Labor Day Weekend Supply Chain & Perimeter Security Protocols

Original content supplied by J.J. Coughlin and SC-ISAC. Additions made by Electric Guard Dog.

As we head into the Labor Day holiday, the long weekend running September 4 through 7 poses threats for major strikes in cargo theft. Labor Day is always the starting gun for an average 61% increase in cargo theft because stores start stocking up for Black Friday.

To prepare, we are urging the entire SC-ISAC membership to discuss perimeter security and review their security procedures and protocols. Below is a list of suggestions to help maintain the integrity.

 For Facilities: 

• Check security alarm and surveillance systems to ensure proper working order. 
• Test security systems — including Electric Guard Dog — to ensure that the entire system is functioning and that monitoring company(ies) are receiving signals. 
• If there is a fault in your Electric Guard Dog system, skilled technicians are available 24/7 for troubleshooting on the phone. In many situations, issues can be resolved within a day. 
• Perform perimeter checks: look at your electric fence, non-electrified fence and other types of barriers to ensure they are properly secured. 
• Check perimeter lighting to ensure lights are on and replace any non-working fixtures. Review timer so that lights come on while facility is closed. 
• Ensure company alarm call list is current and contains valid phone numbers. Require responsible persons to respond to all alarm calls even if the system is suspected of malfunctioning. 
• Contact law enforcement and ask for additional patrols in the area. 
• Remove keys from all warehouse equipment (forklifts) and place them in a secure location.

For Freight In-Transit: 

• If you have to leave your rig or loaded trailer unattended, look for a secure lot or authorized location to leave vehicles. 
• If forced to leave vehicles at a public facility (truck stop, etc.) pick one that is well lit and utilizes surveillance equipment. Park within view of the camera. 
• Secure the tractor and trailer with a steering wheel locking device, kingpin locks, glad-hand locks (or other security equipment).  Put industrial strength padlocks on trailer doors. 
• Do NOT leave keys inside tractor. 
• Check on the unattended vehicles as frequently as possible.

Be smart, be safe, and be secure. If you worry about perimeter security, contact us for a free evaluation.

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