Going to school is supposed to be part of the normal routine for all K-12 students. Times change, though, and the current COVID-19 pandemic has certainly changed the way students attend school. This means that there is ample opportunity to rethink the design of schools – not so much the layout as ways to ensure the safety of everyone when they can finally return to campus.
Fireproofing
There are many ways a fire could break out in a school setting. It’s virtually impossible to stop all fires from happening, but fireproofing is a step in the right direction. That way, from the kitchen to the science classrooms, you can ensure that there is a higher degree of safety. Some measures that school districts can take include installing fire extinguishers and fire doors; installing panic hardware and security locks; and of course, emergency exits and exit systems.
Stop Theft
Another common problem affecting campus safety is the possibility of theft. This can happen during the school year if it proceeded as normal, but with buildings vacant, the possibility has increased. This is where access control enters the picture. Access and safety technologies are always improving, and even schools and districts with tight budgets can afford to install some; it’s all in the name of safety.
Prevent Intruder Entry
Another concern is that of intruders. As we have mentioned before, break-ins are on the rise due to the school buildings being empty indefinitely. Preventing intruder entry is one of the building blocks of K-12 campus safety, and it also applies to colleges and universities. Access systems make a difference here, as it can trigger a lockdown more quickly. Newer locks have an “intruder function’ that locks the door; however, the knob or handle can rotate freely without appearing to do so from the outside. The inside of the door lock remains unlocked so that room occupants can leave once the lockdown is lifted.
Decrease Touchpoints
Touchpoints are often overlooked in normal times. However, the era of Coronavirus has changed everything. Examples of touchless technology include swing doors, touchless switches, actuators, barrier-free washroom controllers, and antimicrobial finishes. Hygiene protocols are essential, but these measures can help.
Trust the Professionals at ARK Systems
Located in Columbia, Maryland, ARK Systems provides unsurpassed quality and excellence in the security industry, from system design through to installation. We handle all aspects of security with local and remote locations. With over 30 years in the industry, ARK Systems is an experienced security contractor. Trust ARK to handle your most sensitive data storage, surveillance, and security solutions. Contact ARK Systems at 1-800-995-0189 or click here today. Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!