Having strong physical security is really important for businesses, especially if they put perimeter security measures in place as a priority. However, once the perimeter security is installed, it is not finished. Maintaining perimeter security to ensure it remains fit for purpose is an ongoing process that goes way beyond the initial installation. Here, we discuss the importance of maintaining perimeter security.
Once your business has invested in high quality, robust perimeter and other forms of physical security, it can be easy to think the job has done. However, if the security is not regularly maintained, it can cause significant problems down the line.
In order to ensure that the security remains as strong as possible, it is important to carry out regular site audits. These audits tend to be carried out on foot and explores all the possible risks.
During these on foot inspections, issues can easily be spotted. Although a business may be active in keeping their security maintained, there are some elements that will be out of their control but could jeopardise their security. For example, weather damage can be a common cause of security damage as overtime corrosion can take place or cracks can occur.
Before gates, barriers and turnstile are installed, they will, of course, go through significant testing to ensure they are sturdy and provide sufficient security. However, as with anything, over time the quality can slowly diminish if it is not maintained with care.
Every now and then, businesses should get all of their security inspected. This inspection will include checking the equipment in detail, testing it robustly and repairing where possible. All of these actions will help ensure that the security lasts for much longer whilst providing the same level of protection until the next inspection takes place.
By inspecting regularly, businesses can avoid unexpected faults which can cause larger problems. Although there are costs associated with inspecting and repairing, these costs can be significantly lower than those companies may incur if they do not maintain their security at all.
It is also vital to have security in the best possible condition to comply with a business’ insurance. If security is lax due to not taking enough care maintaining the quality of the security could lead to any future insurance claims being denied.
It is important to recognise that installing perimeter security is not enough. Not only should a layered security approach be taken and mix perimeter security with other forms of physical security such as access control equipment and CCTV, it is just as vital to maintain perimeter security. If businesses fail to do so, they could end up with repair issues that are expensive to fix, or, worst-case scenario, end up with significant security breaches which will be even more costly in the long run.
Perimeter security is the first line of defence for many companies. Therefore, if this is not maintained at a high standard, it can compromise the rest of the security system and not only put the company’s building and contents at risk, it can also lead to potential dangers to staff. It is imperative to choose someone who is qualified to carry out these inspections on the businesses behalf.
Gateway Automation is proud to not only offer manufacturing and installation of perimeter security systems but also offer a range of servicing and repairs to clients to ensure their security remains as strong as possible.
What's Next?
For more information on how Gateway Automation can help keep your premises secure, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.
Maintaining Perimeter Security- Why it is important
University Campus Security Challenges
University campus security can be a difficult challenge to overcome. With hundreds of students coming and going around campus, it is crucial that sufficient security measures are in place. Here we discuss some of the best ways to approach campus security challenges and what measures should be enforced.
STEP 1: Define the problem & Identify Potential Issues
Before investing in more security solutions, it is of upmost importance that all potential threats are considered. The region and demographics of the campus and threat type should be considered. Identify the trends you are experiencing before thinking about which security measures will be best for each of them.
STEP 2: Implement Security Measures
Here are just some of the methods which have proven to be successful for improving university campus security. Use the information you have collated from step one to tackle the campuses specific problems and risks.
• Access Control- Using access control has been proven to be an effective form of security on campus. Each student usually has an ID badge which provides them access to specific buildings. These not only help identify students, they can provide a sense of protection. An electronic visitor management system should also be considered to keep track of all visitors and people on campus.
• Turnstiles-Turnstiles can be extremely effective, especially when teamed up with access control equipment. Having these together, can stop the risk of tailgating and help ensure that only authorised people can enter.
• Bollards- Bollards can successfully protect both vulnerable buildings from damage but also protect pedestrians. Having bollards strategically located throughout the campus can help reduce the risk of accidents from vehicles as they do not allow cars to enter and helps indicate to students and staff where the designated pedestrian areas are with ease.
• Sufficient Lighting- There have been many studies that highlight the importance of lighting as a security measure. Not only does sufficient lighting automatically make people feel safer, but the light also helps identify any criminals or potential criminals more easily when caught on CCTV and can help act as a deterrent.
• Barriers- Barriers at the entrances of University campuses can be extremely effective. Especially if they are teamed up with manned security. Having these measures in place from the beginning helps ensure the correct people are let on to campus.
