The summer holidays provide schools with an important opportunity to review security while buildings are quieter. They can also create additional risks, with fewer staff on site, contractors moving through the premises and valuable equipment left unattended.
1. Review keys, cards and access permissions
Begin by reviewing access permissions. Disable cards or fobs belonging to leavers, update staff records and confirm that contractors only have access to the areas and times they require. Physical keys should be accounted for and lost keys investigated.
2. Confirm CCTV is recording useful images
Test CCTV cameras and confirm that views have not been obstructed by vegetation, building work or changes to the site. Check that recordings can be found and played back and that the date, time and retention period are correct.
3. Test alarms and update keyholders
Intruder alarms, panic devices and communication with the alarm receiving centre should be tested. Keyholder details must be current so the right people can be contacted during the closure. Doors, gates and windows should also be inspected for damage or poor alignment.
4. Plan around contractors and building work
If building work is planned, consider how it may affect detectors, cameras, cables and controlled doors. Temporary arrangements may be required, and every system should be fully retested before pupils return.
5. Review emergency and lockdown procedures
Finally, review emergency procedures with the people responsible for putting them into action. Current government guidance for education settings emphasises planning, testing and implementing protective security and preparedness arrangements. Any lockdown, invacuation or evacuation plan must be appropriate for the setting, understood by staff and coordinated with life-safety requirements. Technology is most effective when it supports a practised plan.
How FTL Secure Solutions can help
FTL Secure Solutions works with schools, academies and other education providers to maintain and upgrade CCTV, access control and intruder alarm systems. A planned holiday inspection can resolve faults and complete improvements with less disruption to everyday teaching.
Ready to improve your security?
Use the summer break to resolve security faults before pupils and staff return. Call FTL Secure Solutions on 01344 752222 or email sales@ftlsecuresolutions.co.uk to arrange a school security review or planned maintenance visit.
