If you think that security is of no concern to you (perhaps you’ve been lucky enough in the past), think again: about 20% of all crime is perpetrated against businesses in the UK. This includes not just actual physical crime against property of persons, but also cybercrime, which results in about £21 billion a year. Crime is a multi-billion dollar industry, and businesses – both big and small – need to protect themselves against it. Luckily, taking some precautions makes you a lot safer, and the fact is that these precautions are both economical and very effective. Here are the top five ways you can enhance security in your business premises.
Where’s the risk?
Before you can solve the problem, you need to understand what the problem is. Before you can improve the security of the premises, you need to know where the weak spots are. The first step is to carry out a risk assessment. This involves imagining you yourself as a burglar or vandal – and this can be fun – although it’s wise to seek professional help, such as help from Oxford security services like Securipol. Additionally, your neighbourhood patrol is often more than willing to lend a friendly word of advice as well.
Remove the weak spots
This may sound simple but it requires improvements. Make the wall a little higher, install better locks and bolts, secure your windows, install more lights so all areas within the premises are visible. It may also involve installing CCTV systems, mirrors, and other technology. Rest assured that they are worth it, as it will automatically not only make it harder for the criminal, but also serve as a deterrent.
Secure your valuables
Keep them all in one place and appoint only a few people with the responsibility of handling them.
Protect the staff
If you do not wish to hire security personnel, then it may be a good idea to provide some training to key members of your staff so they can act properly as guardians and custodians.
Listen to advice
Your local police station and council are there to serve you. So are many private companies. Seek advice.
In the end, it’s about being vigilant, and that’s why it’s also important to carry out regular checks – criminals often change their modus operandi simply because they’ve figured out what to watch out for. By staying vigilant and testing your own system on a regular basis (by examining and re-examining your system and your weak spots) you stay on top of the game and are able to prevent a lot of hassle from occurring in the future. The benefits go far: from having lower insurance premiums to better employee morale. Be safe – it’s the wise thing to do.
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