance security or request a demo online.
