How to Secure a Building’s Back Door

Securing the back door of a building is really important. People tend to focus more on the front entrance security, but the back doors can be vulnerable as well. Unauthorized individuals or potential intruders may use them as an entry point.

In this article, we’ll examine some effective physical security measures that can be implemented to improve the safety of a building’s back door.

Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics

Understanding the Risk

The back door of a building, whether it’s a residential home, a commercial establishment, or an industrial facility, is often regarded as a less important entrance. As a result, it usually has weaker security measures compared to the front door, making it an attractive target for intruders. Moreover, back doors are frequently hidden from view, providing potential burglars with the necessary privacy to attempt a break-in.

Physical Security Measures

Sturdy Doors and Frames: The first line of defense is ensuring that the door and its frame are strong and durable. Metal doors or solid wood doors are preferable as they offer more resistance to forced entry. The frame should be reinforced, and the space between the door and frame should be minimal to prevent crowbars or other tools from being used to pry the door open.

High-Quality Locks: Investing in high-quality locks is crucial. Deadbolt locks, ideally with a grade 1 rating, provide significant resistance to picking, bumping, and brute force attacks. It is also advisable to use locks with anti-snap cylinders to prevent lock snapping, a common method used by burglars to gain entry.

Security Hinges: The hinges of the door should be on the inside or should have non-removable pins to prevent the door from being lifted off its hinges from the outside. Security hinges can also include built-in features to resist tampering and forced entry.

Lighting: Adequate lighting is a powerful deterrent against unauthorized entry. Motion-activated lights can surprise and scare off potential intruders, while also alerting the occupants or neighbors to unusual activity.

Alarm Systems: Installing an alarm system that triggers when the door is forced open can deter burglars and alert the authorities or a security company to a potential breach. Modern systems can send instant notifications to your phone, allowing for immediate action.

Surveillance Cameras: Visible surveillance cameras near the back door can serve as a deterrent to criminals. These cameras can also provide valuable evidence in the event of a break-in, helping law enforcement identify and catch the intruder.

Security Bars and Grilles: For high-risk areas, installing security bars or grilles on the door or adjacent windows can provide an additional layer of protection. However, it’s essential to comply with safety regulations to ensure that these measures do not impede emergency exits.

Regular Maintenance and Vigilance

Regularly inspect and maintain back doors, locks, and security equipment to ensure they are in optimal working condition. Vigilance is also key; encourage employees or household members to report any security weaknesses or suspicious activity around the back door.

Conclusion

Securing the back door of a building requires a multifaceted approach, combining physical security measures with technological solutions and vigilance. By understanding the risks and implementing the strategies discussed, you can significantly enhance the security of your building’s back door, providing peace of mind and protection for its occupants and assets.