In an age where cybersecurity is the most pressing concern, most small businesses fail to realize how physical security can protect them. Although boosting your online security is essential, you also need to focus on your organization’s physical location. There are many physical threats, ranging from burglars targeting your hardware to sneaky criminals who are after your data.
Theft and vandalism at your premises can cost your business financially and disrupt critical operations. To mitigate against these physical risks, you need to step up your security measures. With an elaborate security plan, you will be in a position to identify vulnerabilities, seal loopholes, detect breaches, and protect your company. Here are some handy tips for improving physical security at your business.
Secure From the Outside
To protect your employees, valuable assets, and property start by securing your facility from the outside in. The type of security measures you select will depend on the nature of your business, the assets in the premises, and the level of crime in the location.
Depending on your type of business, you can set up a fence, improve outdoor lighting, and install high-security deadbolts on all exterior doors and other high-value rooms. Deadbolts are capable of locking out even the most determined intruders, as noted by Locksmiths St Kilda. These outdoor security measures act as your first line of defense against criminals.
Implement Access Control
To control who comes in and goes out of your premises, invest in a keyless access system. These tools are versatile, more efficient, and convenient compared to manual keys. Some substandard mechanical locks can be picked or even opened with duplicate keys. After an employee leaves your company, you may be forced to replace the locks on all doors to minimize the risk of a break-in.
Keyless access systems can be installed in rooms where sensitive information or valuable equipment is stored. These systems include access card, password, pin, or fingerprint systems. Using these technologies, you can limit the number of employees who can access certain rooms and lockout intruders.
Keep an Inventory of Assets
Most small businesses are increasingly using portable devices to conduct their operations. These devices include laptops, tablets, and even smartphones. While these devices offer convenience, they can cause security problems if they end up in the wrong hands. To prevent this, document all the devices your business has. This will help you to identify where a device is at any particular time.
Businesses also need to create an inventory of all their critical assets. Without a detailed list of your equipment or other critical items, you may even fail to notice an item has been stolen. In such a scenario, it would be difficult to know when it happened and who was responsible. Make sure any asset you acquire is recorded and stored safely, or assigned to someone who will be responsible for it.
Set Up a Surveillance and Monitoring System
When it comes to physical security, video surveillance and monitoring systems are instrumental. These systems can be utilized to monitor who comes in and out of your premises, and at what time. Cameras should be placed in entry points, vulnerable areas, and in locations where they can record clear footage.
If well positioned, a security camera can not only record all events but also deter an intruder. Insider security threats will also reduce as your employees will behave better if they know they are being recorded. Modern surveillance systems can be interconnected with your mobile device and warn you when a threat is detected.
Wrapping Up
There are many physical threats that can cause security challenges for your business. Remember that even the most solid security measures will be of little use if your employees aren’t trained in securing your premises. Therefore, train your employees on safety policies and procedures.
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