Crime costs businesses in the United Kingdom (UK) millions of pounds every year. Whether the crimes are shoplifting, burglary, vandalism or even employee theft, organizations of all sizes and in all industries can be targeted by criminals.
Ensuring that business premises are safe and secure should, therefore, be a top priority for all business owners. Making sure all equipment, resources and other assets, as well as all the staff are safe, is something that cannot be ignored.
Ensuring business premises are safe and secure
Although every building is different and the requirements of each business may vary, there are some measures that every building needs to consider, when it comes to its security.
APE Fire & Security offers top 7 safety tips that all buildings can benefit from:
- Consider Access Control
Access control systems enable building operators to control and monitor who has access to the building
Access control systems enable building operators to control and monitor who has access to the building and when. Replacing the traditional method of a lock and key, common forms of access control include biometrics, key fobs and voice recognition.
Not only can operators see which members of staff have accessed which rooms, but they can also easily update or change employees’ permissions. Properties with small teams are likely to only require a basic access control system, whereas a large commercial building may need more complex integrations and features.
- Good Locks are Essential
Even if an access control system is out of the price range, it is absolutely essential to invest in high-quality, sturdy locks. Every point of entry needs to be as secure as possible, if it hasn’t already been considered to add anti-snap locks or deadbolts to the exterior doors.
It’s not just the doors though as building operators also need to ensure that all windows are fitted with proper locks. From pin locks and keyed locks to hinged wedge locks and sash locks, there are a variety of locks out there specifically designed to enhance window security.
- Importance of Lights
One of the most effective ways to deter criminals from targeting the building is to install security lighting on the outside of the premises. It makes potential burglars feel vulnerable, as they’re much more likely to be noticed, if they approach the building. Different types of security lighting are available, but the most popular type is passive infrared, which is activated when any movement is detected.
It can also be a good idea to keep interior lights on a timer so that it appears as if staff are present in the building, when it is, in fact, vacant, thus putting off criminals from targeting the building.
- Fit a Monitored Intruder Alarm System
A monitored intruder alarm system is simply a must-have for businesses of all sizes. Monitored externally and 24/7 by a professional and dedicated response team, the alarms trigger an instant response, meaning that even if an intruder does gain access to the premises, the building’s response team will be alerted in the shortest possible time. This largely reduces the risk of a burglar having the opportunity to locate the company’s most valued possessions.
It also provides peace of mind that the premises are being looked after, even when staff is not physically present.
- Install CCTV Cameras
CCTV has become a necessity for organizations to ensure they can spot unwelcomed visitors and track potential threats to the building. CCTV and IP CCTV systems can be suited to any budget and come with a range of advanced features, in order to help create tailored surveillance for the building premises.
It can also be accessed and managed remotely by security personnel, thereby allowing monitoring and analyzing of surveillance footage, irrespective of wherever they are.
- Store Important Documents & Files in Safes
Losing any confidential and important files can be catastrophic for a business. It’s, therefore, critical that all sensitive documents are kept and stored in a locked safe. There should also be backed up digital copies on an off-site hard drive, so that if the worst happens and they do get lost, they can still be accessed.
- Install Fire Alarms
Fire alarms are extremely important in helping create safe buildings for people to work and visit. If working in an office, for example, the amount of electrical equipment presents a serious fire risk. Early detection systems give a better chance of limiting any damage caused and reduce the risk to anyone inside the building.
A wide range of fire alarms are available, such as heat detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and flame detectors, so it’s about choosing which type(s) is right for a business.
Building Safety with APE Fire & Security
APE Fire & Security have a professional and trusted team of experts, specializing in helping businesses to protect their building and premises. They are NSI gold accredited to the highest standards and can offer bespoke safety measure recommendations, based on any specific requirements and the layout of the building.
From CCTV and intruder alarms to access control systems and fire alarms, APE Fire & Security have the solutions for all businesses.
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- Network / IP
- Biometrics
- Remote surveillance
- Office surveillance
- Digital video surveillance
- Remote video surveillance
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- Remote security
- Mall security
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- Security installation
- Security cameras
- Covert cameras
- Security camera systems
- Security monitoring system
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- Voice recognition systems
- Asset tracking
- Remote video monitoring
- Electronic door locks
- Electronic access control
- Intrusion detection
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- Security training
- Wireless security
- Network cameras
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- Security software
- IP Surveillance
- Security service
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- Outdoor video surveillance
- Physical Security Information Management (PSIM)
- Indoor surveillance
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- Security communication
- Integration software
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- Mobile communications
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Corporate Security
- Fire Safety
- Outdoor Security
- Indoor Security
- Fingerprint Locks
- Warning Devices
- Intruder Lights
- Incident Management
- Security Assessments
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Mobile access
- Video surveillance
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Machine Learning
- Touchless Security
