Crime and vandalism are on the rise, and with a poor economic outlook forecast by the majority, it is likely that things will get worse before they get better meaning it is essential that businesses are prepared should the worst occur.
Regardless of whether you have been a victim of business crime in the past, or are looking to prepare for the future, the implementation of sufficient perimeter security is always a good investment and will benefit your business for years to come as long as it is maintained correctly.
What is perimeter security?
The simplest explanation of perimeter security is the use of security systems – such as security gates and barriers – to protect a given area. Perimeter security can encompass a range of different security systems including the afore mentioned security gates and barriers as well as turnstiles and traditional fencing.
What are the potential threats to your business’ security?
The current threats to your business will vary depending on the level of security you already have in place. However, each business, whilst different, all face some common threats which can be easily prevented if you can identify your vulnerable areas and secure them effectively.
- Building Entrances– the majority of businesses have a variety of different entry and exit points, and these are often the first places criminals would attempt to gain access to a building. Ensuring these are properly secure with a lock and key may not be enough and having additional access control security or perhaps CCTV monitoring can go a long way in securing your entrance points.
- Car Parks– a lot of businesses underestimate the importance of car park security despite the fact that car parks provide prime pickings for would-be criminals such as any personal belongings that are kept in vehicles and the vehicles themselves. The simplest methods of securing a car park to prevent these problems are through the use of security barriers and bollards.
- Perimeter Security– effective perimeter security is the first barrier to potential criminal activity that may impact your business and it is essential that this area is secure as without sufficient security methods in place criminals would have no problems entering your business premises. The simplest form of perimeter security is perhaps a strong security gate but it is recommended that additional security measures are implemented alongside. This may include barbed wire, an alarm system or CCTV in order to ensure that your perimeter is as secure as it can be.
Assessing the risks
One of the most important elements of perimeter security is assessing the risks posed to your business and identifying any external vulnerabilities you may have that leave you exposed to criminal activity.
Many businesses rely too heavily on one type of security system such as CCTV or alarm which can easily be circumnavigated or disabled and are unable to actually prevent criminal activity unlike perimeter security systems such as security barriers and gates.
Therefore, conducting an in-depth risk assessment is essential before making any decision regarding your perimeter security. View our guide to conducting a security risk assessment here.
What are your key options for perimeter security?
After conducting a security risk assessment, you should have an idea of the vulnerabilities in your business security and can, therefore, choose a perimeter security solution that matches your exact requirements.
When it comes to perimeter security there are 4 main options that you could consider, all with their own specific uses, these are:
Most of these perimeter security systems come in both manual and automatic variants making them ideal for a range of businesses across a number of different sectors.
It is essential to remember that some of these security solutions are better suited for smaller businesses that don’t have a lot of land to secure. If you have a larger premises it is recommended hat you consider at least 2 different perimeter security solutions to ensure your premises is secured effectively.
Vehicular Management
The final essential element of perimeter security you should consider is vehicular management and car park security. Fortunately, one of the main benefits of perimeter security systems such as automatic security barriers, is that they are ideal for controlling the flow of traffic in and out of a premises.
What mistakes do businesses make when securing their premises?
Not providing sufficient training
Often it has been the case that a business will have all the relevant security measures in place and will have done a good job ensuring that their business is safe and secure. However, simply installing a range of security systems isn’t enough to keep your business safe in the long term.
Ensuring that employees and managers are trained on the various security systems you have in place is vital. This not only adds an extra layer of protection to your business but also allows employees to identify when problems or issues may occur, meaning that they can be resolved quickly.
Not accounting for access control
Here at Newgate this is the most frustrating mistake we see businesses make. Many organisations don’t take into account access control when conducting their risk assessment which can lead to vulnerabilities in their external security.
Ensuring that access to your premises is restricted using these methods is often the first step to ensuring that you, your business and your employees remain safe and secure.
Not having sufficient ID procedures
This mistake is often made by larger organisations where each employee should have their own unique form of identification to be used when entering and exiting the premises. This ensures that all employees are accounted for and that no one can gain unauthorised access to your premises.
Having sufficient ID procedures can also be a useful tool for visitor management and allows you to ensure that all those present in your premises are allowed to be there.
Inadequate maintenance of security systems
Ensuring that all your security systems are properly maintained is essential to ensure that they continue to function effectively. This doesn’t just apply to access control systems either but other security solutions, such as CCTV and alarm systems, also require proper maintenance.
Maintaining your security systems can also be more cost effective in the long term as correct aftercare can significantly improve the lifespan of your security system, ensuring that your business remains safe and secure in the long term.
If you require any additional information regarding any of perimeter security solutions, please contact the team at Newgate today on 01636 700172 or email websales@newgate.uk.com
