When You Should Consider a Security System for Your Business

Posted on Sunday, December 29th, 2024 | 185 views

Commercial warehouseIf you are considering adding an advanced security system to your commercial business, this article will help you decide if you need to and to take the next step.

For most businesses, security is about ensuring your employees, your customers, and your business reputation remains safe. Yet, for many businesses, a time comes when they question:

“When is the right time to invest in a security system?”

In this article, we’ll walk through the key indicators that you should consider installing (or upgrading) a business security system, along with practical advice on choosing the right setup.

Why Is Commercial Security So Important?

First we’ll provide you with the top three reasons commercial security is important.

1. Employee Safety

Employee safety is paramount to the success of a business. Your team members should feel safe when they’re at work. By installing alarm systems, surveillance cameras, access security and emergency protocols, you can offer peace of mind that helps with both employee retention and overall morale.

2. Customer Confidence

The same goes for customer confidence and safety. A secure environment encourages customers to continue visiting your establishment and trust your brand. Visible security measures (like security cameras) deter would-be criminals and reassure customers that you care about their safety. This applies to open businesses like convenience stores and supermarkets, to industrial warehouses and corporate spaces.

3. Financial Protection

The costs associated with theft, vandalism, fraud, insurance, liability, and lost revenue can all severely impact your business’s bottom line. Establishing a proactive approach to security helps you avoid these potentially significant and unexpected expenses.

Key Signs You Need a Security System

Person being arrested for crimeThese are the key indicators that it’s time to upgrade your business security measures to ensure you stay ahead of growing threats and to protect what you’ve currently established.

Rising Local Crime Rates

If your local police reports or community watch groups indicate an uptick in vandalism, burglary, theft, and violence, there should be nothing stopping you from getting ahead of the curve and exploring your security options. Statistically, criminals tend to target businesses that appear less protected.

Valuable Equipment and Inventory

If your company stores high-end merchandise (electronics, jewelry, pharmaceuticals) or costly machinery, a security system is a priority. Installing access control, real-time alarms and camera monitoring, you can safeguard these assets against theft or misuse.

Late or Extended Business Hours

Operating late into the night or on a 24/7 schedule puts employees and property at greater risk of being a victim of crime. Alarm systems and surveillance cameras help you maintain oversight at all hours, prevent unwanted incidents, and provide evidence if something nefarious does occur.

Multiple Entry Points

The more doors, windows, hallways and loading docks your building has, the more security vulnerabilities you’ll find. Security systems with sensors, alarms, surveillance cameras and access control need to be strategically installed to monitor all activity and to deter opportunistic individuals.

Insurance Requirements

Some insurance policies require certain levels of security for your coverage to remain valid—or they offer discounted rates if you have a monitored security system in place. Look at your specific policy to find out for sure, but installing or upgrading a system should help you save money on premiums.

Growth and Expansion

If your business is growing—opening new locations or hiring more employees—it’s a good time to review your security measures. More staff, more assets, and more space can mean greater risks if left unsecured.

All the Signs at a Glance

  • Rising Local Crime Rates
  • Valuable Equipment & Inventory
  • Late or Extended Business Hours
  • Multiple Entry Points
  • Insurance Requirements
  • Growth and Expansion

Choosing the Right Security System

Eyeball IP cameraNo two businesses are alike, which means one-size-fits-all security generally doesn’t always work. Because each business has its own set of needs, a proper assessment needs to be done which includes observations and recommendations.

Consider these factors:

Access Control Systems

Compared to traditional locks and keys which are cumbersome and known to be prone to security lapses, modern systems like key card access or biometric readers let you assign cards or fobs much easier than keys, and track who enters, who exits important areas of the property.

For more insight on up-to-date entry access systems, read our post on How Key Card Locks Work in Commercial Security.

Surveillance Cameras

The presence of cameras strongly deters wrongdoers and records footage for evidence—and hopefully future justice.

By installing high-resolution cameras, you’ll capture detailed images and video, while a cloud-based system lets you monitor real-time feeds from anywhere.

Alarm Systems and Sensors

Intruder alerts, glass-break detectors, and door/window sensors work together to create a perimeter of protection which, if breached, will notify you and the local authorities that a crime at your property is in progress.

An alarm and sensor system is one of the most basic, but most fundamental aspects of a business security system and provides a crucial first line of defense that can deter criminals and minimize potential losses

Budget Constraints

If you’re concerned about costs, you can still enhance your security without overspending. We’ve put together an article on How To Increase The Security of Your Business On a Budget, that outlines practical ways to fortify your premises without going over budget.

Security Implementation Steps

Implementation steps are essential for ensuring your business remains secure. By following the guidelines below, you can mitigate risks, protect assets, and maintain a safe environment for employees and customers.

Conduct a Security Audit

Take a systematic look at your premises. Identify entrances, hallways, and high-value storage areas. Determine when and where your staff and customers are most at risk.

Assess Your Insurance Policy

Check if your coverage includes discounts for monitored alarms or advanced security solutions. If your insurance provider requires certain types of systems, prioritize installing those first.

Consult with Professionals

While some business owners opt for DIY solutions, professional installers can offer comprehensive assessments and tailor the system to your unique needs. This step can often save money in the long run by avoiding unnecessary equipment and ensuring everything is done right the first time.

Train Your Staff

A top-of-the-line system is only as effective as the people who use it. Train employees on how to arm, disarm, and properly report suspicious activities.

Routine Maintenance and Upgrades

Over time, technology changes, and so do threats. Regularly review your security setup, update software, and replace outdated equipment to keep your protections strong.

Implementation Steps at a Glance

  • Conduct a Security Audit
  • Assess Your Insurance Policy
  • Consult with Professionals
  • Train Your Staff
  • Routine Maintenance and Upgrades

The Next Steps

It’s always a good idea to be ahead of the ball so don’t wait until after something happens.

If you live in Brantford or the GTHA, contact our team today for a free site assessment and to learn more about our customized commercial security solutions.

Contact Us

  • 466 Elgin St. #1
  • Brantford, ON., N3S 7P8
  • Phone: 855-437-4707

Professional Security services for Brantford, Paris, Burford, St. George, Hamilton, Burlington, Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph, Woodstock, St. Thomas, London, Simcoe and Port Dover.

About Us

Our mission is to provide our customers with reliable security solutions, top quality products, and one of the most dependable home and business security services available in South Western Ontario.

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