Between mid-May and mid-June, rare synchronous fireflies, or “lightning bugs,” illume the swampy waters of Congaree National Park. These fireflies are unique because they light up at the same time and work together to make flashing patterns.
We can learn from this local natural wonder when it comes to piggybacking.
Piggybacking is when you let the person behind you enter a secure building or internal area without scanning his or her ID badge. It can expose the people you work with and the members you serve to a wide range of risks.
Like fireflies, we need to sync up and act as a unit. If we all follow these rules, we can keep everyone safe:
- After you scan your ID badge to enter a building or secure internal area, make sure the door closes securely behind you. You should also make sure the door closes when you leave.
- Treat doors to secure internal areas with the same care as external doors.
- Each person should scan his or her ID badge. The door should be securely closed before and after each person scans. This should be the case even if you are with a group of your colleagues.
- Never hold the door for anyone, even if the person has an ID badge. Remember that ID badges might be fake.
- Remember that bad actors can be tricky. If someone tries to slip in or asks you to hold the door, direct him or her to the front of the building to check in with security.
- If you see or suspect you’ve seen someone piggybacking, tell security immediately.
Together, we can shine a light on piggybacking and create a safe workplace. Let’s leave piggybackers out in the dark.
