Office Security with Cameras: Electronic Watchdogs and Unseen Security Force

Security in today's modern business office is a very different set up than a uniformed security guard coming by to rattle a doorknob periodically in what was standard security measures which were generally ineffective at keeping any determined criminal out of the building.  More sophisticated systems were later developed where the security guard watched a bank of surveillance cameras stationed at various sensitive points around the premises.  The guard may add this electronic gadgetry to patrols on foot.  There may even be guard dogs added to the security team.

 

Office security is much more sophisticated today.  Not only is there a need of protecting valuable equipment such as computers, printers, copiers and fax machines from the risk of theft from outside sources, but unfortunately, employees are known to be the instigators of the crime as well.  Who better to know where the office safe is kept or where the most current electronic gadgets can be found?  A discreet camera can provide surveillance of any space.  By adding video tapes or some other type of digital image capture, a record of anything that occurs within the scope of the camera lens is maintained.

 

This provides some security in that the picture of a thief or burglar is recorded.  In itself, it will not prevent theft, but it can provide a notification through an alarm system that someone has entered the space that doesn't belong there.  With sophisticated systems, the human security forces such as guards or law enforcement personnel can be summoned if the security of a space is breached.  Sometimes security cameras are used as a preventative measure, since someone planning a theft may change their mind when they see a camera that is presumably recording their actions.

 

A security camera can provide safety in areas of the building or office that may not be visible from the main area.  Stairwells, elevators, basements or even secured areas can all be monitored by a security camera set up.  This can provide protection from accidents or foul play for employees working alone or in dangerous areas. 

 

Although less obvious as a reason for office surveillance via a camera, if you have questions about work being performed by various employees in your absence, using a hidden security camera is a way to be sure that your employees are working when they are supposed to be doing so and not occupying their work hours with horseplay, personal work or just hanging around the water cooler.

 

As a business owner or office manager, having office security cameras can also be used to protect yourself from claims regarding sexual harassment, verbal commitments and other situations where legal action is threatened.  Care should be taken that placement of surveillance cameras is in compliance with all state and federal laws regarding privacy issues.

 

Using surveillance cameras as part of your overall office or building security makes a more effective tool than human surveillance alone, since cameras can be placed to protect in areas where a human being would be less effective.