Lockdown Planning Checklist
Introduction
In an emergency where rapid site control is required, effective lockdown planning can make a significant difference. We’ve crafted this checklist to support in preparing strategies and tools that integrate with their access control systems for fast, safe lockdown capability.
One Example of a Checklist
Trigger & Activation
Define what triggers a lockdown (internal threat, external threat, unknown intruder).
Decide who has authority to activate it and how (PA, alarm button, access-control override).
Secure Zones
Pre-identify safe rooms and areas.
Ensure doors can be quickly secured (locks, mag-locks, emergency overrides).
Keep blinds/visibility control in place.
Access Control Integration
Ensure access control supports rapid “all-doors lock” or zoned lockdown.
Confirm overrides for fire, emergency services and safeguarding.
Communication
Clear, distinct lockdown signal.
Ability to message staff quickly (PA, SMS, app, radios).
Defined “all clear” procedure.
Staff Roles
Assign roles: initiator, sweepers, safeguarding lead, gate/door monitor, admin comms.
Make sure all substitutes and new staff know the procedure.
Students & Vulnerable Individuals
Specific plan for SEND pupils, mobility issues, visitors, contractors.
Alternative safe routes if a classroom is inaccessible.
Drills & Training
Run drills termly (or required by policy).
Log results and identify weaknesses.
Refresh training annually.
Post Event Procedures
Debrief staff.
Log timings, issues, door faults, communication failures.
Update the plan and re-circulate.
Jane
Team Industrial
Maci
NHS Coventry
Jarrod
RAF Museum
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