Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
As facilities adapt their physical security strategies to fend off would-be thieves and vandals, are they making the best decisions to keep sites safe? With the implementation of new security elements such as cameras, fences, or alarm systems, facilities are continually upgrading their strategies. However, even as facilities add defenses to their arsenal, these sites […]
Securing K-12 school buildings is a critical responsibility for facilities managers. With increasing concerns about school safety, implementing electronic access control (EAC) systems has become a best practice. A layered security approach, starting from the outside and moving inward, is recommended to ensure comprehensive protection. This method enhances security and allows for phased implementation, making […]
Futuristic technology is proving that it can create efficiencies for building operations, and facilities managers are finding ways to incorporate it into their tasks. But while many facilities managers may be knowledgeable about the Internet of Things (IoT), building information modeling (BIM), artificial intelligence (AI), new sustainability measures, and cloud-based solutions, there could be some […]
Security barrier systems are typically viewed as mere protective measures, installed to prevent unauthorized access and enhance safety. However, these systems offer a wealth of hidden benefits that extend far beyond their primary security function. In this guide, we’ll explore the lesser-known benefits of security barrier systems, revealing how they can be used to address […]
The University of Georgia (UGA) announced more than $7.3 million for campus security upgrades following the violent murder of 22-year-old Laken Riley. “The protection of our students, faculty, and staff at the University of Georgia is always top of mind for me and our senior administration, and we are continually evaluating our safety programs,” said […]
According to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) latest National Retail Security Survey, retail crime represented $112.1 billion in losses in 2022. To bring attention to this crucial issue, October 26 has been designated as “Fight Retail Crime Day.” In support of the NRF’s initiative, Interface Systems shares some technology-based best practices for retailers to consider. […]
We’ve all seen security gates at the mall that stop people from entering a closed store, but facilities and security managers should also install indoor and outdoor security gates in several other types of facilities, including restaurants, concession stands, arenas, hotels, parking garages, schools, museums, colleges, healthcare facilities, and airports. Additionally, security gates should be […]
The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has awarded over $20 million to harden the perimeters of K-12 schools across the state. The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) approved the LDOE’s Stronger Connections Grant program allocations to 39 traditional public and public charter systems. According to the LDOE, the funds will be used […]
The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) is launching a program to fund single-points of entry on school campuses. The agency will direct $21 million through the upcoming Stronger Connections Grant program. “We intend to use one-time funds to harden the perimeters of our schools,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “These funds will […]
Facilities managers should work with security professionals on developing an adequate security plan to protect the perimeter of their properties. Each property is unique, so highly secure locations, like military installations, will have a different plan than areas open to the public, like shopping centers. 1. Vehicle Access Control Highly secure facilities should consider installing […]