Business Security Systems Buying Guide

Business security systems are designed to monitor and provide surveillance of a business’ property and information as well as to deter any potential dishonest behavior, theft, or vandalism and also to protect employees.

Companies utilize numerous types of security systems to ensure the safety of their employees, goods, and property. Certain systems are used to prevent unauthorized entry into physical areas and information systems reliant on computers, while others offer surveillance to make identifying threats and recovering lost goods easier and more efficient. Security system technology has grown at an exponential rate and continues to do so, offering greater security measures than ever before.

Benefits

Even the most basic of security systems is often enough to deter theft and dishonest behavior. A simple burglar alarm system is usually the first step taken by companies and individuals looking to protect their businesses.

Start with an Alarm System

Consisting of several different devices, the average alarm system detects any unauthorized entry, sounding an alarm that alerts a monitoring station capable of notifying the authorities. The alarm system has numerous precautionary measures designed to protect valuable information and investments. Infrared motion detectors and door and window contacts monitor entryways and open spaces, while other sensors, capable of detecting acoustic shockwaves, monitor the glass in the windows for any signs of a break-in.

Access Control Systems Provide Customizable Security

Access control systems, along with card access systems, are an added security measure that can be taken. Businesses benefit by only allowing authorized personal with the appropriate code or key card into or out of the building, the building’s gate, or other secure areas within the building itself. Certain access control systems also have a digital component used to protect a business’ vital and private information stored within computer-based information systems. In this digital age where so much is done online, these information systems should be definitively secured from any and all intrusions, both from without and within. Different levels of security are available for both access control systems and card access systems so only the appropriate persons may gain entry to privileged areas.

Make a Statement with a Security Camera System

Security camera systems are used by many businesses to monitor activity on the grounds and within any buildings. Often just the sight of cameras in a business is enough to prevent theft. In the event that theft does occur, security cameras provide invaluable evidence in apprehending the thieves and recovering stolen property. As an additional benefit, the presence of security cameras tends to make employees feel safer while working.

Pitfalls

Though they provide an extremely helpful service, security systems do come with their share of responsibilities.

Do Not Under Secure a Business

It is always a good idea to know the business’ location and understand the value of a business’ products and services to others, even for those individuals who work for the company. If a business is located in an area known for theft and vandalism, then the owners should probably make sure that an adequate system is in place. When the value of a business’ products increases, it is very likely that the temptation to steal those products increases as well. Using these two values as a starting point, a rough estimate can be made about the level of security needed for an establishment. Under-secured businesses are more likely to experience theft from both employees and others.

Do Not Over Secure a Business

As with the section above, knowing a business’ location and the value of it products will aid in determining the right security system. Adding too much security to a business that does not require it is a sure way to spend an unnecessary amount of money in a very short period of time.

A Sizable Investment

A security system is an investment. It provides protection and surveillance of property, goods, and employees. As such, it should not be considered lightly. The problem with this is that security systems can be expensive. Each system described above is subject to its own rates and installation fees. The important thing is not to under secure a business at the expense of potential theft and loss of income down the road.

Pricing

The protection provided by an adequate security system is invaluable to any business. Fortunately, as the different types of security systems develop over time, their cost tends to drop, if only slightly. The question is always whether or not the initial cost of a security system outweighs the potential for loss. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, dishonest employees costs American businesses and their owners around $50 billion per year, while the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that nearly 75% of all employees steal at least once. Given these statistics, it is easy to see the need for some form of security, even from with threats within the company.

Alarm System Cost

Typically speaking, an alarm system is not a too costly investment. Installation and equipment fees will be the largest part of the overall cost, ranging from about $100 for a simple system in a small business to round $4,000 for more complex ones. In addition, monthly fees must be paid to the security provider in exchange for their vigilance and service.

Access Control System Cost

The exact cost of an access control system can only be determined by consulting with security companies that offer these services. Once the level of security a business needs has been discussed, a price will be quoted. A single-door entry system can easily reach costs of $2,500, with each additional door usually being lowered in price.

Surveillance Cost

The cameras themselves are not the most costly part of the surveillance equipment. Brand name ones can often be purchased for under $250. The recording equipment will require more thought, however. A digital video recorder (DVR) is available for those in need of higher quality recordings and usually cost about $500 to $1,000 for the most basic, single-channel devices, increasing as more memory and inputs are added. VCRs can also be used and are more cost effective but provide worse quality, and the tapes must be replaced on a regular basis, causing storage dilemmas.

All serious business owners should consider acquiring adequate security systems. Not all businesses will need the same systems, some of which are expensive, but numerous kinds exist to suit the needs of every company or individual looking to stave off theft, vandalism, and dishonest behavior among employees.