A clear opening and lock-up procedure helps staff secure a site consistently at the start and end of the day. It also reduces uncertainty around alarms, access points, visitors, deliveries, reporting and escalation.
Many businesses rely on habit rather than a written procedure. A written procedure gives staff and managers a consistent route to follow. It does not need to include sensitive information such as alarm codes or key safe codes.
If you are creating a procedure from scratch, the Business Security SOP Generator can help you build a draft. If your site also needs practical support, SPS provides Lock and Unlock Services, Keyholding and Alarm Response, and Mobile Patrols across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
What is an opening and lock-up procedure?
An opening and lock-up procedure is a written set of steps for starting and securing a workplace, site or building. It should explain:
- who is responsible for opening and closing the site
- what checks should be completed
- what access points need attention
- how alarms should be managed without recording sensitive codes
- what should happen if the site cannot be secured
- what records should be kept
- who should be contacted if something is wrong
Why businesses need a written lock-up process
A written procedure is useful when:
- more than one person opens or closes the site
- staff work early mornings, evenings or weekends
- visitors, contractors or deliveries attend site
- an alarm system is in use
- there are multiple doors, shutters, gates or external areas
- lone working or out-of-hours risks exist
For sites where staff currently respond to out-of-hours issues, a professional Keyholding and Alarm Response arrangement may help reduce risk.
Start with the purpose
Every procedure should start with a clear purpose. For example:
Purpose: To ensure the site is opened, checked, secured and locked up consistently, with clear escalation if anything prevents the procedure being completed safely.
Define the scope
The scope explains when and where the procedure applies. It should also be clear what the procedure does not cover — for example, fire evacuation may be covered by a separate procedure.
Assign responsibilities by role
A good opening and lock-up procedure should not depend on one person's memory. Use roles rather than personal names where possible.
Opening procedure: what to include
- Approach the site safely and check for obvious signs of damage or forced entry.
- Check main entrances, shutters, gates or external access points before entering where safe to do so.
- Do not enter if there are signs of a break-in, unsafe conditions or suspicious activity.
- Follow the authorised alarm unset process without recording codes in the SOP.
- Check agreed internal areas.
- Record any damage, alarm issue, access problem or concern.
- Escalate issues to the agreed manager, keyholder or security provider.
Lock-up procedure: what to include
- Confirm visitors, contractors and non-essential staff have left the premises.
- Check agreed internal areas.
- Secure windows, internal doors, external doors, shutters, gates and other access points.
- Check external areas where safe and appropriate.
- Follow the authorised alarm setting process without recording codes in the SOP.
- Record completion of the lock-up check.
- Escalate immediately if the building cannot be secured.
For businesses with regular early or late access needs, Lock and Unlock Services can help provide a consistent opening and closing routine.
What should happen if something goes wrong?
Your SOP should explain what to do if:
- the alarm will not set
- a door, gate or shutter will not secure
- signs of forced entry are found
- a visitor or contractor has not signed out
- the site cannot be secured
Avoid including sensitive details
An opening and lock-up procedure should never include alarm codes, gate codes, key safe codes, passwords or CCTV login details. Use placeholders such as "authorised alarm code holder" or "approved keyholder" instead.
Records and evidence
Clear records help managers see what happened and whether further action is needed. SPS clients can see how this works through our Client Reporting and Visibility approach.
When to consider external support
SPS Security supports businesses with Lock and Unlock Services, Keyholding and Alarm Response, Mobile Patrols, Vacant Property Security, and wider Security Review support.
Is an opening and lock-up procedure the same as a checklist?
Not always. A checklist is part of the procedure, but the full SOP should also explain purpose, scope, responsibilities, escalation, records and review.
Should a lock-up checklist include alarm codes?
No. Alarm codes, key safe codes, passwords and gate codes should never be included in a shared SOP or checklist.
Who should be responsible for lock-up?
Responsibility should sit with an authorised role such as a duty manager, site manager, facilities manager, security officer or approved external security provider.
What should happen if a site cannot be secured?
The issue should be escalated to the agreed manager, keyholder or security provider, and the action taken should be recorded.