Many offices employ outside contractors to provide maintenance or cleaning in their building both during and after office hours. Bringing outside workers in your office space often presents concerns about security. How can you select the most secure contractors for your business?

First be sure to research the contractor. Can the business provide strong references of previous work? Also make sure the company can provide you with references of similar businesses both in size and needs of your office space.

Crew selection is another important factor in security. Since crews will have the most interaction with your building and tenants, check the screening procedures your contractor utilizes in selection. You will have to depend on your contractor to screen and hire quality people, train them, and provide supervision and direction. Do not hesitate to ask for background information on who will be supervising in your building.

A final factor to consider is uniformed employees and equipment. Crews will access every part of your building, often when no one else is around. Clearly identified uniforms, vehicles, and equipment will help reassure your employees and provide you additional peace of mind.

Making the right decisions on vendor security can present a huge difference in tenant and employee satisfaction...It might be literally a life-or-death decision.