If you’ve got your own business premises, you need to ensure you’re going everything you can to secure it. Despite most people being decent, there will always be those who take advantage of opportunities to commit a crime such as theft or vandalism. Commercial properties don’t come cheap, and they are a direct representation of your brand. This means you need to make sure your business security is bulletproof. If not, you risk costly damages, loss of goods, and even loss of earnings.
If you’re wondering how you can secure your premises and protect them from crime (according to GOV.uk) in a cost-effective manner, we’ve put together the top business security measures you can implement, no matter your premises size or budget.
Security Cameras
The first and arguably cheapest method of security comes in the form of cameras. This should be the most immediate thing you look to do, no matter if your budget is big or small. When buying a security camera system, you need to think carefully about the number of cameras you need. This means you need to identify key areas that need coverage. We’d recommend above every door and window, as well as a general camera that overlooks as much of the interior as possible. If you have a store, cameras down each aisle are ideal.
There are lots of types of security cameras, but we suggest you buy high-quality ones that are HD with sound recording if possible. If an incident occurs, it will be easier to identify the person responsible if the images are crystal clear. In addition, try and find a system that records and saves footage online rather than on physical tapes so that it can’t be destroyed.
Manned Guarding
Manned guards aren’t just for show and event security (click here for more information) – they can be extremely useful in ordinary commercial settings such as offices and stores, too. No matter if your business sells high-value or low-value goods, you can always make use of a security guard. They will be professionally trained to deal with incidents as and when they occur, taking the pressure off your staff and ensuring incidents are resolved quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption.
Even just their presence can be an effective deterrent against opportunist criminals, especially when paired with other security measures like cameras. When choosing a security guard, make sure you choose someone who has all the relevant qualifications and who will fit in with your wider team. You also need to be looking for customer service skills as they will often be the first port of call for customers with queries.
Security Alarms
The third way you can secure your business is through the use of security alarms. These come in various forms, including door alarms which send an alert when a door is opened and it shouldn’t be. They’re commonly found on fire escapes and emergency doors, but they can also be installed on front and back doors. You’ve been surprised at the number of criminals who enter premises through the door when no one is there. If they do so an alarm goes off, they’re far less likely to proceed any further because of the chance of getting caught.
When choosing an alarm (see security.org for more information), it’s best to choose one that sends alerts to a professional security company. If not, you or your staff will get notifications at all hours and be expected to check them out. This could be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.
Windows and Doors
The very first thing you want to do after putting up your security routine is doing a review of your site’s most susceptible points. This covers all entry points, as even the most inexperienced of burglars may make quick work of a rusted door or window.
If any of your windows or doors are broken or appear to be insecure, have them replaced as soon as possible.
If you keep sensitive information or particularly valuable goods on your premises, you might want to consider replacing your ordinary doors and windows with high-security alternatives.
Wall or Fence
Make sure your external border, such as a wall or fence, is enough. Consider adding barbed wire to your wall or fence to take it a step further.
Keep any ladders, tools, or wheelie bins out of sight; this makes it more difficult for would-be burglars to gain access to your home.
In a densely populated area? Passers-by will be notified to anyone attempting to break in by lighting any entryways with motion-detection lights.
Security Protocols
Access to your company’s premises should be restricted. In an office setting, for example, this is frequently accomplished through a sign-in procedure. Many offices have speed gates or turnstiles that allow only authorized personnel to enter and exit.
Request that your staff wear identification while on the premises of your company, and interrogate anyone who does not appear to be doing so.
Also, who is in charge of securing the premises at the end of the day? Do you have one or more employees who have access to your company’s premises?
It’s possible that you’ll need to hire additional staff to help keep your business safe, such as security guards or a receptionist at the main entrance.
Summary
These are just some of the security actions you can implement to protect your business premises. Ideally, a combination of all of them is best, but even just one or two of these is a good place to start.
Nevertheless, even if you take all the necessary precautions, you may still become a victim of theft. Should your business premises be targeted, you could be able to minimize any losses by creating and maintaining an inventory, reporting a matter to the police and your insurance provider as soon as possible, and remembering that criminals may return after the incident, so you should revisit your security measures.
