How to Conduct a Physical Security Audit
Protecting your livelihood is at the top of every business owner’s mind, but how do you know if your business is truly protected? By performing a physical security audit, you can fully assess any threats that your business might be subject to and take the necessary steps to mitigate those threats. During a physical security audit, each aspect of the business and its security system are evaluated for functionality while lesser-known threats or opportunities are also exposed to close any gaps that might exist.
Securing Access
When it comes to security, there are some obvious necessities like functioning locks on windows and doors and ensuring they are closed appropriately. Also, if you already have a security system in place for your business, is it functioning optimally? We’ve outlined several tips below that might not be so obvious.
- Are vehicles able to enter the premises freely, or is the property gated?
- Do doors and windows close automatically?
- If your business has a dock or loading bay, does it remain locked when not in use?
- If large windows are present, are they laminated to prevent easily being broken?
- Are all access points well-lit to prevent someone from hiding to gain entry?
- Are access points monitored to see who has previously used them?
- Is your business monitored for smoke and fire along with security?
- If your business is monitored for fire and intrusion, is it by staff or a third-party?
For an added layer of security, many businesses employ security staff, but the level of security that these guards provide can vary greatly. Are they present 24/7 or only after hours? Do they verify the identity of each person coming and going from your business or inspect vehicles? Also, if your guards do security checks and perform patrols of the property, make sure they vary their patrol patterns to reduce the likelihood of criminals taking advantage of a routine.
Keeping a Watchful Eye
If your business utilizes a closed-circuit television (CCTV) or surveillance system, measures must be taken to guarantee that it’s able to function properly. Here are some items to consider when it comes to getting the most protection out of your CCTV system.
- Do your cameras provide adequate coverage of all aspects of your business to include the outside of the property, the building’s perimeter, and the entirety of the building’s interior? The fewer blind spots, the better!
- Are your cameras able to seamlessly switch from daytime to nighttime mode without issue?
- Are your cameras constantly monitored, or are they only reviewed following an incident?
Making It Count
Performing a security audit should become part of every business owner’s routine. This should include both scheduled and unscheduled audits to ensure that security stays at the forefront of each employee’s mind. While these tips and tricks can have you on your way to a more secure business, a professional security audit will better educate you and your employees on how to fully protect your business. FSS Technologies can easily help you identify the security risks that are unique to your business and supply you with a custom-built security system that fully suits your needs. Schedule your audit and consultation today!
Explore Our Other Blogs
Best Small Business Security Systems
While no two small businesses are the same, they share commonalities when it comes to what they want in a security system. Most small business owners want to do three things: Protect their people, property, and assets from fire Protect their people, property, and assets from theft See what is happening in their business even…
Do You Know How Your Alarm System Communicates?
What is alarm monitoring? One of the most sought-after features for residential and commercial security systems is 24/7 alarm monitoring. Monitored security systems are connected to a central monitoring facility with staff who review tripped alarms, verify emergencies, and contact relevant emergency services. Monitors generally reach at least two phone numbers connected to a residence…
5G Security Concerns & the 3G Sunset
Consumers are using the internet on the go more than ever. By 2022, it is projected that consumers will utilize nearly 11GB of data per month, primarily due to video consumption. To create a more robust and long-term solution, technology infrastructure is working towards the next generation of mobile networks: 5G. With this network upgrade…
How Your Internet Speed Affects Your Security System
Internet speed is a precious commodity in today’s connected homes. Internet speed is responsible for how quickly or slowly data moves from the internet to the application on your computer. Things like your mobile phone, television, computer, gaming system, and even appliances use the internet. And your home security system probably does too. The average…
The Cost of Alarm Monitoring vs. the Cost of a Break-In
Property crime in the United States is costly. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, property crimes in 2018 resulted in an estimated $16.4 billion of losses. The Cost of Crime Larceny-theft is the most common of all property crimes, accounting for 73.4 percent. Larceny-theft is defined as the unlawful taking, carry, leading,…
What Kind of Certifications Make Our Team Security Experts?
At FSS Technologies, we pride ourselves on the fact that we are not your typical fire safety or security company. When people call us, they don’t want a one-size-fits-all solution — they want our experts to design a system that perfectly fits their needs. We take “First in Security, First in Satisfaction” seriously to ensure every…
Lowe’s Iris Line Goes Under
Many consumers are seeing red with the recent news that big-box retailer Lowe’s is shutting down service to its Iris smart home platform. Lowe’s launched its Iris cloud service in 2012 so it could sell its own smart home products to the public. Customers with an Iris smart hub, the heart of the network, could…
Motion Detector Installation Basics
Motion detection devices are a crucial component of any security system, commercial or residential. They allow owners to cover a relatively large amount of space with a small number of devices. Motion detectors also are known to detect activity that window sensors might miss. When it comes time to install motion detection devices, remember these…
Is the Use of CCTV Cameras in the Workplace Illegal?
Know the Law Business owners are responsible for the security and well-being of their employees and company property. Many companies use technology such as cameras, motion detectors, and other tools to keep an eye on their building or cash areas. Many new businesses and employees may be wondering: Are CCTV cameras illegal in the workplace? Let’s…
Alarm Monitoring Services: How They Work
An ear-piercing siren and flashing strobe lights create an immediate sense of emergency and indicate an alarm of some sort has been triggered. Now that the alarm has been triggered and the warning sirens have sounded, what happens next? If you have a monitored security system, it won’t just be the neighbors or passerby alerted to…