Planning & Implementation

3. Site security

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It is vital that staff feel safe and secure in their workplace, and in their residence or guesthouse. 

Site security starts with selecting the right property in the right location; however, the choice of suitable properties may be limited. You should undertake security and safety assessments when establishing any new office, staff accommodation or other premises.

Facilities must be located in areas that ensure a reasonable level of security and safety for staff, and appropriate measures and procedures put in place to prevent or deter threats that exist in that location.

The level of security measures and procedures required at NGO facilities depends on the security situation, the threats that exist and the security strategies adopted in that context. Effective site security often requires a layered or zonal approach. This approach can be broken down into four areas – Deter, Detect, Delay and Respond. 

Each layer should complement and support the others, first preventing threats from occurring and then minimising the consequences if they do. 

Use of unarmed guards or watchmen is common at NGO offices, residences and warehouses, and may be an essential part of security measures at your facilities. In order for guards to be effective, care and attention should be paid to the conditions under which they are recruited or hired, and subsequently managed. 

Fire also presents a significant risk to staff health and safety, especially in countries where there is no fire service, buildings have poor fire safety standards, and few people have fire safety training. It is vital that fire safety precautions and staff training are established in all facilities.

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