Keeping companies safe and secure during volatile economic times

In my former role as deputy chief for the NYPD and my role today in the private security sector, I have lived through many ups and downs in the economy. It's no surprise that a weakened economy translates to more misdeeds and crimes perpetrated by both internal and external forces. The tense economy increases the level of stress among many people, and some may deal with their stress by making threats or committing violence. Downsizings and restructurings, and the constant potential of being terminated, can also result in employees padding their expense reports and taking home work equipment, and can escalate to workplace violence. Many companies are ramping up their security to ensure that their staff and visitors continue to be safe at work and also to ensure their reputation as a safe and secure place of business remains in tact. There is peace of mind for companies who invest in securing their premises. Customers, employees and visitors are comforted by seeing security personnel, along with integrated video monitoring, on the job. Keeping companies safe and secure during volatile economic times requires a partnership between contract security and the company's security managerial, human resources and administrative personnel. Security officers should be well-trained and prepared to handle daily security measures as well as unexpected challenges. Employers need to consider potential threats and take balanced measures to prevent and allay them. While some companies may think of cutting back on security as a quick way to alleviate bottom line economic pressures, most conclude that this is the worst time to cut back on security programs. A lack of security can have a sizeable and lasting effect on an organization's morale, efficiency and reputation. Companies must be prepared for potential for inappropriate action by disgruntled employees or former employees. Prevention is Better than Cure Preventing the worst from happening is far preferable than picking up the pieces. How can a company ensure that they are doing everything they can to prevent economic-related stresses from impacting their workplace? As vice president and general manager for the New York City region at the largest American-owned security officer services company, my clients are keeping security a priority. We proactively work with our customers to review potential weak spots and enhance security processes and practices as needed. We are continually looking at our master security plans and making adjustments as the situations warrant. Physical security requirements continually evolve and require security professionals who can meet the seemingly incessant bombardment of unexpected challenges. Quality security providers provide ongoing training to their officers and managers so that they are well equipped for ever-changing market and customer needs. The current state of the economy and the pressures it places in the workplace demand that a vigilant security team is in place. Now is the time to for company's to review their workplace violence, office theft and other security prevention programs to ensure through employee training and enhanced security protocol that the worst case scenarios are prevented. Lawrence Loesch is regional vice president/general manager for AlliedBarton Security Services, New York, N.Y.