If you’re a business owner, likely, your mind is constantly on the next big thing. But as you plan for growth and expansion, don’t forget to think about security. With so much at stake in today’s volatile economy, it’s vital to protect your company against theft, break-ins, and other threats. Here are some tips on ensuring your business is safe and secure.
1. Secure all of your doors
Securing your business is not just a one-time thing; it’s an ongoing process. This can be as simple as locking up at night and ensuring that your windows are always closed when you’re not inside the building. For instance, if you own a construction company, you must install a tracking device for your construction tools. This way, if someone were to break into your business overnight and steal some equipment, you’d know immediately and be able to take preventative measures.
If you have a larger building, it’s recommended to invest in security cameras and motion detectors to help detect intruders before they harm anyone or damage property. For even more peace of mind, consider installing an alarm system so that if someone tries to break in, there will be an audible warning sound, so everyone knows something is wrong. Statistics show that theft and embezzlement account for most business crimes in the United States, so it’s essential to take measures to protect your assets.
2. Protect your business data by backing up important files
You should have a backup system to ensure your important files are secure. Back up your files regularly and keep backups on an external hard drive or the cloud.
If you don’t already have a backup system in place, consider cloud storage. Cloud storage allows you to store your data online and access it from any location with internet access. This can also serve as an offsite backup for when there’s no room left on your computer’s hard drive or if something happens to the machine itself.
3. Install security and surveillance systems throughout your building
The first step to making your business safe and secure is installing security and surveillance systems throughout your building. There are several types of security and surveillance systems, including:
- Security cameras — Cameras can be placed in public areas, such as hallways, lobbies, and entrances/exits. These cameras work by recording images that will be saved onto a hard drive after an event occurs. The footage can then be accessed if there is ever a need to review it.
- Alarm systems — Motion sensor alarms are used to detect unauthorized entry into an area or room by moving objects (such as people). Suppose a motion is detected inside the perimeter of an area or room where these alarms are installed. In that case, they will automatically trigger the sound of a loud alarm, so anyone nearby will know someone has entered without permission or authorization.
- Security guards — A member of your staff who regularly patrols your property could also act as an extra layer of protection against potential threats from outsiders looking to cause harm at your business location(s). This person may also monitor traffic through specific points to better understand who visits each day so that you can monitor for suspicious activity among regular customers.
4. Review reports from guards and alarm companies
Checking in with the security guards your company has hired is a great way to stay familiar with what’s happening in your building. If you’re not sure how often you should be checking in, talk to the security company. They’ll have insight into what works best for different businesses and locations.
Checking in regularly will allow you to make sure that all systems are working properly and that none of them need repair or updating. It’s also an opportunity for you as a business owner to get feedback from your employees about any security concerns they may have had recently—this helps ensure everyone feels safe at work!
5. Use background checks and keep careful records of personnel
Background checks are an essential part of the hiring process for any business. Your business must hire reliable, trustworthy employees who will do their job well and not cause harm to your company or its customers. When conducting a background check, it is best to interview each applicant in person. This gives you the chance to get to know them better and ensure they’re a good fit for the position.
You should also keep careful records of all employees’ background checks during their time with your company so that if there are ever any legal issues later on down the road, you’ll have access to this information when needed (and can use it as evidence in court).
6. Secure your property with perimeter fencing and signage
A fence will help you keep people and vehicles out of your property, but it’s also important to let people know that you have an alarm system. Make sure that any perimeter fencing is well-lit, so it’s evident at night. Also, install signs with a clear message about the presence of an alarm system and its operating hours.
This will deter potential criminals from entering the premises if they know they risk being caught in the act by an armed guard or police officer who is alerted to their presence by the alarm system sensors. Also, ensure your business has a fire extinguisher and smoke detector near every exit point, including doors leading outside the building itself!
7. Protect the safety of your employees
As a business owner, you should be aware that your employees are an essential asset to your company. Your staff is the face of the company and will represent your brand from day one. Having a knowledgeable team about their roles and responsibilities can help protect both you and your clients from threats.
In addition to having an employee handbook in place, it’s also vital for employees to know how to recognize threats and act appropriately when they see something suspicious or dangerous happening at work. A training program gives them the tools needed to respond quickly and effectively when confronted with a situation requiring immediate attention or intervention.
In Closing
With these tips, you can prepare your business for any situation that may arise. Not only will they help prevent crime and theft, but they’ll also make sure everyone feels safe and secure at work.