The conversation about workplace security is not a new one. However, with the evolving demand for health-conscious solutions, the discussion of office security has taken a new turn. 

Remote work and in-office safety precautions to combat COVID-19 has triggered a movement of flexible and resilient workplaces. Employers and employees alike will no doubt see a shift in security and operational protocol in the very near future. Below, we’ll discuss how offices are preparing for just that. 

The Shift to Identity Security 

Network security refers to software – whether it be on-site or otherwise – that sets the security parameter for access authorization. What this means is that a security system grants authorization based off of an identity that the network assigns each particular individual. This identity is associated with different permissions, access, etc. New security standards made possible by new technological advances, however, are finding it more secure to associate authorization with individual identity as opposed to one that is network-assigned. 

Identity security can be assigned to any credential, such as a mobile phone or a biometric characteristic. This eliminates the risk of a physical security breach from a lost, stolen or cloned key card. Cloud managed systems make it easy to assign security permissions and authorizations to any identification credential they choose. Further, system administrators are able to change those permissions of their own volition as opposed to interacting with a third party system operator or hardware. 

When it comes to visitor management, cloud-based office intercom systems also have the capacity to assign identity to visitors within the same platform for a comprehensive access database. 

Advanced Cybersecurity for Remote Work 

Cybersecurity is a constant threat for businesses. When employees are working from the office, they use devices and protocols that are secured with the latest layers of physical and electronic security. But remote work often means that employees use personal devices and public Wi-Fi networks that can expose sensitive data to vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities can result in costly data breaches and system compromise. 

Companies are taking a proactive approach to thwart the data breach and liability challenges associated with remote work. Increasing awareness and sensitizing users on potential dangers is a great first step. Other measures include educating remote workers on preventive best practices, and implementing strict password policies with two-factor authentication. 

Coworking Spaces 

Coworking is a new take on the traditional office model. It’s incredibly flexible, convenient, and has shown to be very popular, yet there are still security challenges that need to be ironed out. 

A 2020 Clutch Survey shows that 23% of users in a co-working space are concerned with security and safety issues. To rectify this, coworking space owners and operators are allocating unique credentials and Wi-Fi passwords to users. Coworking users are also being provided with a security policy as part of their sign in agreement. 

When it comes to physical security, coworking spaces are adopting advanced, secure visitor management-like models for temporary access. This approach perfectly aligns with the primary idea behind the coworking model. 

Touchless Access Control 

Office security must ensure employee wellness in addition to physical security. The coronavirus pandemic has underscored the need to mitigate health safety risks in the office setting. Along with CDC guidelines such as social distancing, hand washing, and mask wearing, offices are leveraging technology for a more health-conscious approach to security. Touchless access control solutions are being used to reduce the need to touch high-use surfaces at entrances, exits, and elevators. This technology facilitates a frictionless and touchless access experience that encourages social distancing by reducing bottlenecking and mitigates the spread of disease. 

Conclusion

Security will continue to be a discussion among the workplace, and companies that join that conversation to utilize the latest technology and trends will remain resilient and foster business continuity. As offices move to tackle the shift in security, employees can do their best to educate themselves on the changes to come and how they work in order to create the most secure environment possible. 

This blog is printed with permission.

About the Author: Haley Fox has several years of experience as an Employment and Labor Paralegal, specializing in specialty occupation workplace visas and employer compliance. She currently works with Swiftlane to advocate for workplace innovation and safety.