What to do if…
your building access badge stops working and you are told to wait outside

What to do now

1. Move to a safer waiting place while staying compliant.
   If you are outside in cold, rain, heat, or somewhere that feels unsafe, tell security briefly: “I will wait in reception, the lobby, or the café next door. I am reachable by phone.” Then do that.

2. Ask one clear question and write down the answer.
   Ask: “Is my badge not working because of a technical issue, or have I been instructed not to enter?” Note the time, who answered, and the exact words used.

3. Ask security or reception to log the access problem.
   Ask whether there is a ticket number, incident log, or named person who authorised the instruction to keep you outside. Do not argue if they will not give details.

4. Message your line manager, then HR if needed.
   Keep it factual: “I am on site. My badge is not working. Security has told me to wait outside. I am waiting at [place] and I am available to work. Please confirm what you want me to do now, whether I may enter the building, and whether I should remain available today.”

5. Ask for written instructions.
   Send: “Please confirm in writing what I should do today and who my point of contact is.” Email, text, or a workplace messaging app is enough for this first step.

6. Ask for an escorted retrieval if essentials are inside.
   If your coat, medication, keys, wallet, bag, or work laptop are inside, ask security, your manager, or HR for an escorted collection. Keep it limited to essentials; do not start clearing your desk.

7. If anyone starts asking about allegations or conduct, slow the meeting down.
   Ask: “Is this an investigation meeting or a disciplinary hearing?” If it is an investigation meeting, there is generally no legal right to be accompanied, but you can ask to bring a workplace colleague or trade union representative. If it is a disciplinary hearing, ask to use your right to be accompanied and ask for the details, evidence, possible outcomes, and timing in writing.

8. If they say you are suspended, clarify the basics before you leave.
   Ask for written confirmation of the start date and time, who your contact person is, whether it is with pay, what work systems or workplace contact you must avoid, whether you must stay available, and when you will next hear from them.

9. Keep a simple record.
   Write down the time your badge failed, who you spoke to, where you waited, what you were told, and any messages you sent or received. Keep it factual and short.