• Training Courses- Although all the measures mentioned above can be successful, it is crucial that everyone is aware of these security measures and understand the importance of them. Therefore students and staff alike should have security training courses if possible to help them stay safe as well.
STEP 3: Measure effectiveness and continue to measure and adapt
Once you have adopted a strategy the work has not finished. To ensure that it will continue to be effective you must measure the results. If the results are negative, amend your strategy accordingly. Building a university campus that is as safe as possible is a continuous process and will always be adapting and changing.
Here we have discussed the steps needed to approach campus security challenges. A combination of security measures will ensure a 360 holistic security approach that can be extremely robust. However, the important thing to remember is to always measure the impact these security methods have and change and amend wherever necessary.
What's Next?
To find out more about how security can be used successfully on an University campus , please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.
Securing Building Sites- Using Physical Security
Securing building sites is a hot topic in the construction industry. Building sites are a common target for vandals and thieves. They can be targets for homeless people as well as kids who view building sites as an adventure playground. It is because of these potential intruders that construction companies must ensure that building sites are as secure as they can be.
Here, we discuss the best ways to achieve this.
Install Perimeter Security
Installing perimeter security is one of the easiest and most effective ways of securing building sites. Ensure any fences or gates are sufficiently high enough to make it difficult for people to climb over. Also ensure there are no gaps beneath the barriers, fences and gates to avoid anyone crawling underneath.
Keep entrances to a minimum
Building sites are easy targets to thieves as it can be difficult to keep track of visitors and contractors. Maintain control over who is entering and exiting the site by limiting the number of entrances and exits.
Install CCTV
Although installing cameras can be expensive, they can be very effective and means that site managers always have visibility of the site. Always post signs when CCTV is in operation. It informs people that they are on camera but also acts as a secondary deterrent if the message is reinforced through clear signs.
Layer security with signage
Although extremely low cost, having signage that is prominent around the site can be extremely effective and adds another layer of security. Even though the signs alone do not prohibit unauthorised personnel, they have been proven to be an effective deterrent. They can be a weak form of security when used alone, but placing them together with other forms of security can help to secure a building site.
Use security lighting
Wherever possible, use security lighting to deter anyone from entering. The security lights are motion censored and can deter people from entering, especially at night time. If any intruders successfully enter the premises, the security lighting can help them be identified.
Consider manned security
Lighting may not always be an option. However, if your building site is in a high-risk area, consider manned security. They can carry out regular patrols to limit any attempted arson, theft or vandalism. Alarm systems could be used instead of or alongside managed security to increase the protection even further. You can choose between loud alarms, designed to shock the intruder or a silent alarm that will contact the police.
Supervise Visitors
It is imperative that all visitors to the building site are supervised at all times. They should be provided with the appropriate safety gear such as hard hats and high-vis jackets.
Organise construction site carefully
Time needs to be spent to ensure the building site remains safe and secure at all times. Stack any building materials safely and not too high to avoid the risk of toppling over. Immobilise all vehicles and always remove the keys from all equipment. Hide as much out of site as possible and secure any substances that may be hazardous. These measures will protect your site from theft and also help reduce the risk of any injuries occurring.
Not only can weak security lead to theft or vandalism which can cause businesses insurance claim headaches. It can cause potential delays to a project and can even cause injury. Regardless of the size of the project, securing building sites should be a top priority for all construction companies. By layering physical and perimeter security, they can have peace of mind that their property remains as safe and secure as possible. By taking these appropriate steps, the risk of damage, loss and injury can be significantly reduced.
What's Next?
To find out more about how physical security can benefit your business, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.
The Importance of Physical Security in the Workplace
Physical security in the workplace is vital for all businesses. However, it can be something that many organisations overlook. An attacker can easily gain access to the premises and assets if the security is weak. Protecting confidential information, assets, facilities and employees should be at the top of a business owners concerns.
Here we discuss the importance of physical security in the workplace.
Helps with cybersecurity
Technology continues to become a vital part of day to day life. It is common for businesses to prioritise securing the technical side of the business. Installing firewalls and other cyber-security methods are typical cyber-security methods. Although cyber-security is vital, it should not take priority over physical security. Cyber-security helps to prevent data theft using firewalls and security protocols. However, an insecure building can also be a cause of data loss. Both security types compliment each other.
If it vital that physical security is prioritised, if only to boost the effectiveness of the cyber-security methods.
