Office Opening and Closing Procedures

• Risk of physical injury or medical emergency
• Threat of assault or robbery
• Poor lighting when walking to and from the vehicle
• Slippery surfaces (weather dependent)

Psychosocial: 

• Closing Hazards: Fatigue or Rushing

• Alarm panic button(s) (if installed or available)

Administrative: 

• Active Work Alone Plan

• Health and Safety Orientation
• Work alone training

Pre-Operation

1. Complete a Visual Scan of the Area:
   1. Before parking, drive around the office building to identify anything or anyone unusual or out of place.
2. Park Securely:
   1. Park as close to the office entrance as possible.
3. Prepare to Enter:
   1. Keep your keys or key card ready and have your cell phone accessible.
   2. Remain vigilant and ensure no one is following you.

During Operation

1. Enter Safely:
   1. Unlock the office entrance door and enter the building promptly.
   2. Ensure the door locks securely behind you and confirm the keys are not left in the lock.
2. Turn on the Lights:
   1. If the lights do not turn on automatically, switch them on.
3. Disable the Alarm System:
   1. Enter your personal alarm code to disable the system.
4. Inspect the Office:
   1. As you make your way to your work area, look for anything unusual or out of place.
   2. Report any identified hazards to the safety department or building manager.

Post Operation

1. Notify Your Work Alone Buddy:
   1. Inform them that you have entered the building and specify the area(s) where you will be working, as outlined in your Work Alone Plan.

Closing the Office: 

Pre-Operation

• Inspect the Office:
  • Walk through the office to confirm that no one is left behind.
• Assess the Exterior Area:
  • Before exiting, check outside for anyone or anything suspicious.

During Operation

• Arm the Alarm System:
  • Enter your personal alarm code to activate the system.
• Turn Off the Lights:
  • If the lights do not turn off automatically, switch them off.
• Exit and Secure the Building:
  • Leave the office, ensuring the door is locked or fully latched if it locks automatically.
• Prepare to Leave Safely:
  • Have your car keys or key fob ready and keep your cell phone accessible.
  • Move attentively toward your vehicle and ensure no one is following you.

Post Operation

1. Secure Yourself in Your Vehicle:
   1. Lock your doors immediately upon entering the vehicle.
2. Notify Your Work Alone Buddy:
   1. Inform them that you are safely in your vehicle and leaving the premises as part of your Work Alone Plan.