Security at the Primate Rescue Center isn’t just about locks and doors—it’s about ensuring a safe, stable and enriching environment for both the primates and the humans who care for them. Every aspect of our facility’s security is designed with one goal in mind: absolute reliability. Our residents are intelligent, observant and incredibly strong beings who require careful management. That’s why we take security seriously, from our rigorous locking protocols to high-security doors built to withstand both time and the elements.
Securing Every Door, Every Time: Protocols That Leave No Room for Error
Security is a nonstop commitment—one that relies on precision, teamwork and 36 padlocks securing the chimpanzees’ living spaces alone and over 100 padlocks securing all the monkeys’ enclosures. With human error being the most likely cause of a security breach, we follow a strict redundancy system to eliminate risk.
Every entry point follows a two-door policy, ensuring two barriers are always between primates and human-access areas. Before caregivers enter, a two-person check and double-count of individuals is required, followed by radio confirmation to verify clearance.
A key aspect in maintaining focus and reliability is our adoption of the concept of Shisa Kanko, or “Pointing and Calling”—a Japanese method used in high-risk industries to reduce mistakes. Caregivers physically point to each lock or door and call out its status in radio calls with a confirmation from another caregiver, reinforcing awareness and accuracy.
Caregiver Michelle Meeker secures and double-checks the locks on the chimps’ outdoor enclosure.
Caregiver Sidney Schwarz points the the secured locks as she announces it over the two-way radio.
These layered protocols ensure that every door is locked, every count is correct and every primate and caregiver remain safe—every single time.
Strong security isn’t just about keeping our caregivers safe—it’s also about protecting the primates themselves. A secure environment creates stability, allowing the primates to feel comfortable, relaxed and focused on their daily enrichment and social interactions. By investing in top-tier security measures, we ensure that our residents can continue to live peacefully in a sanctuary built just for them—one where their intelligence, strength and curiosity are respected, their safety is guaranteed and their well-being is the top priority. We never cut corners on security—because when it comes to the lives of those in our care, every detail matters.
The Locknet Upgrade: Strengthening the Sanctuary for Years to Come
Not all doors are created equal, and our doors endure constant use, exposure to the elements, and the clever curiosity of our residents. That’s why our long-standing partnership with Locknet has been invaluable. Their Grade 1 steel security doors and hardware are built for durability, making them the perfect choice for our high-security needs.
While our previous doors were still functional and safe, the wear and tear of over 25 years of daily use meant it was time to act before they became a potential weak point. Thanks to Locknet’s generous donation of five new high-security doors, we were able to proactively reinforce the sanctuary.
These new doors are more than just safety features—they are a testament to our commitment to proactive security, continuous improvement, and providing the best possible care for the primates.
Above, Maintenance Specialist John Burnside installs the new security door on the back side of the chimps’ play room. Below, he paints the new security door on the front side of the chimps’ play room.
