Visitor Management Doesn't Have To Be Expensive

Oct 23, 2007 4:26 PM

Threats and potential dangers can be found in most neighborhoods throughout the nation. Every school needs a visitor-management plan that is well-written, well-rehearsed and well-enforced as one of the first steps in protecting people and property, according to an article in American School & University, a sister publication.

School administrators no longer can pretend that their facilities are safe havens from the troubles that occur in society.

A visitor-management plan should include basic policies and procedures, which generally are inexpensive and easy to carry out. Other simple, low-tech steps can add another level of protection. Electronic security solutions offer a higher level of protection that many schools can afford.

In a basic visitor-management plan, a school should:

* Limit the number of campus entries. Elementary schools, in particular, should have one entry into the campus for students, parents and other visitors. High school campuses should limit access to only a few entries. While classes are in session, those entries should be closed and locked to outsiders.

* Assign school resource officers or administrative staff to each access point immediately before and after school and during lunch (if students are permitted to leave campus) to monitor who enters the campus.

* Require all teachers and staff to wear a photo ID badge at all times while on the school grounds. Badges can be issued as employees are hired.

* Require that all parents, volunteers, vendors and other visitors register in the office. All visitors should show a state-issued identification card, provide a home telephone number, state a reason for being on campus, and note their time of arrival. A school staff member should provide a temporary identification badge that must be worn at all times on campus.

* Instruct all teachers and staff members to immediately challenge any adult walking about the campus without an identification badge. If the person refuses to leave, local law enforcement should be summoned.

* Make a written record of the school's visitor-management plan, and give a copy to every teacher and staff member. Discuss and practice the plan regularly, such as before the start of a school year. Also, plan on reviewing the plan a couple of times during the year.

To read the entire article, go to asumag.com/security/access_control/university_visiting/

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