Security concerns at a business premises won’t fade away if you ignore them. They have to be squashed with proactive measures, otherwise they’ll keep you awake at night!
One of the most effective measures you can take to stamp out on-site security problems is to install a CCTV camera system on your business premises. CCTV will do more than just boost your security – it improves on-site health and safety while adding value in other unexpected ways. Whether you operate a large office, retail store, warehouse or factory, there’s a mountain of compelling reasons to install CCTV at your business.
We’re going to take a look at ten of them today!
1. Deterring Criminals
You’ll find that the presence alone of security cameras is enough to deter anybody with illegal ideas. Thieves or trespassers will see the cameras and put your business in the too-hard basket. A criminal wants to keep their nefarious activities as risk-free as they possibly can, so will definitely think twice about trying to access your premises once they’ve spotted the cameras.
2. Reducing Security Costs
If you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective alternative solution to security guards, CCTV cameras, CCTV cameras will more than likely fit the bill. Most businesses will struggle to fit 24/7 on-site guards into their budget, whereas CCTV costs are easier to absorb. They require minimal upkeep, seamlessly integrating with other security tech and allowing you to remotely check in on the cameras at any time from any location.
3. Discouraging Vandals
Nothing like rocking up to the workplace on a Monday morning to discover vandals have spray-painted your entire fleet of cars with graffiti. Whether it’s property damage or petty destruction, CCTV is going to dissuade vandals as they know they’re being recorded. If they continue with their actions and vandalism does occur, the footage caught on your cameras provides key evidence in catching and holding the perpetrators to account, which we’re going to talk about next.
4. Camera Footage Can Be Used as Evidence
If someone commits a crime on your premises, clear video footage is invaluable evidence to pass on to law enforcement. It can help them in their investigations, support your insurance claims and even be used in court if it gets to that. Without it, you can be left relying on unreliable eyewitness accounts, hearsay or circumstantial evidence. CCTV provides a source of truth that will help you get justice.
5. Handling Disputes
Workplace disputes are something all management teams encounter at some point. It could be conflict between team members, an argument with a customer or a bullying or harassment accusation. CCTV footage can help resolve issues like this quickly, as it’s a neutral third party providing an unbiased review of events. For managers seeking clarity on an HR issue, it can be invaluable in preventing disputes from escalating.
6. Team Oversight
CCTV surveillance helps ensure team members are adhering to company policy and procedure. While employee trust is very important, having some measure of accountability will encourage responsibility. Also, keeping tabs on sensitive areas or procedures with CCTV will ensure safety protocol is followed, and provide a learning opportunity if it isn’t. This is imperative if high-value products or information are involved.
7. Improve Operational Management
The day-to-day operations will become more streamlined and efficient thanks to the addition of CCTV. This is because you can observe workplace functions on a macro level, spot areas that need improvement and take action to get them up to speed. There might be double handling of goods in a warehouse, or workflow bottlenecks in an office. You’ll be able to iron them out and enjoy better productivity.
8. Improved Customer Service
CCTV brings a high level of accountability to an organisation because it monitors interactions with customers. If a complaint is lodged, management can review footage to effectively address the issue. Both sides actions will be on record, so it’s easier to determine the correct response to the complaint. Staff in customer-facing roles need to maintain professional courtesy at all times, and knowing they’re on camera encourages them to do so.
9. Reduced Insurance
9. Reduced InsuranceIf your business has comprehensive security measures in place, you’re likely to be offered lower premiums from your insurer. Having CCTV installed shows you’re prepared to take the right steps to protect your workplace and improve onsite safety. This reduces risks of criminal activity and damage, which in turn reduces the likelihood of claims. It’ll also help speed up claims when they happen because you’ll have the video footage of the incident.
10. Peace of Mind
Everybody wants to be able to sleep soundly at night, without workplace issues nagging away at them inside. One of CCTV’s most valuable benefits is the peace of mind it brings. Your premises are monitored all day and all night, and it’s as simple as opening an app on your phone to make sure everything is ok on site.
Contact the Brisbane CCTV Experts
Smile IT has an operational technology department, and one of our specialties is installing commercial-grade CCTV at Queensland businesses. We’ve helped many business owners and management teams enjoy that elusive peace of mind while being able to reduce crime, handle disputes better and improve productivity.
CCTV is a proactive solution that’s an investment in the long-term success of your business, whether you’re in mining, retail or hospitality. We’d love to help you enjoy its many benefits, so please get in touch today if we can help!
When he’s not writing tech articles or turning IT startups into established and consistent managed service providers, Peter Drummond can be found kitesurfing on the Gold Coast or hanging out with his family!