Security is the overall responsibility of the club General Manager, but is usually delegated to department heads in various areas of the operation. These individuals have close contact with and daily supervision of their areas and are in the best position to ensure their security.
Areas of Specific Concern
The following areas, because of the value of items maintained therein, should have assigned responsibility for security and written opening and closing procedures to ensure that they are properly monitored or secured at all times.
Retail Shops and Storage Areas. Retail shops have large, expensive, and desirable inventories and should be closely controlled. Closing employees must be trained and held accountable for properly securing the retail and storage areas. Because of the value of the inventory, retail outlets will normally have security systems to include door contacts, motion sensors, and video cameras.
Food Storerooms and Walk-ins & Alcoholic Beverage Storage. The same applies to any areas that contain food or alcoholic beverage stocks.
Kitchens & Bars. Kitchens and bars not only have stocks of food and beverage, but also valuable equipment and supplies. Also, they are among the last of club facilities to close for business. Assigning responsibility and accountability for security of these areas is of paramount concern.
Cart Barn. The cart barn or storage area contains high value equipment and supplies and is usually open later than the golf shop. Often, line employees are left to close up without management supervision.
Bag Storage. In some cases members have thousands of dollars invested in their golf clubs and bag. Further, the club charges an annual fee for storing the members clubs on the premises. Theft of members’ equipment is extremely embarrassing to the club and warrants extra efforts to protect the members’ investment.
Pools. Swimming pools represent both a security and a safety hazard. While there is some danger of theft of pool equipment and seating, the larger concern is of unauthorized use and vandalism.
Golf Course Maintenance Shop. The Golf Course Maintenance facility is filled with high-priced equipment. Add to this its usually remote (and often concealed) location, and it can be a tempting target for thieves. Having an appropriate and monitored security system is essential to protect the club’s large investment here.
Summary
The effort of all security practices and devices should be the prevention of loss and the safety of members, guests, and employees. While well-designed security systems can go a long way to limit the club’s risk, it is for naught if employees are not properly trained to operate the system, do not have assigned accountability for security matters, and are not vigilant regarding security matters. In the final analysis, technology can be a great aid to ensuring security, but ultimately the security of a club rests upon the interest and vigilance of its management.
Thanks and have a great day!
Ed Rehkopf
This weekly blog comments on and discusses the club industry and its challenges. From time to time, we will feature guest bloggers — those managers and industry experts who have something of interest to say to all of us. We also welcome feedback and comment upon the blog, hoping that it will become a useful sounding board for what’s on the minds of hardworking club managers throughout the country and around the world.
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