How do you ensure the security of a building?

Commercial premises have diverse security needs. Ensuring building security takes a comprehensive approach to protecting physical assets, property, and personnel. It will usually involve a range of elements, as well as a strategic approach that ensures that any new threats are addressed as they emerge.

Corporate security managers will work with security professionals to ensure commercial building security. These will be tailored to the specific risks faced by the location of the building, its size and how it’s used.

Risk assessment

Establishing robust commercial building security will usually begin with a thorough risk assessment. This will involve identifying potential security threats, such as vandalism, break-ins, and theft. The assessment will consider the location of the building, the local crime rate, industry specific factors, and the kind of assets you need to protect. A bank or building society will have very different security needs compared to a small shop or office.

A risk assessment enables the building and security managers to determine the best use of available security resources.

Access control systems

Access control systems regulate who can enter and exit the building. They can also be used to restrict access to particular areas within the building. These can use a range of technologies, from keycard or fob systems, biometric security that uses fingerprint or facial recognition technology, gates and turnstiles, and automated doors.

Access control systems are an integral part of commercial building security, providing a reliable way to manage and track entry to the building. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access as well as potential internal threats.

Surveillance systems

Surveillance systems, such as CCTV, will often form a key part of building security. These not only provide real-time on-site, or remote monitoring, they can also act as a visible deterrent against theft and vandalism. Should any incident occur, they can also be used to gather evidence. Typically, CCTV systems will cover areas such as entrances and exits, reception areas, corridors and stairwells, storage areas, parking lots and loading bays. Surveillance systems will often be integrated with other security systems, such as alarm systems and access controls. These help to create a comprehensive building security infrastructure that allows a quick response from the security personnel and the building occupants.

Alarm systems

Alarm systems are a critical part of commercial building security. Modern alarms are highly sophisticated and cover a range of potential uses, such as intruder alarms, fire alarms, and panic alarms. All of these give early warning against potential security threats, allowing for a rapid response. Some businesses may choose to link alarm systems to rapid response services or external security teams, who can respond quickly to any potential problem.

Perimeter security

Ensuring that the perimeter of a commercial building is secure is a critical factor, particular at larger sites, such as warehouses and manufacturing plants. This will usually consist of high security fencing, gates and bollards to control access, and motion sensitive or continuous lighting around the perimeter. Landscaping features, such as prickly bushes, can also act as a deterrent to intruders, and can form a helpful part of overall building security.

Security policies and procedures

As well as ensuring that the appropriate physical security is in place, businesses also need to develop comprehensive security policies and procedures. Employees need to understand the role they play in maintaining security.  Staff training should be provided to ensure that everyone is aware of their role and responsibilities, and that their skills are regularly updated. Training should help them recognise any potential issues, understand what to do in an emergency situation, and how to use security systems.

Regular audits and upgrade

Regular security audits and assessment should be undertaken to ensure that systems, protocols, and technologies are still fit for purpose. As technology evolves, new systems can be incorporated. Regular audits ensure that commercial building security systems remain relevant and comprehensive.

Commercial building security from Safetell

At Safetell, our experienced team can help ensure your commercial building security is realistic, robust, and comprehensive.

Our unique  portfolio of products and services, from door automation to speed gates, have been developed to meet the evolving needs of our clients. They have been tried and tested for over 30 years and are designed to provide full comprehensive levels of protection for employees and company assets, protecting against attacks, intrusions and theft.

Contact us to discuss your building security requirements and to find out more about our products.