The best security system in the world can’t protect your business if your people aren’t on board.
Whether it’s a misused entry, a propped-open door, or an outdated call list, most vulnerabilities don’t come from equipment failure—they come from human behavior. That’s why holistic business security starts with building a team that understands and actively participates in maintaining a secure environment.
Alarms: Great Tech, Human-Dependent
A triggered alarm is the result of a sensor doing its job. But those sensors are only effective if they’re consistently armed.
- Does your team know how to use the alarm system?
- Do they know how to respond if it goes off by mistake?
- Do they know who to call—and is that call list up to date?
Training matters. Every new hire should be shown how to arm the system and what to do in various scenarios, even if they’re rarely the last to leave. A once-a-year refresher helps keep things current and prevents gaps from forming.
Doors, Windows, and Entry Points: Intentional Habits Make the Difference
Security lapses often happen in the name of convenience.
- Have you seen doors propped open for “just a minute”?
- Do employees use side or emergency doors not intended for their use?
- Are overhead doors consistently locked when the business is closed?
These decisions—often made with good intentions—create easy opportunities for unauthorized access. Building a culture where everyone takes ownership of access control is critical. Encourage team members to speak up, correct each other, and take it seriously.
Cameras and Detectors: Maintenance Is a Team Effort Too
It’s not uncommon to hear, “That camera’s been glitchy for a while,” or “The door isn’t latching properly.”
These things happen. But when they’re ignored, they become weak points. Leaders should regularly ask:
- Is everything functioning as it should?
- Does someone report an issue—or are they just tolerated?
- Are routine checks and maintenance part of the team’s rhythm?
Small lapses can create major exposures. All it takes is one sensor or one blind spot to turn a small oversight into a serious problem.
Bottom Line: Security Is a Team Sport
Systems matter. But people determine whether they’re effective. Empower your team, make security part of your culture, and take small actions every day to reinforce accountability.
It’s not just about preventing break-ins. It’s about creating a workplace where everyone feels responsible for keeping the business—and each other—safe.