How to Conduct a Physical Security Audit
Protecting your livelihood is at the top of every business owner’s mind, but how do you know if your business is truly protected? By performing a physical security audit, you can fully assess any threats that your business might be subject to and take the necessary steps to mitigate those threats. During a physical security audit, each aspect of the business and its security system are evaluated for functionality while lesser-known threats or opportunities are also exposed to close any gaps that might exist.
Securing Access
When it comes to security, there are some obvious necessities like functioning locks on windows and doors and ensuring they are closed appropriately. Also, if you already have a security system in place for your business, is it functioning optimally? We’ve outlined several tips below that might not be so obvious.
- Are vehicles able to enter the premises freely, or is the property gated?
- Do doors and windows close automatically?
- If your business has a dock or loading bay, does it remain locked when not in use?
- If large windows are present, are they laminated to prevent easily being broken?
- Are all access points well-lit to prevent someone from hiding to gain entry?
- Are access points monitored to see who has previously used them?
- Is your business monitored for smoke and fire along with security?
- If your business is monitored for fire and intrusion, is it by staff or a third-party?
For an added layer of security, many businesses employ security staff, but the level of security that these guards provide can vary greatly. Are they present 24/7 or only after hours? Do they verify the identity of each person coming and going from your business or inspect vehicles? Also, if your guards do security checks and perform patrols of the property, make sure they vary their patrol patterns to reduce the likelihood of criminals taking advantage of a routine.
Keeping a Watchful Eye
If your business utilizes a closed-circuit television (CCTV) or surveillance system, measures must be taken to guarantee that it’s able to function properly. Here are some items to consider when it comes to getting the most protection out of your CCTV system.
- Do your cameras provide adequate coverage of all aspects of your business to include the outside of the property, the building’s perimeter, and the entirety of the building’s interior? The fewer blind spots, the better!
- Are your cameras able to seamlessly switch from daytime to nighttime mode without issue?
- Are your cameras constantly monitored, or are they only reviewed following an incident?
Making It Count
Performing a security audit should become part of every business owner’s routine. This should include both scheduled and unscheduled audits to ensure that security stays at the forefront of each employee’s mind. While these tips and tricks can have you on your way to a more secure business, a professional security audit will better educate you and your employees on how to fully protect your business. FSS Technologies can easily help you identify the security risks that are unique to your business and supply you with a custom-built security system that fully suits your needs. Schedule your audit and consultation today!
Explore Our Other Blogs
When Is Automatic Fire Detection Required?
A fire detection system is a good idea for your property, and many insurance companies offer discounts based on your level of protection. While not required in your private residence, the law does require automatic fire detection in a wide array of other facilities. Local Building Code Requirements Your state’s building code will spell out…
How Poor Security Can Cost Your Business
Poor security practices have hidden costs With the many expenses that business owners must juggle for day-to-day operations, security often falls by the wayside. Even though it seems like an easy way to save money, the cost of handling a break-in can surpass the money you’d spend on installing and maintaining a security system. Here…
What are BDA Systems?
As technology continues to evolve and building codes grow more stringent, bi-directional amplifier (BDA) systems are no longer just a luxury—they’re a critical component in ensuring your building’s safety and compliance. Whether you’re a property owner, facilities manager, or contractor, understanding BDA systems is essential, and choosing the right partner for installation makes all the difference….
How to Deter Burglars From Your Business
Burglaries are often considered crimes of opportunity, leaving businesses struggling to recover in the aftermath. Although there is no all-powerful solution to protect your business, you can implement various preventative measures that bolster your security efforts. Here are 5 actions you can take to help deter burglars from casing and breaking into your business. 1….
What are the Components of a Security System?
Security systems can vary widely in size and scale: from simple home alarms and small business surveillance systems to commercial-grade intrusion and detection systems. One system could even be comprised of enterprise-level networks that stretch across multiple locations. Understanding the essential components of a security system is the best way to start your search for…
Spring Cleaning Your Security System
The unofficial countdown to summer begins for many of us each year as we “spring forward” into daylight saving time, moving the clock forward one hour to give us an extra hour of sunlight at the end of every day. Since this is the time of the year when we change our clocks, it is important…
How to Deter Burglars
While owning a home security system automatically decreases your chances of being burglarized, there are many common mistakes and oversights that can compromise its reliability. Here are the most important safety precautions you can take in conjunction with your security system to ensure your home is safe from thieves. Create the Illusion that Someone is…
How Often Should You Inspect Your Fire Alarm System?
Everyone dreads the day when fire alarm systems are being tested because they are often loud and annoying. However, the importance of making sure your fire alarms are working properly outweighs the small distraction of lights and noise. Putting off a fire alarm inspection can be both risky and negligent for business owners as it…
Are You a Spectrum Customer Losing Service?
When Spectrum closed the doors on its home security system business in February 2020, many customers were left high and dry. The Spectrum Backstory Spectrum is a subsidiary of Charter Communications, the second-largest cable provider in the country offering service in 42 states. Charter inherited Spectrum in a 2016 merger with Time Warner Cable and Bright House…
Smart Home Technology for Aging Adults
Alzheimer’s Awareness Around 75% of seniors want to stay in their homes as they age, according to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), even if they need day-to-day assistance or have ongoing health issues like early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 5.8 million Americans are living with the disease, and by…