Building safety is more than just having a strong, protective structure that can withstand the forces of inclement and dangerous weather. In today’s modern world, there is a higher awareness of the threats and potential dangers around us. For this reason, commercial building safety now includes a vast scope of factors and considerations, from technological applications and AI, to security planning, protection, and more.
As a commercial office building owner, it is in your best interest to ensure your property is a safe and hazard-free environment for all. Whether you are planning a new build, or you wish to incorporate some security upgrades, there is no better time to get started than right now.
Continue reading to learn some tips for improving the security of a commercial office building.
Commercial Building Security and Safety Planning
When it comes to building security, cameras and monitoring equipment are just the tip of the iceberg. It is important to apply a thorough design and quality construction plan to improve your property’s safety and security. A trusted and skilled commercial general construction management team can help you achieve this goal through comprehensive brainstorming, analysis, and preconstruction planning.
Here are some top, industry-endorsed tips and ideas to consider when deciding on building security renovations or improvements:
Parking Lots and Garages
Begin your security improvement planning outside in the parking lot or parking garage. Vehicles are potential weapons, and possible tools that can be used to commit crimes. For this reason, managing the traffic of vehicles on and off of your premises is an essential security consideration. It is suggested to incorporate types of parking lot and parking garage barriers to guide and direct traffic, as well as, prevent access to certain areas. Things like bollard posts, road markings, fences, barriers, and more can be strategically positioned in places that will provide enhanced security.
Building Access and Entrances
In addition to managing vehicular traffic on your property for the purpose of added safety and security, it is important to also apply the same security principles for foot traffic in and out of your commercial building. During your building security renovation planning, be sure to consider strategies to monitor or keep track of those who enter, exit, and access the building. Furthermore, strategies to prohibit building access, either for certain areas, certain individuals, or certain times, should also be considered. Things like turnstile areas, RFID key cards, badges, key fobs, and cameras have significant value. Cover all accessible and barred areas, such as roof access areas, maintenance rooms, utility rooms, stairwells, elevators, entry and exit doors, windows, break rooms, and outdoor gathering spaces like terraces, walkways, and courtyards.
Drywall Construction and Integrity
As mentioned, building security is more than just the strength of your building. However, the structural integrity of your property is still a vital part of your overall security plan. When considering renovations for improving your building’s safety and security, ask your commercial general contractor about the quality of your drywall and building materials. In the case of a natural disaster, fire, collision, or even gunfire, having strong walls can play a large role in resistance and recovery time. Building materials like brick and concrete make for the strongest of walls, while drywall is valuable in areas that do not require as much structural strength and endurance.
Reinforced Windows, Doors, and Glass
On the topic of quality building materials, another way to enhance your office building’s security is to ensure your doors and windows are secured. This is one of the simplest and straightforward methods of instantly improving your office’s security. By adding high-quality, innovative locking mechanisms on all accessible windows and doors is strongly recommended for all office buildings, regardless of size or occupancy. Furthermore, high-quality reinforced glass is another valuable upgrade to apply in your next commercial office building renovation.
Fire Protection and Safety
Protecting your building and its occupants against fires and hazardous smoke is a top priority, and even mandatory under local and state building codes. A state-of-the-art fire suppression and protection system should be in place, and fully-operational at all times. See our blog, “When a Commercial Renovation Should Include a Fire Suppression System Upgrade” to learn more about the importance of incorporating or enhancing a fire sprinkler and smoke alarm system.
Trusted Commercial Office Renovations in Indianapolis, Indiana
Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted office and commercial-use construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.
