Commercial Security for High-Value Inventory: Best Practices

A business’s inventory is what keeps it alive, so if it gets stolen or vandalised, the consequences can be disastrous.

Unfortunately, burglars have a knack for being able to sniff out high-value items, making commercial buildings a prime target for invasions. Thankfully, there are some steps that you can take to reduce the risk of your inventory being put in harm’s way.

In this article we will run you through these steps, outlining the technology and physical techniques that you can use to protect your business.

The steps to securing your high-value inventory

Keeping your high-value inventory safe will require you to survey your property and identify where any threats could come from. This information should be noted down in the form of a risk assessment.

Create a risk assessment

Before you invest in any security equipment, the first step you should take is to complete a thorough risk assessment of your property. This involves taking note of every detail of the building, from the entry/exit points to the building’s proximity to the road and other buildings.

You should also make note of the existing security equipment, and work out any blind spots it may have. Be sure to mention the locations in which your inventory is held, as these will be areas that require the highest levels of security.

At this point, it’s beneficial to consult with a security professional who can instruct you on how to move forward with a new setup.

Begin planning your security measures

Once you’ve completed the risk assessment, you should begin planning how you’re going to secure your high-value inventory. There are multiple factors to consider here, including the types of security on offer. The main options are:

• Access control
• Security technology
• Physical security

Let’s start by talking about access control.

Access control for inventory storage areas

Every commercial building should be fitted with access control systems, regulating who is allowed into certain areas. This is especially pertinent for areas containing high-value inventory.

Access control systems usually work by using keycards, fobs, PIN numbers, or biometrics and can be placed around the entrances of restricted areas. This will ensure that no intruders can simply walk up to the door of a warehouse or store room, pull the handle, and gain entry.

Here are the forms of access control in a bit more detail:

• Keycards/fobs: Both keycards and fobs are commonplace in commercial settings and only require a tap or swipe for authorised personnel to enter. They are efficient and relatively inexpensive. However, if someone loses their keycard/fob, it can leave the building exposed.

• PIN numbers: Using a keypad is also commonplace in commercial buildings. It doesn’t require the staff member to carry round a physical object, preventing the risk of access falling into the wrong hands.

• Biometrics: Biometric technology is a more premium option, allowing access by using fingerprint scanners or facial recognition technology. It is highly effective, albeit more expensive.

Once you have decided on an access control system, it’s time to think about the other forms of security technology.

Security technology

When keeping your high-value inventory safe, it is vital you invest in up-to-date security technology. This includes both CCTV and alarm systems, which act as a deterrent, alert authorities of trespassers, and provide visual evidence when required.

CCTV cameras

When investing in CCTV cameras for your building, it’s important to be strategic. You’ll need to make sure that every potential entry point is in view of a camera, leaving no blind spots that intruders can exploit.

You should also invest in the appropriate cameras for the job. There are many different types of CCTV cameras, with each serving a different purpose:

• Bullet cameras: These are great for outdoor use, as they are robust and weather-resistant. However, they are vulnerable to blind spots, as they don’t have panning features.

• PTZ cameras: Pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras can move the lens to monitor wide spaces. They are especially useful for surveying large spaces like warehouses.

• Night vision cameras: Night vision cameras can provide surveillance in low-lit areas, such as yards. They will provide round-the-clock visuals for your commercial property.

• Dome cameras: Dome cameras are effective in retail areas, acting as a deterrent to thieves. They don’t take up much space and can be hung from the ceiling, making them vandal-proof.

As previously mentioned, the CCTV cameras should be placed strategically. Consult your risk assessment, and the expertise of a professional, to ensure that the areas containing your high-value inventory are covered at all times.

Alarms

Alarm systems provide another effective deterrent to warn off intruders. As well as alerting those around the premises of a break-in, the alarm system will send a signal to a central monitoring station. They will then alert the authorities of the intrusion, prompting a rapid response.

Alarms are far from one-dimensional too, as they can be triggered by the breaking of glass, the opening of doors, or someone entering into the building’s perimeter. Most modern alarm systems will use motion detection technology, which is highly effective in rooms storing high-value inventory.

Physical security

Installing physical security items doesn’t necessarily mean you should employ 24/7 security guards with dogs to man the area. Instead, you can install high fences, heavy duty locks, and anti-theft tags.

Motion-controlled lighting will provide an excellent deterrent to potential intruders. After all, a burglar’s aim is to enter and leave an area without being seen. Flood them in a bright light and they will be unlikely to get any closer to your property.

Protect your high-value inventory with Incognito Systems

At Incognito Systems, we have years of experience in helping businesses in Northamptonshire keep their inventory safe from intruders. With our expertise and premium equipment, we can create a bespoke security system that matches your business’ exact needs.

We also offer maintenance packages to help keep your security system working to the best of its ability for many years to come.

Your inventory is the lifeblood of your business, so make sure it is in safe hands. Contact Incognito Systems today to arrange a free, no-obligation quote.