Do you need a CCTV Camera?

Why businesses should invest in CCTV cameras?

As a small business owner, you are concerned about the safety of your business premises and the security of your staff as well as your customers. Employing security personnel 24/7 may prove cost prohibitive and running background checks on personnel employed may not always be foolproof. Security measures such as CCTV cameras, recorders, and fingerprint/password protected access control systems ensure legal help if things go wrong. More important, they can actually prevent or stop things from going south.

Studies suggest that establishments that own CCTV cameras actually deter antisocial behavior including theft and vandalism. If you own an establishment that deals in goods and commodities, strategically placed CCTV cameras may deter mobsters, shoplifters, and even rough behavior by unhappy customers or members of the public. Both your staff employees and customers are likely to be more professional if they know that any unlawful action maybe caught on tape.

Another reason you may want to consider CCTV is due to growing threat of violence at work. The violence could be in the form of bullying at work or sexual, verbal, or emotional harassment. CCTV in different places in your establishment acts as a monitor and allows you access to any unprofessional behavior at work. Violence at the workplace may also arise from individuals who are intoxicated, suffer from mental health problems, young people in groups, and armed robbers. In such a scenario, having a security system in place is very important to either stop a situation or seek police help incase violence has occurred. CCTV recording maybe entered as evidence with the police and often helps them track down miscreants.

CCTV for business

CCTV packages come in various selections at different price points ensuring that there is one that will fit your budget. Certain packages are best for home security or small businesses, while others are optimal for bigger properties and shopping establishments. Whatever CCTV package you choose; ensure that you receive the maximum bang for your buck.

• Camera resolution, video quality and frames per rate (or how smoothly the captured video plays out) are key features to consider when you purchase a CCTV package for business. Availability of these features depends on price of CCTV and what your business surveillance system requires.
• Innovations in CCTV recordings now allow you access to live footage via streaming video on your computer, and through the Internet on your smart phones and online on your security website or personalized website. Value additions such as phone and email alerts allow you to see real time video of any wrongful activity that maybe taking place on premises even when you are away. Real time video allows you to trigger the alarm response system to get immediate police help.
• CCTV for business provides safety to staff and customers during working hours. After business hours, a well functioning CCTV package continues to protect your premises and property. Night surveillance systems consist of CCTV with night vision features. These cameras capture images even in low light areas and feature performance enhancing infrared lighting. Even in pitch darkness, night vision cameras can capture images of intruders and unlawful activity.
• Consider investing in waterproof CCTV cameras if you need them for exterior purposes. Most surveillance systems need protection from environmental hazards such as wind and rain. Clarity and definition of images maybe compromised if your CCTV cameras suffer damage due to rains.

Installing CCTV for security

If you are installing CCTV cameras at your establishment, here is what you need to keep in mind:

• If you are a business owner installing any kind of security package for the first time, talk to your staff about the CCTV cameras, their location, their function and maintenance. Training your staff and making them aware of your security plan will assure them of their safety. This may also ease their concern about their privacy.
• Many business owners install CCTV cameras but not DVRs to record the footage. Cutting costs with these “dummy cameras” will prove expensive in case burglary or break-ins take place in your establishment. Without the recording device, only a CCTV camera hardly provides for an effective surveillance.
• While installing CCTV cameras around the business premises take into account the unique location of your property. You may need CCTV cameras to cover both a front entrance and a back alley entrance or gate. You may have a separate access to a storage unit that may also need monitoring. In this case, look for options that allow you to purchase multiple CCTV packages that maybe more economical.
• A CCTV camera will only record the best image in given light. If a certain area needs more light or visibility, consider investing in motion sensor lights or night vision CCTV.
• Regular maintenance of the CCTV cameras and recorder is important. Check that it is set up, working, recording and pointing in the right direction. If your DVR disc has reached maximum capacity, ensure that you either buy additional storage or make provisions for back up.
• Businesses often complain about stolen or missing camera equipment. At the time of installation, ensure that you bolt down any recording equipment.
• The CCTV Code of Practice dictates that you place prominent signs regarding the placement of CCTV cameras. Hidden or covert cameras in commercial establishments may risk punishment if they do not follow specific rules. Similarly, data protection laws dictate how to record or dispose data, viewing or monitoring security personnel and how long they should stay in storage. It is best to enquire about the CCTV Code of Practice in your area or country as these may differ from place to place.

More Security Measures for Business

Along with CCTV cameras, business owners should also consider security measures such as installing multiple-user finger print lock or finger print access control and digital locks. High tech built and stylish looks make these options a go-to for businesses.

• Fingerprint Lock:Sometimes called a biometric lock, a fingerprint lock allows you to create a database of fingerprints for you and opens up a door only after fingerprint identification. You can decide which staff has access to certain areas secured by the fingerprint lock. Micro sensors on the fingerprint access control pad matches fingerprints with those in the data and will not open for individuals that do not possess this identification. The fingerprint lock is an excellent option over traditional methods such as keys, card inserts and padlocks. As part of a keyless system, it certainly beats having to carry keys or cards on you. Moreover, you do not have to deal with the hassle of duplicating keys for your staff and worrying about lost keys. When purchasing a finger print lock, look for features such as scratch proof and moisture proof sensors, durable alloy cover, maximum user capacity, LED display, high security mortise and qualified warranties.
• Digital Lock:Traditional locks maybe picked by burglars using bump keys or pick cylinders. Businesses do have the option of using a digital lock at the main entrance to the property or even for their safes. Digital locks maybe available with a deadbolt or double claw bolt for added security measure. Different types of digital lock maybe available with keyword, pin code and back up keys. Check for features such as multiple card use, intrusion alarm, auto and manual options and weather proof touch screen. Additional features on digital locks may include smoke and fire detection, burglar alarm and remote control operation.

If you’re still wondering whether you need a CCTV camera, the answer is yes. CCTV cameras provide you added security and allow you to capture video, record and store it in order to monitor the security of your home and business space.