It is impossible to remove the risk of theft and break-ins entirely. Still, there are many business security systems you can put in place to reduce the risk massively. Security measures such as CCTV monitoring systems and intruder alarms work as deterrents of crime, as well as enabling you to catch criminals in the act!
Unfortunately, business premises are a big target for intruders and thieves. Business premises often house expensive electrical equipment, cash, and personal data, so criminals view businesses as a good opportunity.
It is essential to determine the level of risk in your area, then speak to a professional security company to find out the best, tailored security solutions for your business.
Why you need good workplace security
This recent study shows the true extent of crimes committed to businesses in the UK. Researchers estimated that the retail sector reported a whopping 27,400 incidents per 1,000 premises!
Every business premise will hold expensive items such as computers and cash, and sensitive documents/data. Having suitable security measures protects from theft and can also keep insurance costs down.
Business premises of all kinds need protecting, whether a singular office or a massive business complex. Luckily, professional security companies provide tailored solutions depending on the premises needs.
Take these 10 steps to keep your business safe
1. Check your locks, and make sure they are used
You can opt for a professional security audit, or you can decide to assess your locks yourself. Checking your locks are secure is one of the most effective and cheapest ways to make your business premises secure.
All external doors need to be fitted with good quality locks, along with all windows. You should also add locks to internal doors, especially doors to offices or storerooms, anywhere with expensive equipment or confidential documents.
Inform your staff on the importance of locking doors and windows at the end of the day. Consider making somebody responsible for this, somebody you can trust!
2. Ensure 24/7 security is available
Business premises are more at risk of theft when they are closed, so you must make sure security measures are in place at all times. CCTV monitoring systems ensure premises are monitored 24/7, and alarm systems inform of intruders when properties are empty.
Alarm systems can be linked to your smartphone or even straight to emergency services. The faster action is taken, the less damage a criminal can cause on your premises.
3. Install a CCTV monitoring system
Not only are CCTV cameras effective deterrents of crime, but they can spot somebody trying to break into your property. If an intruder does break-in, you can take action. CCTV cameras also capture images of criminals, meaning you could identify the suspect and stop further crimes from occurring!
Remote CCTV monitoring systems are the best choice for business premises. With remote CCTV systems, cameras can send the footage directly to security personnel who are available 24/7 to monitor your premises.
4. Using lighting strategically
Studies have been conducted regarding the effectiveness of lighting systems to prevent crime. The results found that crime was reduced by an average of 21% in areas with improved street lighting, compared to other areas without lighting!
Install lighting around all entrances to your property and in corridors inside your property. Prioritise lighting outside rooms that house expensive equipment and stock!
5. Secure any expensive equipment
Tag all of your computers and keep a record of equipment serial numbers. By doing this, you can refer back to your records to check no equipment has been stolen. Large workplaces with a lot of appliances can quickly lose track. You can even consider bolting equipment to the floor; this way, it’s not going anywhere!
6. Keep important documents locked away
Workplaces that hold confidential information need to be careful; you should always lock away these documents in filing cabinets or cupboards. Workplaces also need to make sure they dispose of confidential data correctly.
Never, under any circumstances, leave documents with personal information lying around. A privacy breach could completely ruin your businesses reputation.
7. Install an access control system
Controlling who access your premises by using fobs or cards means you can decide who enters, where and when. You can restrict movement around your premises and keep tabs on who is inside your property.
Keep a record of who is in your building at all times, and ask guests to sign in and out. Therefore, if anything does go missing, you know who the suspects could be.
8. Place cash in a secure, high-quality safe
Always keep a record of how much money is being held within your workplace. Wherever possible, keep cash locked in a safe. You should choose a safe approved by The Association of Insurance Surveyors Ltd. Whatever you do, never leave cash lying around somewhere visible; this is an invitation for thieves!
9. Keep a close eye on stock
Whatever your business stocks, whether clothing or electrical equipment, keep a record and a close eye on numbers. This way, you can quickly identify any missing items early, stopping repeat offenders. Shockingly, 75% of workers admitted to stealing from their employees at least once! This statistic shows how important it is to have security measures inside, not just outside your property.
10. Stay vigilant and be prepared
Always take references for new employees to ensure you can trust your staff! As your business grows, you also need to monitor and assess your security measures. You could even consider manned guarding on your premises, meaning a trained professional is on-site to watch out for anything suspicious!
Ensure your staff are trained and aware of their security responsibilities, lock windows and doors, and make sure alarms are set.
Check alarms are regularly working with weekly fire alarm practices and annual fire drills. Look out for your neighbours, and they will look out for you! Think about teaming up with nearby premises to form a business watch.
Find out more about how to keep your business premises safe
Follow the above steps, and you are well on your way to ensuring your business premises are as safe as possible. To find out what else you can put in place, contact us at Stok K9 Security Services. Our highly trained, accredited, professional security team are here to protect your business from criminals.