A Practical Security Checklist for Schools and Institutions

List public, staff, service, and emergency openings. Confirm each door closes, latches, and supports its intended use without defeating egress requirements.

Pay special attention to doors that are propped, difficult to operate, or repeatedly repaired.

Document who needs access by role, building, and schedule. Remove obsolete credentials and recover keys during role changes.

Restricted keys or electronic credentials can improve control, but both need an owner and a documented process.

Inspect high-use openings regularly, record recurring failures, and keep plans current as spaces and responsibilities change. Layer locks, access control, and surveillance around clear procedures.