COVID-19 & Commercial Security

COVID-19 changes the profile and implementation commercial security measures due to the limit of personal interacton, the increase of remote security measures and efforts to slow the spread of C19 in order to maintain healthy business operations.

Some of the ways in which COVID-19 has affected security include:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on commercial security procedures.
• Increased sanitation and hygiene measures: Businesses have implemented more rigorous cleaning and sanitization protocols to reduce the spread of the virus. This includes frequently disinfecting high-touch surfaces and providing hand sanitizer for employees and customers.
• Changes to building access: Many businesses have implemented new procedures for entering and exiting buildings, such as temperature screenings and mandatory face masks. Some buildings have also restricted the number of people allowed inside at one time to promote social distancing.
• Remote work: Many businesses have shifted to remote work in order to reduce the number of people in the office and decrease the risk of transmission. This has led to an increased need for remote access controls and virtual private networks (VPNs) to secure remote connections.
• Increased security personnel: Businesses have increased the number of security personnel to ensure compliance with safety protocols, monitor building access, and enforce social distancing.
• Increase in security technology: Businesses have increased the use of security technology such as contactless access control systems, surveillance cameras, and thermal imaging cameras to monitor and enforce safety protocols.
• Changes to emergency response plans: Businesses have updated their emergency response plans to include specific protocols for responding to COVID-19 outbreaks, such as isolation and quarantine procedures.
• Increased screening measures: Many businesses have implemented more rigorous screening measures, such as temperature checks and symptom screenings, to help prevent the spread of the virus.
• Social distancing: Many businesses have implemented social distancing measures, such as reducing capacity and marking floors to indicate safe distances.
• Personal Protective Equipment: It's common now to see security guards wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, face shields, and gloves.
• Changes in foot traffic: Due to lockdowns and other restrictions, many businesses have seen a significant decrease in foot traffic, which has led to changes in security procedures such as a shift in the focus of security patrols.
• Changes in emergency protocols: Businesses have reviewed and updated their emergency protocols to take into account the potential spread of COVID-19.
• Cybersecurity: Remote working has increased the use of digital tools, this has resulted in an increase in cyber threats, Businesses are increasing their focus on cybersecurity measures to protect their digital assets.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a greater focus on health and safety in commercial security procedures, and has accelerated the adoption of new technologies and protocols to promote the well-being of employees and customers.