Protects against theft
Using physical security can help reduce theft. Ensure that gates and barriers are used wherever possible to ensure only authorised personnel have access to staff car parks. These measures will significantly reduce the threat of car theft. You should also implement access control equipment to help protect both your businesses assets but also your staff’s personal possessions. Having these methods in action will reduce office disputes and create a better, safe and good working environment.
Makes you get the most out of your employees
Providing a safe and secure work environment is important for existing employees but will also attract future employees. Knowing that their possessions are safe on the premises is vital for good productivity and a happy workforce. Employees are a businesses greatest assets as without them, the company would not function. Therefore, to ensure employees feel safe whilst at work, actions should be taken.
In addition to this, strong security practices and a safe working environment can lead to lower employee absenteeism.
Helps prevent vandalism and arson
Businesses can often prioritise the security of company assets. However, it is easy to implement physical security aimed at deterring property vandalism. Barriers, gates and security guards can all help stop uninvited people entering the premises. Investing in surveillance cameras, exterior lighting and signage can all help deter potential vandals and intruders.
Protects you from some unnecessary costs
A physical security strategy should also cover other business assets. This includes equipment, files and hardware. By including all assets in the strategy a business can protect itself from unnecessary costs and downtime.
Installing physical security measures may involve a significant initial investment. However, when carried out well, the strategy can save a company thousands in the long term. There are potential huge financial implications associate with a poor physical security strategy.
The initial costs of implementing a strong physical security strategy can be significant. This can be overwhelming to some business owners. Making this investment can be extremely advantageous to both the business and employees alike. Not only does it provide a safe environment, but it can also help reduce insurance, resulting in further cost savings.
What's Next?
These are just some reasons that highlight the importance of physical security in the workplace. To find out more about how physical security can benefit your business, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.
Physical Security Practices- 5 Top Tips for Businesses
Physical security practices in the workplace is a huge topic. but where does the cautious business owner start?
Health and safety of all employees should be a key priority for all businesses. Physical security measures can be implemented to ensure staff are kept safe in the workplace. Not only can these physical security processes keep employees safe, they protect any visitors as well as company assets.
Here, we discuss 5 forms of physical security practices that every business should implement.
Visitor Management
Businesses often welcome visitors to their business site as part of day-to-day activity. However there should be a plan to ensure that these external visitors do not compromise security. Using a digital login system can help ensure your staff and business remain protected.
Physical Security Assessments
You might already have a robust physical security strategy in place, many businesses do. However, any good strategy should be regularly checked as things can change. Having regular assessments can help continually identify potential areas of weakness. These areas of weakness identify improvements to your physical security. Ideally, a physical security assessment should take place annually or bi-annually. It is easy to become complacent once you have a strong strategy in place which can lead to future problems.
Strong Access Control
Access control methods ensure that you have full control over who is entering your building, or a specific part of the building. It is vital that you use access control for critical areas such as server rooms. Limiting access to sensitive areas will reduce the likelihood of theft or vandalism. Introduce the use of proximity cards and turnstiles to ensure only authorised people enter the building. PIN entry systems can be extremely effective. The use of bio-metrics can make this methods even more robust, for example, using a fingerprint or retina scanner.
Secure from the outside- in
If you do not know where to begin your physical security plan, start by securing the outside of your building and working inward. This is even more important if you are located in an area with high crime rate. Start simple with gates, barriers and turnstiles. Also consider exterior lighting, surveillance and signage. Although these methods may seem simple, they can have a strong impact and be effective on deterring criminals.
Sufficient Employee Training
Physical security is only as strong as the weakest link. The weakest link, however, is often the staff. Maintain security communications and training to ensure all staff are aware of procedures. This could sometimes involve a whole company culture shift. It can also take time to educate staff and develop a security mindset. However, once it is in place, your physical security strategy will be more effective.
Management teams should train their existing and new staff by implementing security training security policies. Ensure staff know that there will be consequences if these policies are ignored. Management should lead by example for security campaigns to work effectively. Changes to required behaviour should be natural for the staff to adhere to and encourage them to report any suspicious behaviour.
This list is not exhaustive as there are a lot of other physical security practices that could be put in place; however, these are a good place to start. Also, security involves an upfront cost, the peace of mind and protection they provide is worth a lot more. Regardless of the size of the business, a strong physical security strategy must be put in place.
