Spring clean your security systems - Part 2: Business Security

There are many things to consider when looking at business security, but it is important to review and update your systems regularly.  

Risk Assessment
The best way to start a review of your security systems is to conduct a risk assessment.  Identify all the potential hazards, anything you’ve had problems with over the last 12 months and update your processes. If you’re unsure where to start contact a professional security company for advice.

Crime varies a lot by location, not just the amount of crime but the type as well.  Take a look at the Police crime statistics to see what’s been happening in your neighbourhood and tailor your security provisions accordingly.

Do you work with other local businesses?  Sharing information can benefit all parties and help to prevent criminal activity.  There are many voluntary organisations, such as Pubwatch, set up to support businesses in a particular sector.

Security Equipment
At the most basic level this includes locks for windows and doors.  Check they all work, that the keys are stored securely and all are accounted for.

Many companies use CCTV cameras to protect their properties and their staff, but if you do use them are they monitored or simply recording as a back-up, to provide evidence if needed?  Both can be useful, but it’s important to consider which option best suits your needs.  However you use the cameras make sure you have warning signs up, these can also provide an effective deterrent.

When were your alarm systems last checked? These should be tested on a regular basis and most need servicing annually.

Who is responsible for responding when an alarm goes off in the middle of the night?  A lot of companies have a nominated member of staff, but is that really the best (and safest) option?  Take a look at professional alarm response options, you might find them better value than you think.
 
Update and change your alarm codes and passwords.

Fire
Check your building’s smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.  They don’t last forever and will need to be replaced at regular intervals.

Do your staff know your company fire procedures?  How often do you do an evacuation test?  And what about your fire wardens, do they need any refresher training?

Inside the buildings
Keeping the inside of your premises clean and tidy is important for security and safety.  Doorways and exits need to be clear in case of fire.

Where do you keep equipment and stock?  When did you last do a stock audit?  If you don’t have a complete view of these then it’s easy for things to be stolen without you knowing.  Check your procedures for removing or adding stock and who has access.

How do you store data; hard copies and digital?  Sensitive information needs to be handled properly and financial records kept for seven years.  It’s also important to keep a back-up off site somewhere secure.

Outside your premises
Keep the areas surrounding your premises clear and tidy.  Check the gates lock, CCTV cameras cover the right areas, hedges and trees are trimmed, just make it as difficult as possible for anyone to get inside unseen.

Clean any graffiti that appears, it will only encourage more if you leave it.

If you have parking areas, check these are secure and that vehicles aren’t being broken into or stolen from your property.

How do you deal with visitors, deliveries or contractors?  Are they signed in and out?  Are they allowed to wander around the building unaccompanied?  Depending on the size of your building and type of business it is important to have a proper plan in place.

Staff
There are two sides to this; keeping your employees safe and reducing any internal theft.  Make sure you have carried out the necessary pre-employment screening and that staff are fully trained.  If you have staff who work alone, either at the premises or offsite, check your procedures are sufficient to minimise any risks.

Emergency Plan
All companies should have a business continuity plan in place; what would you do if there was a fire/flood/IT system failure/terrorist attack? Check your plan is up to date and test it regularly, you never know when you might need it.

If you’re looking for extra security for your business, get in touch today for a free, no obligation quote.

Did you miss Part 1: Home Security?  Take a look now.