The duty of care that education officials have, in providing a safe environment for everyone on their premises, is arguably more challenging in today’s world than it has ever been. One area that should be identified for regular review is Emergency Lockdown. Andrew Shaw, architectural consultant for Allegion UK, calls for more schools to consider a number of security solutions to further improve their lockdown protocols.
Everyone involved in the running of schools has a duty to ensure the safety of the children in their care at all times, provide a safe and secure environment for learning and be prepared for any emergency, including lockdowns.
Schools are one of the most vulnerable targets when it comes to break-ins and even full-scale attacks. However, by preparing and planning for the worst, we can design and facilitate both a safe and inspiring space for learning.
Access control is a critical aspect of any school safety strategy. It’s the way a school manages credentials and the safe access and exit of pupils, staff and visitors on a daily basis. However, in the unfortunate event of an emergency, access control is not enough.
Every school should have a lockdown procedure that determines or defines the state of each opening of the building on demand or as soon as an emergency is detected.
Not only do schools need to implement a sufficient lockdown procedure for cases of emergencies, but the appropriate lockdown needs to be in place after-hours to secure the school when everyone has gone home for the day.
The bottom line
The security of our schools is of paramount importance, yet security sytems and hardware are often overlooked. It is not uncommon for necessary upgrades and replacements to be put back or even omitted entirely, due to budget constraints or other challenges.
However, we at Allegion believe strongly that ensuring the complete integrity of any security protocol at all times is essential, and that hardware and security systems are the defining cornerstones of any good school lockdown procedure.
Not withstanding this, schools are under intense budget pressures. The scope of security solutions available to the UK market, however, means that schools can find systems best suited to their needs and budget. From mechanical to electronic or a combination, schools can implement an efficient and secure lockdown protocol, even when limited by budget.
Lockdown hardware
When it comes to choosing the right hardware, a one-size-fits-all approach does not work.
Each school is individual and, as such, access control solutions should be tailored to and dependent on the school and its unique security requirements.
There are a number of things to consider when it comes to selecting the right hardware solutions. For example, the severity of potential risks, the age of the building, budget and the long-term security strategy can all be influencing factors.
Based on these judgements, it’s important to consider whether you will want a manual, remote or centralised system – or a combination of any of the three.
Manual lockdown
Perhaps the most recognisably traditional of the three, manual systems are the ones everyone will know and use.
These are probably one of the most economical lockdown solutions, and rely on an individual having the physical key in hand to lock down a room or space.
Mechanical keys are a cost-effective option for a wide range of applications. However, it is the least secure lockdown method as the speed of lockdown is dependent on how fast a staff member can get to the door and lock it.
Remote lockdown
These are solutions ideal for schools that want to upgrade lockdown systems but are reluctant to step into the costs that come with networked systems.
Using this methiod, classrooms are locked down by remote fob within proximity of the door. However, they still rely on multiple staff members for lockdown.
Centralised
Centralised solutions can be one of the most secure lockdown types, requiring only a single point of accountability.
Centralised access control systems are activated via a computer or smartphone. With the simple push of a button, all openings can be locked throughout the building – making this the fastest lockdown solution.
Increased security, decreased risk
No matter the budget, schools are able to find effective lockdown options for their requirements. Even in older school premises, the effective use of electronic and wireless solutions, perhaps combined with the existing mechanical system, is easily achieved and cost effective.
Whatever system is selected, the end result is an emergency lockdown protocol that helps ensure the safety of our children as they learn, rest and play.
