Transitioning from Construction to Operation: Maintaining Safety & Security During Industrial Site Setup.

When transitioning an industrial site from construction to operation, ensuring safety and security is paramount. At GardaWorld Security, we are a one-stop shop for security, offering a turnkey solution to our clients. Our goal is simple: ensuring your employees go home safely at the end of the day. As a security integrator, we identify gaps not only in physical security systems but also in logistics, policies, and procedures. "Taking a holistic approach to security is key," explains C.J. Quinton, GardaWorld Security’s Senior Director of Industrial & Indigenous Relations for Western Canada. Security often falls under Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S), and many companies fail to allocate a dedicated security budget during construction. “That’s not ideal. You always have safety as a focus, especially employee safety, as setting a positive culture begins with security", adds C.J.

Security Systems Integration: Bridging the Gaps Early

One of the biggest challenges during the transition phase is ensuring that security systems are fully integrated and operational before the site becomes active. Due to the nature of industrial sites, third-party construction companies often implement temporary mitigations often without consultation from the site owners. "That handoff means different policies, procedures, and operational methods, which may not align with the values of the site owner," says C.J. Quinton. "As security providers, we are not starting from scratch, but we are often making significant changes to ensure smooth integration."

The solution? Early involvement. “Engaging security experts like us early in the process will save both time and money,” advises C.J. Often, companies rely on their IT departments to manage security system inventories, such as camera procurement and placement. “But specific knowledge is critical. For example, when placing License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras, you have to take in many considerations like distance, height, angles and lighting to name a few. That’s where we come in, as a turnkey security solutions provider," he adds.

In addition, GardaWorld Security has the expertise to assist clients in detailing the specific requirements to be included in their Request for Proposals (RFPs). “The more consulting we do early on, the more comprehensive and cost-effective the bids can be,” says C.J., emphasizing that early involvement ensures that all needs, technical and regulatory, are well covered.

Access Control Management: Layered Security for Complex Sites

Establishing effective access control measures is essential for regulating who can enter and exit a site. One major challenge is that various people need access, including workers, local communities, and others with legal rights to be on-site. “Our approach to access control management is to design multilayered systems that address the needs of everyone while ensuring security,” explains C.J.

Being a turnkey provider, GardaWorld Security integrates access control with other security measures, offering clients time and cost efficiencies. Early conversations, especially during walk-throughs, help tailor access control strategies. “It’s also crucial to consult with Indigenous and local communities from the start, as they know the area and people better than anyone and can play key roles in emergency responses," C.J. highlights.

C.J. also stresses the importance of planning for the future state of the site: It is not just about where the gates or cameras are now; it’s about where they’ll need to be as the site evolves. The end goal must be kept in mind, and you need to account for all the physical and legal considerations.”

The Essential Integration of Technology and Personnel

The integration of security systems with physical security personnel is of paramount importance for remote industrial sites. These locations, often characterized by vast distances and isolation, face unique security challenges that require a multifaceted approach. By combining advanced surveillance technologies with trained security guards, organizations can establish a comprehensive security framework that not only deters unauthorized access but also enables real-time monitoring and rapid response to potential threats. This dual strategy enhances situational awareness and facilitates effective management of emergencies. GardaWorld Security is well-positioned to provide tailored security solutions that address the specific needs of remote industrial operations, thereby ensuring the protection of critical assets across the extensive Canadian landscape.
 

Emergency Response Planning: Comprehensive Preparedness in Remote Locations

Developing emergency response plans is critical during the transition phase. One of the biggest challenges clients often overlook is the quality of life in remote camps. “Employees are away from home for long periods, and staying connected with loved ones becomes crucial for their well-being,” says C.J.

The solution? Focusing on quality of life in the camp makes a huge difference. C.J. emphasizes the need for stress management and a safe camp culture.

Another key to emergency preparedness is proper coverage and resource allocation. “We’ve learned a lot from past experiences like the Fort McMurray wildfires,” says C.J. "One of the most important lessons is the value of shared emergency resources. In remote areas, industrial sites - often operated by competitors - can benefit from pooling resources like ambulances, helicopters, and medics."

Thinking ahead is everything. Clients don’t always factor in things like natural disasters or remote location challenges. That’s why having security involved early can help detect these issues and ensure preparedness.

Always Start with Safety

At GardaWorld Security, we provide turnkey security solutions, integrating every aspect of security under one roof. "The key is to always start with safety," emphasizes C.J. Quinton. For GardaWorld Security, security means ensuring the safety of everyone on site - from the construction phase to full operation. Whether it’s access control, emergency planning, or system integration, we’ve got the expertise to ensure your industrial site is safe and secure from the very beginning.

To learn more about our security solutions, contact our experts.