Property crime rates in Canada, while still historically low, are on the rise. A recent study from the Fraser Institute found that large urban areas across the country rank quite highly, even relative to some U.S. cities. For instance, Toronto was found to have a 40 per cent higher property crime rate than New York.

Safety and risk mitigation have become even more vital to facility management operations. Incorporating such strategies into security protocols is crucial for reducing these incidents and safeguarding both customers and properties.

Security plays a fundamental role in preventing and reducing break-ins, theft, and vandalism. Effective security measures should be proactive rather than reactive, identifying and eliminating vulnerabilities before they become liabilities.

Regular inspection and risk assessments will help determine what security measures buildings and sites may need. Identifying risks early can prevent incidents before they occur. Here are some top preventative recommendations to help assess if properties are geared for safety:

• Are there hazards or threats at entrances, equipment areas, land or property, garages, or parking lots?
• Do not forget to consider operating hours: is it safer to potentially minimize evening work hours or make areas safer at night?
• Who has access to your building? Is it safer to create a key card entrance system for all employees and require visitors to check-in at reception with credentials?
• Install cameras and CCTV coverage strategically in high-risk areas to proactively identify and mitigate threats and monitor around-the-clock in parking lots, garages, supply areas, and entrances.
• Signage: indicating that you have an active alarm or surveillance system is a simple yet effective risk mitigation tool. It is an inexpensive deterrent that reinforces security presence and discourages criminal behaviour.
• Security Patrols and Guards: Having visible security patrols can prevent incidents before they occur, reassuring staff and customers. Trained personnel can respond quickly to security threats, making this an effective risk mitigation measure.
• Emergency lighting and motion detectors: These enhance safety in garages and car parks, helping prevent theft, accidents, and unauthorized activities. They also act as an added risk mitigation tool by improving visibility and deterring crime.
• Strengthening property boundaries can serve as a major deterrent. Consider adding fencing, concrete barriers, security patrols and CCTV monitors.
• With growing media coverage, we have real-time access to security incidents occurring in facilities worldwide. These occurrences will help us combat unplanned violences that are happening in our communities.

After the assessment, develop a plan that strengthens security measures, ensuring that risk mitigation strategies are built into existing operational plans.

A good security plan usually includes accountability. The assessment should include who is responsible for each area and establish a quarterly or yearly review to identify any changes that require updates to the security plan.

By implementing a layered security approach, facility managers can integrate these risk measures into their safety strategies, offering greater protection to staff, customers, and our facilities. Engaging with customers in safety ideas can help identify gaps that may otherwise be overlooked.

Safety assessment and implementation plans should be reviewed annually for continuous improvement. A well-structured plan not only enhances security but also reduces internal crime and employee theft. As facility managers, ensuring the safety of our customers is not just a duty—it’s our top priority.

Marcia O’Connor is president of AM FM Consulting Group, Chair of Membership & Education for IFMA’s Greater Toronto and South Central Ontario and lead instructor for the University of Toronto School of Continued Studies, Facility Management Certificate Program. She is a strategic-minded leader with more than 20-plus years of progressive experience in corporate real estate, asset management, and integrated facilities management. Marcia has a passion for mentoring young professionals and helping people, teams, and organizations see their potential.