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
Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarms
When determining what type of fire alarm systems are best for your business, it boils down to your choice between a conventional and addressable alarm system. The combination of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors work together with your control panel to keep your business safe. Additionally, you will need to determine what kind of automatic…
Inside the Mind of a Burglar
What Message Are You Sending? Whether you know it or not, your business could send a message to potential burglars about how easy or difficult it is to break in. Professional thieves can quickly assess a property, also known as “casing,” to determine if it could be an easy and lucrative target. Unfortunately, many employees…
What are the Different Kinds of Security Video Storage?
Security Video Recordings Storage How much storage does a security camera have? It is a seemingly simple question, with a surprisingly complicated answer. Security and surveillance cameras can use a variety of storage types, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. To choose the right security video storage for you, you will need to consider…
Analog vs. IP Cameras: Key Differences
When you are considering different security systems and potentially implementing surveillance cameras into your home or business, a big question is whether you want IP or analog cameras. Global Market Insights estimates that the IP camera market will be worth more than 20 billion by 2025. With today’s technology both IP and analog systems can be viewed…
Are You a Spectrum Customer Losing Service?
When Spectrum closed the doors on its home security system business in February 2020, many customers were left high and dry. The Spectrum Backstory Spectrum is a subsidiary of Charter Communications, the second-largest cable provider in the country offering service in 42 states. Charter inherited Spectrum in a 2016 merger with Time Warner Cable and Bright House…
Dome vs. Bullet Cameras: Key Differences
Security cameras are an integral part of a security system in any home or business. They give you access to a video stream of what is happening inside a building or on your property while also giving the owner the ability to look back on footage if necessary. There are many different types of CCTV cameras out…
How Landscaping Affects Your Security
Visibility When it comes to the landscaping around your home or business, there are several considerations to keep in mind that could affect your visibility and overall security. While some suggestions to increase visibility and reduce obstructions may seem obvious, others are more subtle and could have a considerable impact. Lighting Having adequate lighting around…
Residential vs. Business Security
What is the difference between a commercial and a residential security system? Commercial real estate is a property type that is only for business or retail purposes. Residential real estate is a property type specifically designed for living purposes, if it is four units or less– anything larger than that is considered a commercial property….
What are the Best Outdoor Security Cameras?
Outdoor security cameras do more than record what happens around a property—they help you see clearly, respond faster, and document events when you need answers. Whether you’re protecting your home’s front porch and driveway or monitoring your company’s parking lot, loading dock, or perimeter gate, the “best” outdoor security camera is the one that fits…
What Are The Different Types of CCTV Cameras?
Your company’s security camera is part of a closed-circuit television system (CCTV). CCTV uses one or more cameras, through either wireless or wired transmission, to send the broadcast from the camera directly to a monitor, set of monitors, or a recording device—providing you peace of mind in the case of crime, fire, theft, or accidents…