May 2019 – Top News in the Security and Risk Industry

There’s a lot going on in the world of physical risk and vulnerability, and it’s nearly impossible to keep up with the latest news and developments. We’ll keep you informed with the best content to keep your organization safe and secure. Check out the top news and headlines from the past month.

New Bill Would Allow Illinois Schools to Add Barricades to Classroom Doors

Via Campus Safety Magazine. Illinois could become the fourth state in the Midwest to allow certain barricades to protect students in lockdown situations, such as active shooter scenarios. However, most of the barricades aren’t ADA or fire code compliant. What’s at stake if the bill is passed? What’s at stake if it isn’t passed?

Our take: The problem with traditional door barricades is that they will keep anyone out of the room. That means if a shooter is able to enter a classroom before the lockdown takes effect, you now have an entire classroom of hostages (or casualties), and no one can enter the room to prevent it. But some electronic barricades can help prevent that scenario. Electronic access control systems can initiate immediate lockdown and allow for individual doors to open and gain access when needed. This can often be a more expensive option, however.

How to Harness Emerging Technologies for Potential Growth

Via Security Sales & Integration. Looking for new ways to grow your security consulting business? This article introduces several paths to channeling growth potential, such as offering the latest technologies and joining industry associations

Our take: Growing your security business will take more than bootstrapping, elbow grease and working harder than the next guy. Emerging technologies are introducing new ways of cutting costs and time while increasing revenue. Keep your finger on the pulse of the market, and thoughtfully evaluate the products that make sense for you—not every new tech solution is the right solution for your business.

Attacks on Religious Targets: Another Example of a Need for Vigilance

Via Security Magazine. In the wake of recent attacks on places of worship, religious institutions are faced with the reality that they can no longer ignore the question, “What if a shooting happens here next?” Here’s how many churches, synagogues and mosques are answering that question.

Our take: For places of worship, active shooter scenarios are the most frightening safety situation, and the one that’s grabbed people’s attention. But there are more mundane scenarios to consider, as well: fire and storm safety, kidnapping, child abuse and sexual harrassment. Churches should take a holistic approach to their physical security and safety. The best place to start is with a vulnerability and risk assessment that evaluates threats, severity and probability.

Is Your Organization Getting Physical Security Right?

Via HelpNetSecurity. Most organizations take cybersecurity very seriously. But it won’t matter if your data is encrypted or how secure your virtual network is if an attacker can just walk in the door and gain access physically. What do you need to know about physically protecting your digital data?

Our take: When organizations treat cybersecurity and physical security like they’re separate things, it’s like barring all your windows but leaving your front door wide open. Physical and cybersecurity are two sides of the same coin. To truly make your company secure, you need a cyber-physical approach that addresses both forms of threats.