There are several key reasons why these rules fall down in practice. Firstly, staffing. Reliably dedicating a staff member to *every* visitor, for the *entirety* of their visit, can strain resources, especially in facilities with high visitor volumes or limited personnel. Secondly, the ‘burden’ often falls on operational teams who already have full workloads. It’s easy for escort duties to be seen as an interruption, leading to shortcuts or inconsistent application. Thirdly, visitor flow and facility layout can make effective escorting difficult. Complex sites with numerous zones require careful planning to ensure escorts maintain control and awareness.
Here are a few actionable insights we’ve found helpful:
- Pre-planning is crucial: Before a visitor arrives, map out their route and identify dedicated escort personnel. Don’t rely on ‘whoever is available’ in the moment.
- Technology can assist: Implement a visitor management system that flags two-person escort requirements and provides reporting on compliance. Automated reminders for escorts are also valuable.
- Training is essential: Escorts need training not just on the rules, but also on situational awareness, communication, and how to handle potential security breaches.
- Prioritise risk: Not all visitors or areas require the same level of escorting. Risk assessments can help you tailor the rules to specific situations, optimising resource allocation.
Ultimately, successful two-person escort rules aren’t about creating more work; they’re about integrating security into existing workflows. A robust visitor management system, combined with clear procedures and dedicated training, will significantly improve compliance and strengthen your overall security posture. If you’re struggling with this, a review of your current visitor management processes is a good next step – identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement will make a real difference.
