Security Steps that all Businesses should Take
Nothing disrupts business quite like a break-in or a fire. While it may not be an immediate financial issue, so long as correct insurance cover is in place, the impact can have serious negative consequences.
With the potential for immeasurable loss or damage of equipment, stock, furniture, access points and more, operations could be halted for a considerable amount of time. This could mean a significant loss of business in some cases, with months or years of hard work undone by a single incident.
There are steps that all organisations can and should take to provide even a basic level of security against theft or fire, and the ongoing success of businesses often depends on whether these simple precautionary measures are in place or not.
Security Against Burglary
Alarms
After simply keeping the door locked, the most fundamental level of security against intruders is ensuring that an appropriate alarm system is in place. With the range and capabilities of the technology within alarm systems available today, finding one to suit the needs of your business premises is simply a case of speaking to professional security experts. Whether a wireless alarm that can be programmed to fit around your opening times, or a monitored alarm that allows external monitoring of the cause of a triggered alarm (with a key holder or the police contacted accordingly), having a system installed also provides a visible and audible deterrent for potential intruders.
CCTV
Closed circuit television is not only useful in the fight against burglary, but also an effective tool in the detection and prevention of violence against staff, members of the public and equipment on the premises. With analogue and IP cameras available, allowing for digital storage of images, an expert security provider should have no trouble designing and installing a CCTV system that suits your property.
Access Systems
Controlling who can go where on your business premises, particularly if there are areas containing sensitive equipment or information, is a great way to combat the threat of theft – even from within your own workforce. Access control and door entry systems can be setup to allow separate keycard access for different entrances, simultaneously providing a useful way to monitor who was where, and when, should an incident occur.
Security Against Fire
Not only is fire detection and suppression equipment vital for upholding safety on your premises, it is also a legal requirement that it is installed and maintained to the necessary standards.
Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting and safety signage are all necessary, with fire safety professionals required to select the correct system for your premises.
Fire extinguisher types must be suited to the environment, with different extinguishing agents needed for different flammable fuels – e.g. Class A fires caused by wood, paper and other burning solids require the use of a water extinguisher; Class B fires caused by flammable liquids, such as oil and petrol, require the use of a dry powder, foam or CO2 extinguisher.
Basic Considerations
Ensure that you install a high quality deadbolt or electronic locking system that is less vulnerable to being forced or picked, and that locking it is an automated process to avoid negligence.
As with basic home security, it’s simple common sense to keep any valuable items out of sight of passers-by, including all expensive equipment, stock and vehicles.
Protecting your business from the threat of a break-in or fire is vital for ensuring the safety of your staff, visitors and possessions. AAI Security Systems are the leading providers of burglar alarm and fire alarm systems across London and the South East. Our fully accredited experts are on hand to tailor a system to the exact needs of your business premises. Get in touch today or browse the site to find out more.