5 Business Security Measures to Take for Your Location
Following proper business security measures is crucial in avoiding break-ins that can lead to property damage and loss of goods. In addition, having a security strategy in place can decrease simple shoplifting and petty theft. Reducing instances of crime can also help you increase revenue for your business.
As a busy business owner, it may be challenging to devote time and resources to building robust security protocols. If you aren’t confident in your current security plan, review this list of business security measures for your physical location.
The Top 5 Business Security Measures to Take:
Measure #1: Invest in a Building Security System
Small business security systems that protect your establishment are essential. There are many security features to choose from, such as:
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Automatic door alarms: Installing automatic door alarms is a necessary line of defense. When your business location is closed, these alarms will immediately sound if someone tries to enter the premises.
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Motion sensors: Installing motion sensors will help you ensure that no one is in the building during off-hours.
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Professionally installed surveillance cameras: If you hire a security company to monitor your location, they will install cameras around the property. In some cases, they may offer professional monitoring and will alert you if they notice anything out of the ordinary. Although 24/7 monitoring might not be necessary, you may feel better if you know that professionals watch over your business.
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Security guards: If your business handles sensitive personal information or expensive goods, you may consider hiring security guards. If you have trained guards on the premises, this could deter individuals from gaining access to valuable objects or information.
However, the best type of system will work well for your business’s specific needs. Most alarm providers will be happy to meet with you to discuss plan options. Usually, they’ll conduct site visits so that they understand the layout of your location. These meetings take time, but they can benefit your decision process. The security company often points out weaknesses in existing systems or sees areas where extra security is needed. Many business owners avoid working with a security company due to the cost. However, this shouldn’t be an area you cut costs on; it can lead to severe issues.
If you cannot afford a security system, applying for a small business loan may be beneficial. That way, you’ll have the funds to secure your business’s physical location. You could use the loan to hire a security team, pay for employee training, or upgrade your existing data security measures.
Measure #2: Provide Employee Education & Training
Employees, vendors, and contractors must receive thorough training on business security measures, such as:
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Opening and closing your location
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Handling money and inventory
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Designating a point-of-contact for reporting suspicious behaviors
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Operating security equipment or technology, if their job requires it.
Ultimately, training your employees on security matters will help keep people and inventory secure. This training should be mandatory for anyone that works at your business location. To ensure that your employees understand protocols, you might require that they re-take the courses quarterly. In addition, it might be beneficial to have them take a test to prove their understanding of the information.
Measure #3: Perform Frequent Security Audits
Many business owners overlook the importance of performing frequent security audits. However, without conducting security audits, you may miss crucial issues that could lead to security breaches.
Like financial audits, a security audit allows your security company to assess the safety of your property. They’ll review your business’s physical security during their audit, including alarm systems, cameras, and company protocols. If the security team finds any concerns, they’ll recommend changes to correct the situation.
By performing security audits regularly, you’ll be aware of possible threats and receive suggestions on how to be safe moving forward.
Measure #4: Stay Up to Date on Maintenance
You might not realize it, but maintaining your business location can deter crime. If people see your business’s well-preserved location, they’ll know it will be more difficult to break in.
Make sure that you handle the following maintenance tasks promptly:
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Change light bulbs
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Repair broken light fixtures
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Fix door locks as soon as they break
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Trim plants that obstruct security cameras and other views
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Replace broken windows or other potential points of entry immediately
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Ensure that security camera signs are placed near the premises to deter crime
These simple tasks can help contribute to your goal of creating a safe business location.
Measure #5: Implement Strong Communication Strategies
Lastly, consider creating a strategy that encourages accessible and prompt communication between you, your staff, and the security company. Your team should have access to control systems and know whom to contact in the event of a security issue.
Security information should be included in training courses and other company documents. Review the communication plan with your team often, and ask for feedback.
If you have a front reception area, the attendant should be able to interact with back-office staff quickly. You could install a contact button on their desk to allow for this.
Training your employees to comply with security strategies will lessen the likelihood of an issue.
Conclusion: Make Your Small Business’s Security a Priority
Protecting your physical business location isn't always easy, but it's a necessary activity that you shouldn't neglect. By implementing these physical security measures, you’ll be better equipped to handle physical security breaches and other challenges. Having this peace of mind will allow you to focus on running your business, knowing that your physical location is safe.