What Can Employers Do to Create a Safer Workplace?

What Can Employers Do to Create a Safer Workplace?

As a business owner, your employees’ well-being has always meant a lot to you, but now, workplace safety is more critical than ever. With a 28% increase in physical security incidents and a 20% rise in data breaches since 2023, businesses are facing mounting threats to their people, assets, and data. These statistics underscore the urgent need for you to adopt comprehensive security measures to protect your people, assets, and data. But where do you start?

At Phil & Son, Inc., we’ve spent over 50 years helping businesses stay ahead of evolving threats. Our mission is to arm you with the knowledge and tools to create a safer, more secure environment. Here’s how you can take the first step toward a safer workplace.

Understanding Workplace Security Risks

Before creating a safer workplace, it’s crucial to identify the most common risks businesses face. These can be broadly categorized into physical security and cybersecurity threats.

Physical Security Incidents

Intrusions, theft, vandalism, and even workplace violence are just a few examples of physical security challenges. Without proper security measures, such incidents can lead to serious financial losses, employee injuries, and decreased morale. For example, inadequate access control systems allow unauthorized individuals to enter restricted areas, increasing the risk of theft or harm.

Cybersecurity Threats

Cyberattacks, such as data breaches, ransomware, and phishing, are on the rise and becoming increasingly sophisticated. Businesses that fail to secure sensitive customer and employee data risk financial penalties, reputational damage, and even operational shutdowns. Reports show that the average cost of a data breach in 2023 was $4.45 million—a number businesses can’t afford to ignore.

Social Engineering Attacks

Social engineering threats, such as phishing emails and fraudulent calls, exploit human error to gain unauthorized access to sensitive systems or information. Shockingly, 94% of businesses reported encountering social engineering attacks last year alone. Training employees to recognize these attacks is as critical as securing physical and digital systems.

Understanding these risks is the foundation for adopting robust workplace security measures.

Key Strategies for Enhancing Workplace Security

1. Implement Access Control Systems

Controlling who enters your workplace is essential. Modern card access systems make this process seamless and secure.  

• Why it works: These systems grant employees and authorized personnel access while keeping intruders out.  
• Extra benefits: Cloud-based monitoring lets businesses oversee access points remotely and even revoke permissions instantly if needed.

2. Install Video Surveillance Systems  

Visible security cameras do more than capture footage—they deter crime. Research shows that people are less likely to perform negative behavior when video cameras are present. 

• Modern advancements: Leverage video analytics to monitor for suspicious behavior automatically, ensuring proactive response to potential threats.  
• Key recommendation: High-definition video systems offer multi-location surveillance and real-time video access.

3. Develop Strong Cybersecurity Protocols

Cybersecurity should be a priority for every organization. From protecting sensitive data to preventing unauthorized access, robust protocols can save businesses from catastrophic losses.  

• Begin with cybersecurity tools, like VPNs, firewalls, and antivirus software, to defend against external threats.  
• Employee training is equally crucial. Teach staff to spot phishing emails, use strong passwords, and avoid access to business systems from unsecured devices.

4. Conduct Regular Security Assessments

Assessment is key to identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring your systems are up to date.  

• Professional insight: Security experts offer comprehensive security evaluations to pinpoint weak spots and suggest solutions tailored to your workplace.  
• Start with a workplace checklist:

-Are access control systems functional?  

-Are surveillance cameras positioned effectively?  

-Are cybersecurity solutions updated?  

• Addressing these basic questions can make a significant difference.

5. Foster a Culture of Security Awareness

Creating a security-focused mindset among employees ensures safety remains a shared responsibility.  

• Encourage staff to report suspicious activity without hesitation.  
• Regularly provide training on physical and cyber risks.  
• Set up user-friendly security protocols, like easily accessible evacuation plans and emergency contacts.  

A strong workplace culture can often act as the first line of defense.

Benefits of Investing in Workplace Security

Investing in workplace security solutions offers significant advantages for both employees and businesses.  

Prevent Financial and Reputational Losses

Whether it’s avoiding catastrophic damages from a data breach or losses from physical theft, reliable security solutions serve as a shield against financial and reputational harm.

Boost Employee Morale and Productivity

A safe workplace is a productive workplace. When employees feel secure, they focus better on their work, leading to enhanced efficiency and job satisfaction.

Create a Competitive Advantage

Security isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a job perk. A growing number of employees are considering workplace security when comparing job opportunities. By prioritizing security, you’re not just protecting current employees but also attracting top talent.

Secure Your Workplace Today

Workplace safety is a continuous, proactive process—not a one-time fix. By implementing strategies such as access control systems and cybersecurity protocols while fostering a culture of security awareness, employers can mitigate risks and build trust with employees.

If you’re considering upgrading your security measures, Phil & Son, Inc. has over 50 years of experience providing tailored solutions like card access systems, video surveillance, and alarm monitoring. Protect your business and employees with a name you can trust – contact us today.