When many people think about securing their business, they think about their data. Large data breaches at retail giants, such as Target, greatly undermine customer confidence. Business security includes more than just keeping data safe. Business owners have to take other factors into consideration when working security of their stores and offices.
- Secure your windows and doors. The access points of any business are where it is the most vulnerable. You can improve your security greatly by installing shatterproof glass and shutters on both the doors and the windows. If you own a retail store that is on the street, it is a good idea to have rolling shutters that you can close over the storefront at the end of the day.
- Install a video surveillance system. Businesses that have had a closed circuit television (CCTV) system installed reduce their loses from theft by at least 70%. These systems are very versatile and can be tailored for your business and the size and shape of your space. Different businesses in different industries have different needs. You may want to place cameras to secure the exterior and interior of your business.
- Make sure you have the right lighting. If you have a business with a parking lot, using solar light towers can help you keep the place well lit at a minimal cost. Using motion detection lighting can help deter criminals from entering your businesses after hours. Solar towers provide options for this kind of lighting. There is also special kinds of portable construction lights that can be used to secure temporary spaces such as pop up shops and festival stands. Good lighting is an important part of any security plan for any kind of business.
- Make sure your fire protection system is working. All businesses need to have a decent fire alarm and fire protection system in place. This can include the fire alarm itself but also a sprinkler system and a connection to the local fire department. Many new sprinkler systems will only set off the units in the area of the fire. Some business owners worry that a sprinkler system will cause more damage than the fire itself but that is a myth. Good fire protection systems can save your business in the event of a fire.
- Control access to your business. Gone are the days when businesses have a simple lock and key. Now most businesses use security doors that include codes and pass cards for entry. This makes it a lot easier to prevent former employees from gaining access once they have stopped working for you. It is much easier to have a security company change the codes than to change a lock and have new keys made. You can also keep track of when staff come and go from your business with this new technology.
- Install a good burglar alarm. Most insurance carriers require the businesses they offer policies to have good burglar alarms in place before their policies take effect. These systems are not just to deter criminals but will send you updates about the security of your business. There are a lot of options so talk to security companies about what the best ones are for your business.
- Do not keep much cash on site. If you run a retail establishment, it is important to not store your cash overnight at the store or restaurant. This is just an invitation for people to rob your business. Make sure that at the end of each night, your employees deposit that or that you take the money to a secure location.
- Protect your data. While this is not the only thing you need to secure, it does need to be kept safe. Make sure your employees change their passwords often. They may need to be trained on the best practices for keeping computer networks and systems secure. This includes not opening attachments from people or companies they do not know and backing up their data frequently. You can also protect your data by limiting access to it. Not all of your staff need to have access to everything.
Securing your business should be important to all of the people who work for your company.
