While cybersecurity and AI might be gaining plenty of headlines in the business press, most physical businesses with premises and stock to protect are more concerned about the practical security risks to their company.
From assaults on staff in retail stores to thefts from inside warehouses and targeted heists of industrial machinery from building sites, crime is rampant and a scourge to all businesses across the six counties, including Down.
Organised and opportunistic crime is on the increase with vandalism, theft and trespass all taking place in the open as criminals see an easy opportunity rather than breaking into a premises.
The Rise of Smart Security to Mitigate Outdoor Security Risks
To combat these risks, security is now a serious issue for all business leaders, with cameras deployed at the forefront, from body-worn models for public-facing staff to in-vehicle systems to protect transports and stock. That’s especially as vehicle manufacturer-provided systems are now being badged as “for convenience” and not security.
When it comes to offices and warehouses, exterior and interior cameras can protect buildings and loading or storage areas, guarding business valuables. But the modern system is smarter than many businesses are aware of, making use of dashboards, command centres for large companies, and AI to provide advanced coverage and reassurance.
From the typical bullet cameras to long-range, weatherproof, zoom models for large open areas and multi-lens pan-and-scan types for crowded public spaces. Digital smart cameras can be connected to create a unified layer of protection that works in collaboration with access control, number plate recognition systems, traditional security teams and perimeter protection to reassure workers and protect stock and valuables.
Crime is on the Rise, Are Your Security Efforts?
With organised criminals using distraction methods as a common method, the AI system will still monitor all views and provide alerts, even when staff or a security team are responding to the distraction, likely on the other side of the premises.
Even rural areas are now a high-crime zone, with the Ulster Farming Union reporting a 24% rise in annual crime rates. And with fewer resources, farmers need advanced security technology, including drones and remote cameras to protect their crops, livestock and high-value machinery.
While the technology, staff and visitors need training too on how to respond to alerts, on top of traditional efforts like fire and medical emergency drills. Staff should be told how likely a police response is to a serious incident, and how long that will typically take, as well as practical steps to take, from securing themselves to security team response plans to various types of events.
Meeting Insurance Needs and Privacy and Safety Laws
These systems, especially those that cover the public, can help reduce insurance bills, provide clear evidence trails when a crime is committed and help companies meet compliance and security objectives, especially for regulated industries.
As part of the planning and install, systems must comply with GDPR and the Data Protection Act for data security. While security monitoring must be justifiable, transparent, and proportionate, with regular updates.
Employers must have completed a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), establishing clear, written policies detailing when cameras record and how data is handled, with that information shared with staff to prevent undue concerns and signage to clearly highlight where recording is in progress.
As security technology becomes widespread, networks can also be created to create broad local coverage areas that can detect threats before they strike. From regular unusual visitors monitoring a location to gangs of local youths, staff can be advised to take appropriate action before it becomes a problem.
With theft and property damage at the top of the crimes list for most UK businesses, those in Down, from Bangor to Holywood, must be prepared for the changing criminal landscape coming their way, and the challenges this creates for companies. Especially those with limited budgets for security or who find that accepting crime is no longer an option as they grow.
Beyond crime, these smart camera systems and security planning can also help protect businesses and staff from the growing number of extreme weather events. Plans are needed to protect premises from fires, flood and the worst the increasingly unpredictable Down weather can throw at them.
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