10 steps to increase the security of your commercial property
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, you might be leaving your business open to an attack. Here are some steps you can take to improve the security of your premises.
1) Risk Assessment – First and foremost if you want to improve your security, you have to identify any weak points there may be in your business. Consult with staff about anything that can be improved and seek local advice and news to see what is happening in your area. This will help you to identify the areas of your security that could be improved.
2) 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.
3) 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 a prison!
4) 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.
5) 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.
6) 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.
7) 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 deleted.
8) 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.
9) 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.
10) 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.
What do you think is the biggest threat your business and how do you combat it? Leave a comment below and let us know.
Want more advice for business owners? Read our guide to choosing a business broadband provider and our look at the pros and cons of buying or leasing commercial property.
[…] 10 ways to increase the security of your property […]