You’ve worked too hard to build your business to risk leaving it unprotected when you’re not there. A quality security system will ensure your small business has round-the-clock monitoring and protection, providing valuable peace of mind that your assets and inventory is always safe and secure.
If you’re considering installing a security system to protect your small business, this guide provides an overview of everything you need to know.
Security Camera Types
Visual monitoring is an essential component of any small business security system and is usually the first thing small business owners consider installing.
There are a few options you can choose from when selecting security cameras, with each offering different benefits. The main types of security cameras include:
- Box and bullet cameras: Stand-alone CCTV cameras which focus on a fixed point of view. They can be installed indoors or outdoors and often work effectively in large-scale installations.
- Dome cameras: Discreet dome-shaped cameras which are tamper-proof and offer a wide viewing angle. Typically ceiling-mounted, they can be used either indoors and outdoors. Many models also have night vision, heat and motion-sensing capabilities.
- Pan, Tilt and Zoom (PTZ) cameras: Cameras which can be manoeuvred remotely to track movement or focus on areas of interest.
- IP cameras: Cameras which operate over a wireless network granting remote access from any location. They typically offer a high-resolution picture and wide field of vision.
Read our blog on selecting the right security camera for more useful information.
Security Systems
Most small businesses also choose to pair their security cameras with other functionality to provide a more comprehensive security solution.
Some of the additional capabilities you can add to your small security system include:
- an intrusion alarm
- door and window sensors
- motion sensors
- glass break sensors
- fire detection/temperature monitoring, and
- remote monitoring and alerts
Most security systems can be customised to your individual needs. At Calamity, we can advise on the most suitable security solution in line with your requirements and budget.
Security System Installation and Ongoing Maintenance
Installation requirements will vary between systems. While wired systems need a cabled connection to a Digital Video Recorder (DVR), wireless set-ups don’t require a cabled DVR connection but will still need to be connected to a power source.
If you purchase your security system from a quality supplier, they should be able to install the system for you to ensure optimal security coverage. They should also be able to assist with ongoing maintenance checks to ensure the system is working optimally.
Additional Considerations
In addition to installing a security system, there are a range of additional measures you can take to improve the security of your small business, including:
- Door entry systems: Each point of entry to your business premises needs to be secured to ensure only authorised persons can enter. Electronic entry systems including swipe card, pin entry and biometric entry systems are becoming increasingly popular options for many small businesses owners.
- Office locks and keys: In an office environment, it’s integral that you meet your privacy obligations by storing any customer details and important documentation securely. It’s important to consider your choice of locks and keys to ensure they cannot be easily breached.
- Security lighting/sensor lights: Intruders and vandals prefer to steer clear of well-lit areas. Installing security lighting and/or motion sensor lights around the business premises can also play a valuable role in protecting your business.
Contact Calamity to find out how our commercial security systems can protect your small business.
