What to Expect During a Security Audit: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on 28 October 2025

Security is a top priority for any business, but knowing where you stand can be tricky. That’s where a security audit comes in. Whether you’re managing a warehouse, retail outlet, office, or construction site, a security audit helps you identify vulnerabilities, improve your defences, and ensure compliance with industry standards. At Octagon Risk Management, we make the audit process straightforward and stress-free.

Here’s what you can expect, step by step :

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Every audit begins with a conversation. We’ll discuss your business, premises, and any specific concerns you have. This helps us understand your unique needs and tailor the audit accordingly. We’ll also explain the process and answer any questions upfront.

Step 2: Site Assessment

Our experienced auditors will visit your premises to conduct a thorough walkthrough. We’ll look at:

Access points and entry/exit procedures
Existing security systems (alarms, CCTV, lighting)
Perimeter security (fencing, gates, locks)
Areas with high-value assets or sensitive information
Emergency exits and fire safety measures
We’ll also review your current security policies and procedures.

Step 3: Staff Interviews

People are a key part of your security. We’ll speak with relevant staff to understand how policies are implemented day-to-day. This can highlight gaps between written procedures and real-world practice.

Step 4: Review of Documentation

We’ll examine your security-related documentation, such as:

Incident logs and reports
Access control records
Visitor logs
Training records for security staff
This helps ensure your paperwork is up-to-date and compliant with regulations.

Step 5: Risk Assessment

Using everything we’ve gathered, we’ll identify potential risks and vulnerabilities. This might include weak points in physical security, outdated technology, or gaps in staff training.

Step 6: Recommendations & Action Plan

After the audit, we’ll provide a clear, easy-to-understand report. This will include:

A summary of our findings
Practical recommendations for improvement
A prioritised action plan, so you know what to tackle first
We’ll walk you through the report and answer any questions, making sure you’re confident about your next steps.**

Step 7: Ongoing Support

Security isn’t a one-off job. We’re here to support you as you implement changes, whether that means providing additional training, updating your systems, or even conducting follow-up audits to measure progress.

Why Choose Octagon Risk Management?

We’re an SIA Approved Contractor, ISO 9001 certified, and committed to delivering reliable, flexible, and effective security solutions. Our audits are designed to give you peace of mind—so you can focus on running your business, knowing your people and assets are protected.

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