Commercial Tips
One of the most important factors when running a business or owning a property is to make sure that it is secure. If you haven’t taken the right steps to keep intruders out, fires at bay and staff safe, then you might be leaving your business open to the elements. We are going to be sharing our top tips throughout August on how you can improve the security of your premises, your assets and your people.
- Risk Assessment – First and foremost if you want to improve your security, you should identify any weak points there may be in your business. Seek local advice and news to see what is happening in your area to help identify the areas of your security that could be improved. Consult with staff about anything that can be improved to the current access, intruder and fire set-up.
- Strengthen entry points – There may be several ways of getting into your property that need improved security. Consider possible avenues that intruders might use to enter your premises and react accordingly. Installing doors and windows of solid construction and fitting them with secure locks is one of the options, while making sure they are shut and locked when the building is empty is imperative. Consider whether shutters or grills could be installed, although you might need planning permission from your local council.
- Secure the perimeter – Externally there are many ways to keep your property safe. If a burglar sees that your business is well guarded, it may deter them from attempting to enter. Relevant fencing, security lighting and a secure car park can help to prevent someone from entering your property. However, be careful not to put off clients and potential employees by making your premises look like Fort Knox!
- Install CCTV and alarms – CCTV is a must have for anyone looking to protect their business. Not only will it put people off attempting to break-in, but if they do, it can aid in identifying the culprit. Also think about the type of alarm system that the size of your building needs and change the codes on a regular basis.
- Consider using remote monitoring services – Keeping an eye on your premises 24/7 is asking a lot and is probably not realistic. Monitoring stations provide real-time support for all types of systems; Fire, CCTV and Intruder. Having someone raise the alarm in the very early stages of a fire or attempted break-in, can make a world of difference to the outcome.
- Know your staff and visitors – Without going all Big Brother on your workplace, try to make sure your business is safe from visitors to your building and also your own staff. Background checks can help to prevent employee theft and a signing in and out system or visitor passes mean you can keep track of everyone who comes in and out of your premises.
- Safeguard important equipment – Laptops, tablets and devices can be easily stolen if they are left lying about, so keep them in a secure location that is out of sight. Anything involving money or important IT equipment also needs to be locked away securely. If necessary, fit your computers with alarms to detect tampering and record serial numbers.
- Stop information theft – To protect sensitive information, including client’s financial records and employee details, use access controls on computers to restrict entry. Regularly review who has access ‘privileges’ and change passwords regularly. Ensure your IT systems are also adequately protected from external threats by installing firewalls and anti-virus software.
- Protect your business online – It is not just physical security that you need to be aware of. Cyber-crime is on the rise and businesses need to ensure their computer systems are well protected. Invest in quality anti-virus and firewall technology, as well as asking your staff to choose strong passwords. Regularly backup systems and files so that you can restore anything that is lost or delete.
- Advertise your security – Making it obvious that your building is well secured could deter potential intruders. Displaying the fact you have CCTV and alarms could make someone think twice about attempting to break-in.
- Conduct regular checks – Any faults in your security need to be repaired as soon as possible. Repair any breakages to doors, windows, or the roof and provide reminders to staff of safety procedures and reports of potential threats. Keep in contact with other local businesses to find out if they have had any break-ins or security breaches.
- Prepare for the worst – Don’t leave yourself open to an attack and the subsequent damages. Conduct detailed inventories to keep track of equipment and take pictures of your assets. If you do suffer a break-in, act quickly and contact the relevant parties. If you need to reconsider your security after a break-in, do not do the same thing as before, as the thieves now know your systems and the equipment you will be replacing.
Please feel free to contact us with any commercial or residential security requirements.
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