Site Security – Safely Challenging Unauthorised Persons
This article shares provides guidance on how to safely challenge individuals who may not be authorised to be on site, using the “Power of Hello” approach. It outlines when to engage, when to disengage, and how to report concerns to Site Security/Control Room, with personal safety as the overriding priority.
To all Site Managers – please ensure this guidance is shared with all site personnel
Please share the poster on your workplace notice boards – this can be found here
The Power of Hello: Safety Comes First
The “Power of Hello” is a safety approach that encourages staff to greet unfamiliar individuals on site with a polite and professional hello. This method is based on the understanding that not all intruders enter with hostile intentions—some may simply be lost or unaware of site protocols. By offering a friendly greeting, you create an environment that is welcoming for genuine visitors while simultaneously serving as a subtle challenge for those with malicious intent, as individuals with hostile motives often prefer to avoid being noticed or engaged. This approach helps maintain a balance between positive customer relations and proactive site security.
Your safety is the priority
You are never expected to place yourself at risk. If a situation feels unsafe at any point, do not engage.
When to Challenge
When assessing the Power of Hello approach consider the following:
- The person(s) is not wearing visible site ID / appropriate PPE.
- The person’s presence is out of the ordinary for the site – Remember, you know what ‘normal’ looks and feels like for your site.
- The person appears lost or otherwise furtive or suspicious.
Do Not Challenge If
- The person appears aggressive, intoxicated, or evasive.
- They are carrying a weapon or suspicious item.
- You are uncomfortable doing so.
If in doubt, disengage and report.
How to Use the Power of Hello
Position Safely
- Consult a colleague before engaging, consider taking a colleague with you.
- Keep a safe distance and do not block movement.
- Ensure a clear escape route.
Greet Politely
Use a calm, professional tone, for example:
- “Hello, can I help you?”
- “Good morning — are you visiting someone on site?”
Aim to remain friendly, confident, and non-confrontational.
Make a Simple Check
- “Do you have a site pass?”
- “Who are you here to see?”
Do not argue or demand explanations. If the individual does not cooperate, disengage and report.
Redirect or Disengage
If they are not authorised, advise: “For safety reasons, all visitors must report to reception.”
If they refuse or walk away:
- Disengage immediately.
- Observe but do not follow.
- Report to security.
Never
- Physically intervene.
- Chase or block exits.
- Raise your voice or argue.
- Put yourself between the person and assets.
If the Situation Feels Unsafe
- Disengage.
- Move to a safe location.
- Contact Site Security / Control Room / Police.
Key Points
- Be polite, not brave.
- ‘Hello’ is often enough.
- Assess, Observe, Disengage, Report.
Report all incidents, even if they appear to have been resolved. Your vigilance helps to keep everyone safe.