How to Maximise Security Cameras for Your Business
28th September 2019
Security cameras are a valuable deterrent to damage and break-ins.
For many, these systems are now integral parts of smart homes for comprehensive property surveillance. But what about protection for your business?
Theft, shoplifting, vandalism, fraud, and assault are significant crimes that cost UK business owners dearly each year. Fortunately, video surveillance can deter criminal activities, offer extra security, and provide invaluable evidence for police assistance.
To burglar-proof your business and safeguard the premises, its contents, staff, and customers, invest in a security camera system and maximise security and safety with these tips.
Do You Have the Right Systems in Place?
Many UK businesses don’t have sufficient security measures.
The rise in employee theft underscores this issue, with staff being responsible for a significant proportion of theft and fraud. Security cameras are ideal for monitoring employees as they remind staff there’s a system in place to prevent theft.
Business surveillance and security cameras are also crucial for creating a safer workplace. Criminals will often avoid break-ins if they’re likely to attract attention. Options such as cameras, alarm systems, and motion detection lighting are effective deterrents.
Criteria Check
Choose suitable security cameras designed for their intended purpose. Don’t get caught up in cameras with pan tilt zooms if you only need to monitor a small storage room.
Consider:
- How many cameras you’ll need
- Indoor vs outdoor
- Wireless vs wired
- Motion sensor activation vs 24/7 recording
- Video quality
- Storage and footage resolution
- Security camera design features – read our buyer’s guide for more information
- Monitoring and camera feed access
Install in Smart Locations
For optimal use, your security cameras must be placed in strategic locations.
First, determine the problem(s) you want to solve. For increasing safety and security, installing cameras in secluded areas (car parks, back alleys) and entrance/exit points can offer protection and provide evidence in the event of a crime. Visitors, invited or not, are made aware they’re being observed upon arrival at your business.
To reduce or monitor theft and stock control, position cameras in warehouses, office supply or storerooms, shop fronts or reception areas, loading docks, and cash-handling areas.
Tip: Remember to consider local privacy requirements if you implement video surveillance in your workplace. Ensure compliance with UK privacy and surveillance laws.
Increase Surveillance with Lighting
Areas under surveillance should have consistent and sufficient lighting for cameras to pick up details. Additionally, invest in high-quality night vision features.
Consider sensor lighting which activates upon movement and keep parking spaces and other secluded areas well-lit.
Eliminate Hiding or Climbing Areas
Integrate landscaping with your security plan.
By keeping trees and bushes trimmed, you eliminate potential hiding spots or climbing opportunities for criminals. Maintain the ones that matter – climbable trees near security cameras and shrubs or trees near doors and windows. Look for opportunities to reduce concealment and increase visibility around your business.
Tip: This may include moving climbable objects such as bins and boxes.
Post Warning Signs in Strategic Positions
Inform criminals the area is under surveillance.
Maximise security cameras by positioning warning signs around your business to warn of surveillance.
Burglars usually think twice before breaking into a business when they see security cameras. Likewise, staff are less likely to steal if they know risk areas are being monitored.
If you own a business, it’s crucial you have the right security cameras and plan in place. Contact us for more information on which system best suits your safety and security needs. Proudly shipped from our Manchester warehouse, all our products come with Free Expedited Shipping within the UK for orders over £29.
Fancy more security tips? Read the latest on our blog.
