Now that the number one guy on the FBI’s most wanted list has left the planet, security managers are preparing employers for possible retaliation on the part of radical factions. An article written by Leischen Stelter, in Security Director News is entitled, Osama is Dead: Now is the Time to Talk to Your Staff About Terrorist Threats.
In the article, Stelter writes, —
“There is considerable concern that the killing of Bin Laden could lead to retaliatory attacks by Al Qaeda. Security Director News spoke with Michael O’Neil, a 22-year veteran of the New York City Police Department who recently retired after serving as the first Commanding Officer of the NYPD Counterterrorism Division, and is currently president of MSA Security, a training and consulting firm in New York City. O’Neil emphasized that the death of Bin Laden could trigger an emotional reaction by followers and sympathizers. “They may want to show they’re still relevant and that the movement is still strong,” he said.
And…”O’Neil recommended that security professionals use this event as an opportunity to talk with staff and employees about remaining vigilant. “Some of the recommendations we’re making to our clients at this time is to take a look at their security program,” he said. Be aware of the organization’s vulnerabilities and enhance security’s presence, if possible. Remind employees to be vigilant about persons in and around its facilities because terrorist attacks are often planned well in advance.”
The article is well worth reading. While Joe’s Garage may not be under imminent threat of terrorist attack, larger corporations with significant branding and high symbolic value may have that kind of exposure. And then, if Joe’s Garage or Arnie’s Burgers happens to be down the block, there could be the collateral effects of a terror attack. This certainly was the case in the tragedy of the World Trade Center attack where numerous business in the surrounding blocks were destroyed, damaged or otherwise adversely affected by the attack on the two towers.
Bottom line, it pays to be vigilant. No one is claiming an employer should overdo it, but vigilance is prevention, and prevention is always better than the cure. Because there is no cure, really. People are killed or injured, and property is damaged. The only act subsequent to a terror attack is picking up the pieces. And no one wants to deal with that.
So even the smaller firms should keep a watchful eye and beef up security. Make employees aware of possible threats. Without getting carried away, there are smart tactics to employ and stupid practices to allow. Be smart. As the article notes, awareness is the key.
