The employees who work at your facility every day understand your safety and security procedures and have been properly screened and trained on what to do in an emergency. But a visitor does not have this information, and if the proper security measures are not in place, can pose a security concern. It is important to have a policy to safely integrate contractors and visitors into your secure environment.
Prior to a Visit
- If contractors are going to be on company property for an extended period of time, ensure they have proper background screens completed.
- If there are security personnel on site, they should be alerted of scheduled visitors and contractors.
- There are visitor management systems available that allow visitors to pre-register prior to their visit so they will not have to deal with a lengthy check in process.
Entering the Facility
- As part of your contractor and visitor policy, ensure everyone signs in and out at a reception desk or main office immediately upon arrival and before they leave.
- All access control and bag check policies in place for employees should apply to visitors and contractors as well.
- Create an ID badge for each individual that specifically details who they are and where they are to be.
- If there is a security presence, have them escort contractors and visitors to their destination to ensure they are not entering restricted areas.
During A Visit
- If visitors need to wear special personal protective equipment, provide it with instructions on use.
- In the event of an emergency, ensure all visitors exit promptly and do no re-enter the facility until permission is given.
- Ask all visitors to report any problems they encounter during their visit.