Security Planning for New Commercial Builds: What to Consider

Commercial builds are prime targets for burglars and opportunistic criminals. This means that having a strong security system is an absolute necessity. However, with commercial buildings being larger than residential properties, setting up the security system takes a considerable amount of planning.

In this article, we’ll run you through the main points to consider when setting up a security system in a new commercial build.

Why does your new commercial build need security?

If cash and stock are left in the premises overnight, commercial buildings are gold mines to opportunistic burglars. Even offices are under threat, with thousands of pounds worth of electrical items held within their walls.

With so many entry and exit points around commercial properties, a burglar can be in and out within no time. Without proper security systems in place, commercial buildings are extremely vulnerable.

What to consider when planning security for a new commercial build

There is a multi-step process to follow when planning security for a new commercial build. This revolves around various factors, including the size of the building, entry/exit points, and areas which are under more threat than others. Firstly, you should always start with a thorough risk assessment.

Risk assessment

Each commercial property will have different security needs, so it’s important to assess the building in full before investing in a security setup. Here are some things to consider when carrying out a risk assessment:

• Risk potential: Some areas of the building will be at greater risk than others. For example, if part of your building includes a physical store open to the public, it will require a higher concentration of CCTV cameras.

• Priority areas: Areas of the building that are next to public roads, have multiple access points, or are close to other buildings should all be prioritized. Areas that hold stock should also be a main priority.

• Planning: After determining risk and priority areas, you should begin planning what steps you will take to make sure they remain secure. This can be done with the help of a security professional.

All aspects of your risk assessment should be documented for future reference. This documentation can then be used for any follow up risk assessments.

Access control

Allowing easy access into your commercial property is a recipe for disaster, which is why you’ll want to consider installing an access control system. These tend to work with the use of keycards/fobs, PIN codes, or in high-end places, biometrics.

They will ensure that unauthorised individuals can’t access the building by simply pulling on a door handle. They are also far more efficient than other forms of entry, such as handing out keys to employees, or using a buzzer system.

To further enhance building access security, you can install facial recognition CCTV cameras, which will detect unauthorised individuals upon entry.

CCTV Cameras

CCTV cameras are a must-have for commercial buildings. Not only do they act as a deterrent to wannabe intruders, they also provide evidence if your building was to be broken into.

However, there are multiple different types of CCTV cameras, with each serving a different purpose when used in a commercial setting. Here are the different variations to consider:

• Bullet cameras: Bullet cameras are the most widely recognised form of CCTV camera. Bullet cameras are incredibly durable, and will be able to withstand all sorts of weather conditions. They are static, and will require strategic placement for best results.

• PTZ cameras: Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) cameras can be controlled to survey large areas, as the lens can move from side to side, tilt, and zoom in. They can also be monitored and controlled remotely.

• Dome cameras: Dome cameras can be placed on the ceilings of stores and confined spaces to monitor those within the area. They will need to be placed strategically, as they cannot pan, tilt, or zoom.

• Night vision cameras: Night vision cameras are essential for businesses with outdoor areas. They can record footage in low-light, providing you with 24/7 coverage.

To be able to do their job efficiently, multiple CCTV cameras will need to be placed in specific areas. These include potential entry points, areas where stock is held, and areas that are open to the public.

It’s recommended that you seek consultation from a security professional before deciding how many CCTV cameras you should order and where they should be placed.

Alarm system

In addition to installing CCTV, you’ll want your commercial property to be covered by an alarm system. Once again, alarm systems act as a deterrent against intruders, but will also send a signal to a central monitoring station.

This will alert the security company and authorities of trespassers, inciting a quick response to the break in. Here are some more useful features that alarm systems can offer:

• Motion sensors: Motion detection sensors will detect any movement in unauthorized areas during all times of day or night.

• Glass break detection: Alarm sensors can be attached to windows, triggering the alarm when glass has been broken to gain entry.

• Door open detection: When doors leading to unauthorized areas, such as storerooms, are opened, a small device can trigger the alarm.

Other things to consider

Here are some other things to consider when planning a security for a new commercial build:

• Budget: It’s important that you allocate a sizeable budget for your commercial building’s security. It’s unlikely to be a cheap process, and if you cut corners you will leave your business vulnerable to burglars.

• Maintenance: Security systems will require regular maintenance to make sure everything’s working as it should be.

• Additional features: There are plenty of additional features that can run alongside your security system. These include remote monitoring and detailed analytics.

Keep your commercial building secure with Incognito Systems

When you’ve worked hard to reach the point of owning your own commercial property, there’s no point leaving its security to chance. At Incognito Systems, we have been providing businesses around the Northamptonshire area with premium security since 2017.

We pride ourselves on customer service, creating bespoke security systems to suit your business’ exact needs. We won’t try to sell you things you don’t want or need, just products that will keep your livelihood secure.

Contact us today to arrange a free, no-obligation quote.