Improving Office Security with Integrated Alarm Systems
Often containing tens of thousands of pounds worth of equipment and technology, office buildings are well on the radar of burglars. With an integrated alarm system, you can keep a constant eye on your building, helping you improve response times and catch thieves in the act.
In this article we’ll explain how integrated systems work, outlining their many benefits along the way.
What is an Integrated Alarm System?
An integrated alarm system combines a range of security components into one centralised system. This includes CCTV cameras, access control systems, and of course, security alarms. With all your security system components hooked up to one central system, monitoring is made a lot simpler.
It’s especially useful to have an integrated system in an office complex. Not only does it enhance the overall security of the premises, it helps to streamline management and improve response times.
How Do Integrated Alarm Systems Work?
Integrated alarm systems bring all of your commercial security components together into a single system. The system has a control panel that essentially acts like a brain, managing everything at once.
From this centralised point, security personnel can manage and monitor the work of the security equipment. This makes security monitoring simple, as everything is done on one interface, rather than having to log into separate platforms to access different equipment.
How integrated alarm systems collaborate
Integrated alarm systems work completely in real time. When an alarm is triggered, it will immediately cause the CCTV cameras to start recording, helping to capture evidence of the break in. It will also send alerts to security personnel, ensuring a rapid response and lowering the chances of total loss in a burglary.
In addition to activating the cameras, the alarm system will trigger the access control systems around the building. This will automatically restrict access to certain areas, trapping intruders in and making them easy to catch.
As well as connecting to security features, integrated alarm systems can also incorporate safety features such as fire alarms. This will allow for improved, rapid evacuation procedures in case a fire breaks out.
The benefits of integrated alarm systems for office security
Integrated alarm systems have multiple benefits, ranging from better quality of security to enhanced safety of staff members. They can revolutionise the workplace, offering peace of mind, which tends to result in better productivity levels.
Enhanced security
An integrated security system won’t only include an alarm system, which is already an effective deterrent in its own right. Instead, you’ll be combining your alarms with CCTV cameras and access control systems. This will give you full coverage of your office building, with all the nooks and crannies under permanent surveillance.
Easy system management
Instead of having to keep check on multiple security systems, integrated equipment will be controlled by the same centralised hub. As a result, monitoring will be simpler and more efficient. Being able to access each aspect of your security system via the same user interface makes the setup more accessible, whatever your technological proficiency.
Faster response times
If an unauthorised individual enters your office building, every second counts. A fast response time by your security system will minimise loss and damages caused. An integrated system’s components will work together, providing you with instant alerts of a break-in.
Say your alarm has been triggered, it will have the capability to send an alert to the access control systems, instantly locking certain areas of the building. This will prevent a burglar from accessing even more areas of your building, further minimising their threat.
24/7 monitoring
Integrated security systems will allow for 24/7 remote monitoringc. This will allow you to check that everything is in order even outside of office hours, giving you complete peace of mind.
Integrated systems will be connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), which will give you professional monitoring. So, if you’re a constant checker of your security app, you can rest assured that there are security professionals on hand to do it for you.
Improved productivity
Having the capability to monitor every section of your office will allow you to check on employee productivity. You’ll be able to see exactly if certain areas around the office are in need of more staff, helping to increase workplace efficiency.
Scalability
Unlike the security systems of yesteryear, modern integrated alarm systems are highly scalable. You’ll be able to easily integrate new equipment into the system, future-proofing your security operation. This will inevitably save you money, as you can upgrade older equipment as you go, rather than having to overhaul your entire system.
The components of integrated alarm systems
Integrated alarm systems rely on a number of components for maximum output. As well as alarm systems, these include:
- CCTV cameras: CCTV cameras will allow for constant monitoring and will start recording as soon as the alarm system is triggered. They are essential for gathering evidence of intrusions.
- Access control: When the alarm is triggered, you can have the system lock all access points through the access control system. This can trap intruders in certain areas of the building, preventing them from leaving.
- Motion detection: This will trigger alarms if motion is detected in an unauthorised area. Motion detection is especially useful for speeding up response times.
- Fire detection: As previously mentioned, fire alarms can also be integrated into the system. This will help to alert staff of a fire quickly, improving office evacuation times.
Trust Incognito Systems with your office security
Your office building is the beating heart of your business. Therefore, keeping it safe should be an absolute priority. At Incognito Systems, we have years of experience in protecting businesses across Northamptonshire.
We’ll provide your office with a bespoke security system, matching your exact needs with premium equipment installation. Plus, we’ll work out a solution that aligns with your budget, so you don’t have to worry about overspending.
So, don’t hesitate. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you secure your office building.
