Installing a security sy
stem can be one of the best ways to protect your business from unpredictable threats like fires and burglars. Did you know that not all systems are the same? That’s right there really isn’t a “one size fits all” solution when it comes to securing your workplace, nor should there be. Why? Because no two businesses are exactly the same. Therefore, doesn’t it make sense that a security system should be tailored to a facility’s individual needs? A healthcare facility wouldn’t have all the same security needs as a retail store, right? Right. So how do you go about finding the right system for your business? Your best option is to hire a licensed professional in the security system field who has extensive knowledge and experience. At Perfect Connections, Inc. our team has been customizing security system solutions for businesses throughout northern and central New Jersey for the past 23 years. We understand your business is unique and requires personal attention versus a one-stop solution.
As every home is different and each family has different security needs, the same is true for every business. There are many factors that go into creating the right system for your facility. For example the location and demographics, local fire codes and regulations, facility size and type, building/facility access, number of employees, local restrictions, and more. A business in the middle of a city is going to need a different security system than one located in an industrial park in the suburbs. This is why it is vital to have a security systems expert do an in person assessment of your facility’s needs before pricing becomes part of the equation. Don’t fall for the security system company that says they can give you a quote without ever having stepped foot in your facility.
What are the main ingredients for a security system? At Perfect Connections, Inc. it is our belief that any comprehensive security system includes fire alarms, burglar alarms, access control, surveillance, a monitoring service, and carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. There are variations on how some of these components are installed and what products are used. For example there are many different forms of access control. Access control can be anything from biometrics-which typically analyzes physical human traits like a fingerprint-to smart card readers that require a swipe or tap of a programmed card or fob.
Again, the type of access control that would suit your business best, really depends on what your specific needs are. Maybe you run a healthcare facility where only certain employees are allowed to access medication supply rooms. Maybe the best solution in that situation is issuing swipe cards to those specific individuals, or maybe a coded lock would work better. These are the types of things you want to discuss with your security systems expert. They will be able to advise you on what system would work best.
Monitoring your alarm system can be varied as well. While it’s pretty standard to sign a contract with a monitoring service, there is the option to self-monitor as well. Self-monitoring works by allowing you to access your security system via a smartphone or mobile device. This type of monitoring could be set up to alert you directly if there is any activity detected at your facility. The disadvantage to a solely self-monitored system is a slower reaction time and having to constantly be vigilant. Imagine you don’t have your phone on you and an alarm is triggered at your facility, who’s going to contact the local authorities? Fortunately, with a monitoring service you don’t have to worry about reaction time because someone is constantly keeping watch. Even if you opt for a monitoring service often times you can still have the ability to self-monitor at your convenience. The combination of both gives you the advantage of not having to worry about checking in constantly and the convenience of doing so when you need/want it.
Surveillance is a key component to protecting any business. How surveillance equipment is set up will vary business to business. Some facilities may require more or less coverage than others. Some businesses may be at a higher risk for crime or theft than others as well. For example Plato’s Closet in Des Moines, IA is susceptible to shrinkage due to clothing, shoe, and accessory theft. This particular location of Plato’s Closet had a shrink rate of a little over 1 percent, but after they installed 19 IP (Internet Protocol) cameras that rate fell to .8 percent. The quantity, type, and location of surveillance cameras will depend on an individual business’s needs.
Whether you run a recycling, retail, or healthcare facility protecting your business is a top priority that shouldn’t be left to just anyone. You need a licensed security systems expert who will assess the risks associated with your business and customize an appropriate solution. Our team of licensed professionals at Perfect Connections, Inc. understands you’ve worked hard for what you have and we want to help you keep it secure. We have been providing customized security system solutions to businesses throughout northern and central New Jersey since 1992 helping you connect and protect what matters most.
If you live or run a business in Central or Northern New Jersey and would like information on any of the topics discussed above, please call 800-369-3962 or simply CLICK HERE.
Image Credit: Image by Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s photostream-Flickr-Creative Commons
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