SECURITY SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSES
The features of a business security system will vary depending on the company, the budget and the usual dangers that the company/business faces. The headquarters of a corporation will have a very different security system from that of a warehouse full of merchandise and the latter a very different system from a small shop. RATECH helps you understand the different types of security systems, the options and benefits each of them has, so that you can decide to install a system that you can afford and that can be beneficial to your business for many years to come.
Business security systems protect property, employees, and reduce operating costs. The elements of business security systems vary from business to business, but the most basic among them are:
- Camera surveillance
Camera surveillance protects property and employees. In addition to the uninterrupted surveillance of the premises, camera recordings can identify unwanted persons and be used as evidence for criminal investigations. Camera surveillance can be accomplished in three ways:
- Closed TV (CCTV) circuit, which transmits the signal to one or more monitors. In high-risk premises, the monitors may be continuously under guards’ watch.
- Cable video surveillance, which is more suitable for permanent and uninterrupted surveillance.
- Wireless video surveillance, which is more convenient when the cameras need to be moved occasionally or when the premises are temporary and the cost of a wired system is not justified.
Video surveillance systems can be configured to record continuously or conditionally, meaning that the recording may start when a certain event occurs. For example, the system may start recording when motion is detected, when a sensor announces the opening of a door or window, or at certain times of the day or night. Continuous recording requires more space to store records, but may be necessary for your business needs.
- Detection of fire, smoke and environmental hazards
Sensors can detect the presence of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide or high temperature, and sound alarms. Also, low temperature sensors can be installed in bathrooms, kitchens and other premises where there are water pipes. Other sensors can be placed in flood-prone premises to detect the presence of water. The alarms issued by sensors can be transmitted to an authorized employee, a security company or the police.
- Monitoring of lighting/HVAC/office equipment
These systems notify for events related to heating, air conditioning, lighting and office equipment. For example, the system sends a notification if someone forgets to turn off the lights or the air conditioner or leaves the coffee maker on. On the other hand, the lights, the espresso machine, etc., can be turned off remotely or the air conditioner can be set to the right temperature. For businesses that have costly equipment, dedicated sensors can detect overheating (and other dangerous conditions) and can send alarms or turn off the machine.
- Intrusion detection
Most business security systems offer at least one form of 24-hours-a-day monitoring. Usually this comes in the form of an intruder alarm system. These systems alert and sound alarms when a door or window has been opened, and in this way, they discourage the person trying to enter and, at the same time, notify the responsible persons.
- Access control and identity verification
Electronic access control not only eliminates the use of keys to enter offices or other secure premises, but also records who has entered and when. Electronic access control can be integrated with alarm systems to notify if someone is trying to enter while being unauthorized. These systems may also include elements of identity verification, that enable authorized persons to enter certain business premises. Identity verification can be done in a variety of ways, from cards to biometric features. Many businesses also integrate time & attendance registration and reporting into their access control systems. This facilitates the work of human resources, but also encourages employees for punctuality.
- Intercom
The intercom system is a simple way to control visitors in your business premises. The intercom can be audio or audio-video.
