Deciding to implement an access control system in your school is only one step in the process of bolstering school security. After installation, we recommend some best practices to maximize the benefits of your security system. Following these recommended guidelines can strengthen school security protocols and better protect both students and staff.

Continue reading to learn more about best practices for school access control systems in and around Rio Grande City, TX.

SEE ALSO: School Access Control: a Solution that Goes Beyond Security

Establish a Policy

A well-defined policy is crucial for establishing a solid foundation for security. Within your policy, you should outline procedures, rules, and guidelines for the school’s access control program. This policy should define who can access certain areas, such as records retention rooms or administrative offices. Your policy should also outline emergency procedures and how to manage revocation of access as needed following staff turnover.

User Access Reviews

Schedule consistent reviews of user access levels and permissions to ensure only those authorized have access to sensitive areas. Implement multi-factor authentication for an extra layer of security within your user access system to ensure there is no tampering with controls. We would also recommend comparing users in the system with the current staff roster to ensure no one’s access was inadvertently overlooked after leaving employment.

Check All Entry Points

To ensure they are properly secured and have not been tampered with, perform a regular review of all entry points like doors, windows, and gates. During school hours, consider reducing the number of potential access points to improve monitoring efficiency by locking down all other access points with robust locks that prohibit entry.

A regular security audit can also help assess vulnerabilities in your system and identify areas for improvement. Consider hiring an outside company to perform this audit and check for weaknesses, like malfunctioning locks. Your access control system must operate at top performance to protect staff and students.

Visitor Procedures

Conduct staff training on visitor procedures to ensure everyone follows proper protocol when inviting and escorting visitors at school. A visitor management procedure could include registration, ID checks, and restricted access keycards in order to ensure visitors only go where they were intended.

Ongoing Education

Security is a shared responsibility among staff, students, and parents. Educating everyone with school access about the security protocols and how to report suspicious activity is imperative. This continuing education effort will help keep security top-of-mind and propel the success of your school’s access control program.

 

As you work to enhance the security of your Rio Grande City, TX, area school, consider a consultation with the security experts at Circle Industries. Effective access control takes a proactive approach and is critical to protect students and staff so they can focus on learning throughout the day. Contact us, and together we can help you prioritize the safety of your building for added peace of mind.