A Guide to Security Systems For Your Business
Security is a number one priority for any business, whether you’re a small independent store or a large corporation. Your security requirements will depend on the individual business; you might want to protect stock from thieves, or there may be areas of the building with sensitive information that should only be accessed by senior staff.
There are many different types of security systems on the market, but which one is right for your business? If you want to know more about the different security systems available and how they work, read on for our handy guide to help you choose the right system for you.
CCTV
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a crucial component of any security system. CCTV helps to deter thieves and intruders, as well as capturing any security breaches on camera. CCTV has been proven to help reduce crimes, making it essential for businesses of all sizes; the only difference will be the number of cameras you need.
Cameras should be installed to cover areas including all entrances and exits, walkways and any areas where valuable equipment or sensitive information is kept. Ideally, your CCTV should cover every area of your business with no blind spots. If a crime does occur, CCTV footage provides solid evidence that can help recover any missing items or catch the perpetrators responsible.
CCTV systems are highly sophisticated nowadays, and many include audio recording, night vision and high definition images as standard. Most modern systems also allow you to monitor the footage from your tablet or smartphone, so you can keep an eye on your business even if you’re not on the premises.
Access control
Access control systems are incredibly flexible and can be used to protect your business in a number of different ways. They can be customised to suit your exact security needs; whether you want to restrict access to the public, or if you need to keep certain areas exclusive to senior staff members.
Access control systems have become increasingly sophisticated and streamlined, and there’s no need for staff to carry around a huge bunch of keys. Instead, they rely on keycards, fobs or a keypad to control who has access to which areas. Access controls are particularly useful for larger buildings or businesses with several different departments. They’re also a good idea for office buildings or any business where there are large amounts of clients or visitors coming and going.
Access control systems are easily managed using online software, allowing businesses to alter access requirements as and when they’re needed. You can choose to install a full wired system, or there are revolutionary wire-free systems for the ultimate convenience. These access door controls feature a battery-powered, stand-alone unit that can simply be installed on any door of your choosing. They allow businesses to upgrade the security of a door in an easy, cost-effective way and they’re particularly popular in schools and medical facilities.
Master key systems
Master key systems offer a good balance between maintaining security and offering ease of access to staff. An organised and customised master key system allows businesses to create a set of individual locks to provide varying levels of access for individual key holders. For example, a master key can be cut to open all locks, while other keys can be cut to open selected locks only.
This allows business owners to tailor who has access to different areas of the premises while also allowing owners or managers to have full access at all times. Master key systems also allow you to streamline operations as individuals only need one key. This means there’s no need to be weighed down by a heavy bunch or spend time searching for the key that fits each lock!
Alarm systems
Alarms are another crucial component of your business security system and they’re often combined with CCTV cameras. Alarms give businesses peace of mind that their premises are protected after hours and they often work as a visual deterrent for intruders.
Many alarm systems can be linked to your smartphone or tablet, or they can send an alert to the local police station or your chosen security company if there is a breach. An efficient alarm system allows local authorities to act quickly in the event of a break in and systems can be zoned to suit your individual security needs.
Security lighting
Don’t underestimate the importance of lighting – it can make all the difference when it comes to improving your business security. The majority of opportune thieves rely on the cover of darkness and a sudden bright light can be all it takes to put them off. Well-lit areas aren’t attractive to intruders and it increases the chance of them being identified on CCTV.
Motion-activated lights are very popular and you won’t waste any unnecessary expense on electricity bills. Install security lighting above key entry and exit points and consider adding motion-activated lights to areas like stockrooms to ensure the building is fully protected.
Biometrics
Biometric security systems scan a unique physical characteristic, such as a fingerprint or eye scan. This provides an extremely high level of security and businesses don’t have to worry about a keycard or fob falling into the wrong hands.
These sophisticated security systems are very advanced but they can be costly for a business. It’s unlikely that you’d find biometric systems throughout a whole building but they’re very useful if you have particularly valuable equipment or sensitive information to protect.
Security shutters
The external security of your building is the first point of defence; if thieves can’t physically get into the building, they won’t be able to take any valuables! Security shutters are a common security measure for retail businesses, especially if the building has a glass front. Shutters don’t just deter thieves either, they also add another level of protection against vandalism or graffiti.
Security shutters are very easy to use once installed; simply pull down the grilles and lock them at the end of the day. Don’t be put off by aesthetics either; shutters come in a wide variety of materials and colours to match the existing look of your business.
Safes
If you have any particularly valuable documents or items (such as jewellery), you may want to consider installing a safe on your business premises. Safes don’t just protect valuables from thieves, they also provide protection from flood or fire damage. Safes come in a wide variety of models to suit your needs, including digital lock safes, key safes and fireproof models. They can also be freestanding, or installed in a wall or floor for your convenience.
Safes are extremely durable and have a high ability to withstand any forced entry. Fireproof safes can also withstand the heat of flames for around one to two hours, which gives plenty of time for fire services to control the blaze.
Improve your business security with systems from Campbell & McGovern
If you’re looking for superior security systems for your business, get in touch with the experts at Campbell & McGovern. We’re proud to provide a range of effective and affordable security solutions, including CCTV systems, access control, master key systems, uPVC door and window security, and more. Our friendly and professional staff can advise you on which system would be the most suitable and we also provide a 24/7 locksmith service in case of emergency.
If you have valuables that need protecting, consider our range of fireproof safes, suitable for both domestic and commercial use. For more information about our security systems or to find out how we can help protect your business, give us a call today or contact us online.
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