The power of CCTV
CCTV is a powerful tool, but it’s essential to know how to use it properly. It might seem a simple security solution but there are, unfortunately, lots of hidden downfalls and loopholes which might leave your CCTV strategy somewhat out of kilter. Construction security is vital and by underestimating the complexity of the technology, you’re leaving yourself exposed to a variety of risks. Fortunately, help is at hand!
Here at Stok K9 Security Services, we have extensive knowledge on a wide range of security systems and preventative strategies. We’re experts in elite security and, as one the UK’s leading security services, have the experience to help you take the necessary steps to securing your construction site and utilise CCTV effectively.
Peace of mind
In an increasingly uncertain time, it’s understandable that you’d want peace of mind and reassurance that your business is secure and safe in all circumstances. In fact, there’s never been a better time to ensure your business has the utmost security to optimize growth and success in the future. Maybe you’re curious as to what CCTV measures you should be taking to protect your company? Or perhaps you have had some security issues and know that your current surveillance isn’t quite up to scratch? To help you better understand why you should invest in high quality CCTV, here are some examples of – and solutions to – common CCTV mistakes we’ve seen from industrial site owners, ourselves.
1. Error in judgement
At some point in life, we’ve all had a time when we’ve said “it won’t happen to me”, and then without promise, whatever it is, actually does happen to you. Surprisingly, many construction sites simply aren’t investing in CCTV security, in the first place. As a result of the global pandemic, commercial premises were adhering to the government guidelines of social distancing; unfortunately, it also meant that the more opportunistic thieves were taking their chances, especially when they knew police were already as stretched as they currently were. There were fewer workers on sites, so as a result, the chances of an attempted burglary being physically detected was greatly diminished. In a time where business growth is by no means guaranteed, you definitely don’t want to be forking out for brand-new equipment in the midst of a pandemic. Getting efficient, high-end security will always pay off in the long run.
2. Unreliable quality
CCTV is one of the most reliable forms of security, but only if it’s done right. If you’re going to invest in it, make sure it’s top-quality. The whole point of CCTV is to protect your workforce and business; failing to invest in HD security could be the mistake that’s leading your construction site astray. All too often, we‘ve seen industrial sites that have bought less than adequate remote surveillance systems and when things go wrong, they’ve unclear evidence to show for it. In the event that someone trespassed on your property, you want a reliable camera to pick up vital details, rather than blur or distort them in any way. We’ve also seen instances where CCTV cameras have stopped working, with no resolution. Instead, they were left simply as physical deterrents, leaving any unwanted circumstance to chance.
To keep your workplace safe, investigate the options available to you. Having the highest quality you can afford will serve you well. The quality must be clear, to the extent that you’d be able to identify a potential suspect. Details such as facial features or clothing become a fundamental part of any crime investigation and having the equipment to pick up this kind of definition is invaluable to your site’s safety. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Additionally, consider getting something fully weatherproof. Industrial locations can often be challenging to secure due to their very nature; dirt, dust, potentially dangerous chemicals and other potential hazards are always present. Test your CCTV video placements and locations until you feel assured; you know your site better than anyone else.
3. Specification of CCTV
An industrial site can be a busy place to work; with a high turnover of vehicles driving in and out of the facility, you never know when you may need to look at a vehicle more closely.
There have been reported occasions where thousands of pounds worth of industrial equipment have been taken from construction sites, and either the inadequacy of (or in some cases, the complete lack of) security cameras meant that basic key evidence, such as number plates, weren’t able to be checked or identified.
It’s fundamental that you have the correct surveillance for your site. Consider the versatility of ANPR cameras. These automatically read the number plate of the vehicles passing through and check them in a database of vehicles of interest with the DVSA. This can help target any vehicles to potentially stop check. It also detects any offences, including things like unlicensed operators. It’s always a good idea to know who has access to your site.
4. The importance of a reputable trader
Wherever you obtain your CCTV, it’s important that it comes from a trusted source. Make sure you look at supplier reviews; you want the process to be easy, with impeccable product and service guaranteed.
There have been instances where site owners, unfortunately, haven’t done their research and have invested in large quantities of poorly manufactured or faulty CCTV cameras. If surveillance isn’t your expertise, then don’t just go with the cheapest option. Look around, ask for some quotes and talk to traders and consumers alike to gain a consensus on the most effective CCTV security for your site.
Our surveillance
Here at Stok K9 Security Services, we design, install and maintain high specification CCTV. We work with cutting-edge technology from industry-leading suppliers to provide you with an effective remote CCTV services monitoring solution, that’s also cost-efficient. Your CCTV system is connected via the internet to a secure monitoring station, sending images from your CCTV cameras direct to our security personnel. The footage can be monitored 24/7 or during selected hours, often outside of normal business hours or when the property will be empty.
Our smart security systems inform security personnel in the event of an alarm being activated.
To provide the best view possible, cameras are then re-aligned, zoomed or an alternative viewpoint is selected. Using our state of the art software we draw digital barriers in and around your chosen areas which trigger immediate alerts to our control room. Each business is supplied with a 24 hour monitoring station for staff to use at your perusal. Our professional security personnel then manually monitor the CCTV footage, looking at recent footage as well as live footage to properly assess the situation. If a risk is identified by our Remote Monitoring centre, we react to manage the situation by either communicating directly with the intruders via an inbuilt tannoy system, informing you if required, contacting the emergency services and dispatching our 24 hour response team.
Contact us for cutting-edge CCTV security
Ultimately, it’s important to do your research, constantly evaluate your construction site security services and be aware that now more than ever, high quality CCTV is an invaluable investment to your business. A proactive approach to your security method is the best way to start.
If you would like to find out more about our industrial and construction security services, then get in touch! Contact Stok K9 Security Services today on 0800 002 5761 or email us via info@stokk9services.com.
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