Risk Management at a Glance for Ontario Schools
Building Security
The level and type of building security will vary from school to school. Several factors must be considered when determining the level of security for your school, such as:
- Location of the school - urban vs rural, local crime rates (vandalism, arson, assaults);
- Age of students attending school - elementary vs secondary;
- Building design - alcoves, hiding spaces, roof access, over grown shrubs;
- After-hours use of the building;
One of the major problems with school buildings is the number of entry points. Most of these entrances are in remote parts of the building, making it difficult for the office staff to "intercept" visitors before they can proceed to other parts of the building.
Risk Management Recommendations:
During School Hours:
- Restrict external access to the building. Fire codes require exit doors to open freely from the inside, but entrance into the building should only be permitted through designated doors.
- The designated entrance doors should channel all "traffic" into the main office of the school, a reception area or main lobby where school staff are on duty.
- All visitors must sign in and out. It is highly recommended that badges marked "VISITOR" be issued. Visitors should not be left to wander the halls looking for the person they are meeting. If possible, have them wait in the central area for the person they are meeting.
- All school staff should be aware of the visitor sign-in policy. An unknown person wandering the halls without a "VISITOR" badge should be escorted to the main office. If this is not possible, or there is resistance or personal threat, do not challenge the person - contact the office immediately and request assistance.
After School Hours:
- See section on "Permit Holders"
- Special events, such as dances, graduation ceremonies, parent-teacher nights, fun fairs, etc. may require special security measures. Contact your Board office.
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