Whether you run a small business or an international corporation, your physical property and materials and the staff who use them are valuable assets that you need to protect. A security system is no longer optional; it’s a requirement to save money and your reputation. In some cases, the right security may even save your company from an expensive mishap such as a data breach. That’s why we recommend that you implement the following security elements at your facility.
1. Video Surveillance
No matter the size of your facility, video surveillance is a must. Although there are plenty of affordable options on the market and some of them may work for smaller businesses, some businesses require something more. For example, you might need a higher-definition camera to survey your entire property. Consider storage, too. If you cannot access footage or have to frequently delete it, your system may not be serving you well.
2. Adequate Lighting
Even with infrared cameras, your facility needs adequate lighting. This ensures employees and guards can see who has access and makes would-be thieves or troublemakers twice about entering a well-lit facility. Your choice lies in always-on or motion-sensed lighting, the latter of which may be more affordable and less obtrusive. If using motion detectors, test them to ensure they’re sensitive enough to detect human motion but perhaps not so sensitive that animals trigger them.
3. Integration
Homeowners and businesses alike are discovering the drawbacks to security technology that integrates poorly or not at all. Integration ensures that you can access your video footage, intercoms, gate, telephone, and lighting controls from one control panel, whether it’s physical or virtual. The benefit of integrating everything into an app is the ability to access your security system from anywhere, even if you’re not on site.
4. Access Control
Access control can take several forms, whether it means scanning a badge or showing it to security personally to enter an area, biometric scans, or passwords and pins to prevent unauthorized users from seeing information on your computers and machinery. The right solution works now and can be scaled up in the future is necessary. Don’t forget virtual access control such as firewalls and secure accounts, too.
5. A Guard Shack
A guard shack isn’t just a place for guards to keep watch while protected from the elements. It’s a physical reminder to anyone who may want to cause trouble that your facility is protected and guards are paying attention. When placed at the entrance, the guard shack becomes part of access control to your business. It can also connect guards to your security system.
6. Insurance
Insurance may not seem like a security element at first, but it’s essential to protect your business from a variety of negative consequences. These can range from fires to natural disasters, burglary, financial risks, vehicle accidents, and data breaches. Adequate insurance will also include liability coverage that protects you should anyone, employee, partner, or customer, become hurt on or by your property. Beyond these immediate concerns, having comprehensive insurance can also provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on growing your business without constantly worrying about potential setbacks.
