Employees Are Our Best Security Force

The best security force for our facilities is the people who work there. You know if there are problem areas in your building. You know how to get in and out. You know how to compromise security, and you may even know a few people who do that. That’s why YOU are the best security guard. Each of us seriously must take this responsibility if we are to keep secure ourselves and our facility.

Sometimes it’s easier to leave open a door because it’s closer to the swing room or the credit union, or because it makes it easier to get to the parking lot. But we can’t sacrifice security for convenience. And you are sacrificing the security of ALL employees if you keep a door propped open when it should be closed.

It only takes one open door to compromise the security of the entire building. When a door that should be locked is left open, a breach in our security perimeter occurs. Unfortunately, there are unauthorized people with criminal intent who are waiting for just such an opportunity to get inside your building.

We can’t compromise safety and security. Locking facility doors and vehicles are our first line of defense. Remember these security measures:

-- We know that doors must be opened to let employees and the mail in and out. But at all other times, they must be closed and locked.
-- Make sure that all doors close and that all locks properly function.
-- We also must make sure this “closed door” policy doesn’t compromise safety. If people quickly have to get out because of fire, for example, they must have a clear path.
-- Only authorized personnel are allowed in our facilities.
-- Wear your Postal ID badge that authorizes you to be in your facility.
-- Anyone without an ID badge must wait outside until cleared for entrance by a supervisor.
-- Each time you inspect your vehicle, visually verify that any government license plates (USPS or GSA) still are affixed.
-- Designated employees must complete a daily vehicle inventory and document the results. A PS Form 4569 or local worksheet can be used, as long as all vehicles assigned to the operation are identified. When a vehicle is overnight at a service station or dealer’s facility, you must contact the vendor daily to ensure that the vehicle is still at that site.
-- IMMEDIATELY report anything missing.
-- Remove keys from the vehicle when not in use, and keep all doors locked. If you are delivering, collecting, or transporting mail, you must secure your vehicle at all times. If you cannot maintain the vehicle in your direct, full sight and be absolutely sure that neither the vehicle’s interior or its contents are tampered with, then the vehicle must be locked.