To find out more about how to protect empty commercial property with physical security, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.Data Centre Security- 11 Ways To Secure Data Centres
The term data centre security conjures images of lines of code, hackers and firewalls. However, there is a huge requirement for physical security within a data centre too.
Data centres are used to house computer systems. They often include backup data, core data, replicated data and on the whole, are huge part of an organisation's Disaster Recovery Strategy.
In a world where technology impacts many industries, data centres are crucial for businesses and therefore data centres security is a hot topic. Not only should data be protected from potential cyber-attacks, the physical building should be secure.
Cyber security focuses on the prevention of data theft or destruction by malicious attacks; however, this is not enough to ensure your data centre remains safe. The building also has to be protected from physical attacks.
Here, we discuss 11 ways you can physically secure data centres.
1. Use Crash Barriers
Stop unauthorised vehicle entry with the installation of road blockers. These have been designed specifically to prevent the threat of potential intruders or terrorist attacks in high-security areas. Varying in height, these road blockers will restrict the entry of vehicles.
2. Use Bollards
Avoid anything impacting and colliding into the building by installing bollards. Install permanent bollards around the building entrances. Alternatively, you could install adjustable bollards that can be lowered to allow access to authorized vehicles.
3. Limit Entry Points
Where possible, try and limit the possible entry points to only one door. If you require additional fire doors, ensure these extra doors are exit only. Limit exterior door handles to prevent any re-entry.
4. Use Security Cameras
Surveillance cameras should be installed throughout the perimeter of the data centre. Consider installing adequate CCTV signage as this can be a physical deterrent.
5. Hire On-Site Security
Threats can happen at any time. You may consider an additional layer of physical security by hiring on-site staff. Having someone monitoring the site acts as a strong deterrent to intruders and can raise the alarm if they spot any potential issues.
6. Build The Data Centre In The Best Location
Plan the best location for your data centre. If possible, choose a location away from the company’s head office or headquarters.
Ensure the data centre is set back from the main road. Consider using landscaping to help form additional protection as trees can help obscure the building from passers-by. Avoid building data centres in locations that are prone to natural disasters such as in a flood area or an area prone to earthquakes or fires.
7. Plan The Data Centre Carefully
When you design a data centre, avoid unnecessary windows. Build walls that are extremely thick as they work an effective barrier as well as improving thermal insulation.
8. Embrace Biometric Technology
Biometric technology is increasingly popular and is now part of our every day lives. Install biometric identification systems in the building to control access. This is often a fingerprint recognition device. In addition to biometric technology, ensure multi-factor authentication is in place. This method utilises two or more authentication methods. For example, someone may use their fingerprint but will still need to type in a pin code or show an access card.
9. Install Barriers and Gates
Perimeter security is also vital. Have strong fencing around your entire site. Ensure the gates and barriers are placed where surveillance equipment, a guard, or preferably both are in place. Also, use barriers to control which vehicles enter the premises.
10. Use Access Control Equipment
Data centres should adopt a Zero Trust Network. This means that no one is trusted until they can prove who they are. Access control equipment is an important element of implementing this.
While it may seem simple, access lists should also be provided to ensure that only approved individuals can access data centre. Ensure these lists are kept up to date and are stored securely.
11. Install a Sophisticated Alarm System
Alarm systems are costly. However, these costs are outweighed by the potential benefits. Some systems are linked to local police stations or security companies. Others are silent, but trigger alerts to key staff. Whatever the system you choose, it will bring peace of mind.
People value physical security. They trust places that are secure when they can actually see forms of security such as gates, barriers and alarm systems.
Many companies may forget about the physical form of security when it comes to data centres as they are concentrating on the risk of cyber threats. Although cybersecurity is vital and needs to be as sophisticated as possible, teaming this up with physical security can ensure your data centre is as secure as it can be.
As data centres evolve in the future, the need for physical measures will remain vital. However, physical security measures may also evolve. Having a multi-layer approach that considers both physical and cyber elements will ensure the best protection.
To find out more about how data centres can be secured using physical security, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.
Securing Empty Property- Commercial Space
Securing empty property can often feel like a waste of money. There's nothing inside to steal. However, leaving a commercial property vacant for any length of time can be risky. Whether you are having the property renovated or waiting for new occupants, there are some common risks and security measures that you should be aware of.
Here is our guide to securing empty property to ensure your investment remains secure.
