Safety Corner -This Month’s Reminders:
- Always follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures
- Use proper PPE in all environments
- Stay hydrated and alert during high-temperature work conditions
Why It Is a Good Idea to Incorporate Frequent Background Checks into Your Business
In the security and life safety industry, trust is the foundation of the entire profession.
Security systems, life safety systems installed and tested properly could minimize or avoid first responders dealing with an incident or a disaster.
The High Stakes of Security Roles
Unlike many other industries, security and life safety professionals play a direct role in protecting people, assets, and information. They may have access to:
- Restricted areas and sensitive data
- Security systems, alarm codes, and surveillance networks
- Personal or confidential client information
- Emergency response protocols
A single bad hire in this environment can compromise entire systems and put lives at risk.
Why Background Checks Are Essential to Reduce Liability & Legal Risk
If an organization hires someone without due diligence and that person causes harm, the company could be held legally responsible under negligent hiring laws. Failure to perform background checks can lead to:
- Lawsuits
- Financial penalties
- Possible loss of certifications
- Damage to the company's reputation
Maintaining Client Trust
Clients expect security providers to deliver reliable and vetted personnel. A single incident involving an unvetted employee can erode years of trust.
The Cost of Skipping Background Checks
While background checks require time and resources, skipping them can cost far more:
Risk Potential Impact
Theft or sabotage Financial loss, system compromise
Workplace violence Injury or loss of life
Legal liability Lawsuits and settlements
Reputation damage Loss of clients and contracts
Industry Spotlight: Convergence is Accelerating
The integration of security, fire alarm, and other low voltage systems is no longer optional, it’s becoming the standard. AI is playing a significant role in increasing the demand for single pane of glass in IT and IoT ecosystems.
Key trends continuing to gain traction:
- Unified platforms combining Alarm, Access Control, and IP video
- Cloud-enabled monitoring and diagnostics
- Increased focus on cyber-secure devices and networks
- Demand for real-time analytics and remote management
Time to Reinforce Compliance & Readiness Across Key Focus Areas Including:
- Prioritize preventative maintenance ahead of peak summer lightning, and hurricane season.
- Schedule inspections and testing ahead of due dates.
- Verify documentation and inspection records are audit ready.
- Where possible upgrade legacy panels nearing end-of-life to avoid last-minute system failures.
Welcoming New Volunteers:
I would like to take this opportunity and highlight the commitment from some of our new committee team members. Please join me in welcoming the following new committee members:
Van Linn (Encore Fire Protection) Education Committee
Will Ford (Summitt Fire Consulting) Legislative Committee
Glen Walter (Scutum North America) Membership Committee
Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment.
Farshid Pourgolafshan
IAF President |
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