5 video surveillance security tips for businesses
With all the focus on cybersecurity threats these days, it is understandable that some businesses overlook their physical security needs. However, proper video surveillance is essential for keeping your assets and your business safe.
Here are some useful tips on how to use video surveillance to protect your business.
Why is video surveillance important?
In the context of increasing cybersecurity threats, it is understandable that many businesses tend to focus on protecting their digital assets and overlook their physical assets. However, physical security is equally important and should also be given emphasis.
In 2020, the threat of theft, break-ins, policy violations, and legal battles is very real for businesses of all sizes. You likely have a large number of valuable assets on site, such as servers, computers, phones, and, of course, your employees. Physical security solutions, and in particular video surveillance, are critical for protecting your business from these threats.
The benefits of video surveillance
One key advantage of physical security systems such as video surveillance is that they prevent your assets from being stolen and other crimes from occurring on your premises. Simply having a video surveillance system on site will deter criminals. According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics, crimes related to commercial properties continue and in the event that a crime does occur, you will be able to assist the police to catch the perpetrators if you have a video recording.
Video surveillance can prevent internal issues too. Video cameras allow you to monitor staff members, making sure they follow policies, are productive, and that there are no incidents of employee fraud or theft. Finally, video surveillance is one of the most affordable and cost-effective security solutions available.
Top video surveillance security tips
To make sure you get the maximum benefits from your video surveillance system, it is important to follow these tips:
Place cameras where they are safe
In order for video surveillance equipment to be effective, it needs to be immune to tampering or damage. Cameras and other equipment, therefore, must be placed out of reach or in inaccessible locations, so criminals cannot disable them. Generally, cameras should be installed eight to ten feet off the ground.
Cover the most important areas of your site
When installing a video surveillance system you want to cover as many areas of your site as possible. Priority areas should include all access points: not only the main entrances but also back alleys, rear entrances, and loading docks. A camera also can be used to help with access control, letting you see who is at the door before you buzz them in. Parking areas should also be covered in order to protect the safety of your employees and visitors, as well as their vehicles.
Make sure you cover stock rooms
In installing cameras to cover all important areas, make sure you don’t overlook your stock rooms. Whether you have a large stock area for a retail store, food stores for a hospitality business, or just an office supply closet, stock losses can represent a huge expense. It is therefore important that you monitor the assets in your stock room with video surveillance.
Consider visible and hidden surveillance equipment
You may decide to install either visible or hidden cameras. There are advantages to both. The visible cameras will act as a deterrent to burglars while the hidden security cameras are more likely to record any attempted break-ins. They can also be useful for discrete monitoring, for example, to catch internal issues or problems.
Keep your equipment in good condition
Video surveillance equipment should be appropriately looked after so that it serves you well over the long term. Make sure that cameras are protected from external elements such as heavy rain. Cameras should also be periodically cleaned and checked to ensure the equipment is still working well.
Act Now
Effective video surveillance can protect your business from a range of risks. Installing a video surveillance system in the key areas of your site and keeping the equipment protected and well-maintained will go a long way to keeping your assets safe.