1. Reduce Theft
Theft is a main threat for any commercial building left unoccupied. Even if you believe there is nothing to take as the building is empty, there are still many valuable items that thieves tend to target from commercial buildings. Stealing metal-based items for scrap is popular with thieves as lead from roofs, aluminium from heating ducts or copper from wiring can be valuable. Even radiators are regularly stolen as they are often easy to remove from the wall and can be sold on for a good price. Opportunist thieves will not be deterred by a building with little content.
It is not just the stolen materials that commercial property owners need to be concerned about. The theft of these items can lead to damage of the building which will lead to additional costs and potentially more severe issues in the future. For example, removing piping and radiators can lead to leaks, water damage or even pest problems whereas removing the lead from roofs can leave holes in the roof which again could lead to water damage or weather damage. Anything removed from the electrics will also increase the risk of gas leaks or risk of fire.
Although the level of metal theft is decreasing due to legislation updates making it more difficult to sell on metal, it is still a real concern property owners need to be aware of when securing empty property.
2. Stop Arson
Arson is dangerous as not only can it cause significant damage to your property, it can lead to others getting injured as well, especially if there are flammable materials still in the building. It can also quickly spread to surrounding properties and impact other businesses.
If a fire broke out and somebody was injured there may be an investigation into the landlord's negligence.
Fire should be a concern for any owner looking into securing their empty property.
3. Stop Anti-Social Behaviour
Individuals sometimes break into vacant properties in order to deliberately vandalise the building through graffiti. Although it is relatively easy and cheap to remove it, it doesn’t give off a good image and can lead to other forms of antisocial behaviour. It can also encourage more people to graffiti if some is already visible as it shows that the building is accessible.
Unfortunately, empty commercial buildings can tempt people to use them for a range of anti-social behaviours. From drug use to a temporary toilet, fly-tipping or even dogfighting, the list goes on. Activities like these can quickly cause damage to your property but also impact the surrounding environment and buildings. It can even lead to significant health hazards that you need to be conscious of. Although it is not you that has caused any mess, you will be liable to ensure it is cleaned.
4. Puts an End to Squatting
The law changed in 2012 for squatters of residential properties which made squatting illegal. However, the same rules do not apply for commercial properties. Squatters are defined as people who occupy a property without permission. It remains illegal for people to break into a building, however, if squatters have managed to access the vacant building without causing damage to do so, you will be faced with an even bigger problem. Police can only intervene if damage has occurred.
It is possible to get squatters evicted; however, the process is time-consuming and expensive. In order for it to be done, you would have to go through the civil court system, not the criminal court. This process can be extremely drawn out. During this time, the squatters could be causing damage to your property.
Also consider the land around your property. Illegal occupation can also apply to any land that you own. Some business owners have found travellers on their property.
5. Attract New Business
Having a well-secured commercial property improves the professional appearance. High-security levels can lead to a higher interest in your property. Having a property with broken windows, clear structural damage or graffiti will deter potential tenants.
6. Switch Off Your Utilities
Protect your business by removing anything of potential value. Switch off your gas, electricity and water when the property becomes vacant. This can limit the risk of fires or leaks. Also, prevent access through doors, windows and roofs using boarding. Consider having physical security patrol the building as well as gates and barriers. The more deterrents you implement the better. Plus, having physical security measures as well as CCTV can make a vacant building appear occupied which will be a physical deterrent.
7. Secure all Entry Points to Your Building
To reduce the risk of arson consider boarding up the building with steel screens rather than timber boarding which is flammable.
As a commercial property owner, you have a Duty of Care for anyone entering your property, regardless if you invited them or not. Any injury a person may incur whilst on your property will be your responsibility and increase your liability.
Be proactive as much as possible. Assessing your situation and gain specialist advice.
8. Consider Installing Access Control Systems as an Added Layer of Security
Undertake a health and safety and risk inspection by a professional to gain a full understanding of the risks you need to avoid. Inspect your property on a regular basis. Insurance companies will often want you to check your property at least once a week.
9. Use Perimeter Security around your Plot of Land
Ensure unauthorised vehicles do not access your land by implementing flow plates, barriers or bollards.
Although there will be a cost to protecting an securing empty property, the potential cost saving could be significant. It also gives you the peace of mind that your investment remains as secure as possible at all times.
To find out more about how to protect empty commercial property with physical security, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.