Tips for Robbery Prevention & Procedure in the Workplace

Businesses that deal in cash are especially prone to robberies. In a perfect world, burglaries wouldn’t happen and they definitely wouldn’t happen while employees are present. But, we find it’s best to be prepared for the worst-case scenario at all times. Check out our do’s and don’ts for preventing and responding to robberies in the workplace!

 

Robbery Prevention

DON’T

• Don’t have less than two employees on staff at any given time.
• Don’t leave back entry doors unlocked when not in use.
• Don’t keep a lot of cash in the register.
• Don’t block the view of the register from outside.
• Don’t skip the drug screenings, background, and reference checks for new hires.
• Don’t balance the cash in the register out in the open.

DO

• Install a monitored alarm system.
• Install high-def, IP surveillance cameras in both suspecting and unsuspecting areas.
• Make frequent bank deposits using varied routes and employees in an unmarked bag.
• Greet all patrons who enter the business, making eye contact with each one.
• Keep all areas well lit.
• Trim bushes and trees, which typically serve as hiding places for burglars.
• Use marking on the doorway to help determine the height of the robber.
• Use a dual key, drop or delay-action time-lock safe.

If after you’ve done your best to prevent it but your business is robbed anyway, be sure your staff knows how to handle the situation. Create a written procedure and discuss it often. Having it top of mind will help prevent freezing or panicking when the unexpected happens!

 

Robbery Procedure

DON’T

• Activate the holdup alarm unless it can be done discreetly.
• Encourage the use of violence or weapons.
• Volunteer additional help (but do follow all demands).
• Follow or chase after the robber.

DO

• Make personal safety top priority above all else.
• Train employees to stay calm and comply.
• Move slowly and announce any other employees on premises.
• Lock the doors and call the police once the burglar is gone.
• Note the burglar’s method of escape and direction of travel.
• Ask any witnesses to stay for the police report.
• Install business security cameras and an alarm system with 24/7 alarm monitoring if you hadn’t already done so!

When the perceived reward (profit) is worth the risk (being arrested), crime is more likely to happen. Your goal is to decrease the perceived reward and increase the perceived risk. Per Mar can help! Get in touch with us for a free evaluation of your business’ security!