Robberies and break-ins have increased in the past few years, leading many business and property owners to improve their building security. But what procedures can you implement to ensure the safety and security of your facility? Follow this guide to learn more about improving facility security to keep your employees and property safe.
Why Is Building Security Important?
Building security is paramount for businesses and residents, serving as a critical safeguard against many threats.
In commercial settings, protecting employees, valuable assets, and sensitive information is the highest priority. Robust security measures deter criminal activities such as theft and vandalism, instilling a sense of safety and fostering a conducive environment for business operations. Additionally, compliance with industry regulations and standards often requires stringent security protocols.
On the residential front, security measures ensure the safety of individuals and their personal belongings. They provide a sense of peace and privacy, contributing to the overall well-being of residents.
In both cases, effective building security measures contribute to community safety. Investing in building security is an investment in protecting people, assets, and the overall stability of communities.
How to Improve Your Building Security
With commercial robbery increasing over the last few years, building security is more important than ever. As criminals adapt to new building security technology, you might feel like there’s no security system that can keep them out—but that’s not true.
Several advanced security systems can improve your building‘s safety and keep trespassers out, including:
Video Surveillance
Video surveillance is one of the most effective ways to enhance your building security system. Outdoor cameras deter crime by nearly 50%, and they’re customizable to your building.
Innovative features include:
- Indoor and outdoor cameras
- Live monitoring
- Snapshot imaging
- Video reporting
- CCTV integration
CCTV
CCTV, or closed-circuit television, is a versatile type of commercial video surveillance. This system consists of strategically placed cameras that monitor your building around the clock.
Some CCTV systems have motion detectors that record when someone is in the frame. They offer real-time viewing of your facility and enhance your safety and security. Many building owners and facility managers prefer CCTV monitoring over other commercial surveillance systems since it provides real-time video you can use as evidence.
Looking for superior commercial surveillance solutions?
Monitored surveillance is one of the most effective commercial security systems, as it deters criminals from attempting to trespass in the first place. Discover how commercial surveillance systems from Paramount Companies can bolster your building security.
Building Access Control Systems
Building access control systems (BAC) are advanced building security systems that grant limited access to people based on their roles or capabilities. Many BAC systems function with access cards, fingerprints, or security codes.
If you don’t have an access card or don’t know the code, you cannot access the building, making break-ins more difficult. BAC is customized based on your facility’s scale and needs, and there are several options available:
- Discretionary Access Control: DAC is the least restrictive type of BAC system. A small number of individuals, like executives or your HR staff, control the system. This group of people grants and restricts access to different areas of your building.
- Mandatory Access Control: One person controls MAC, like a Chief Security Officer or HR president. This designated individual grants and limits access to the entire building, tightening your security since only one person can change the restrictions.
- Role-Based Access Control: RAC is the only automated BAC system. Instead of manually letting people inside, an employee’s role determines their access level. Entry-level employees can access their building and floor, while higher-level executives can access all floors, rooms, and facilities.
Security Systems
BAC systems aren’t the only type of advanced building security solution. Graphical user interface (GUI) maps display lighted access control points. These maps tell administrators who is in what part of the building and come with several custom capabilities, like snapshot imaging, live monitoring, and more.
Additionally, live report screens connect with your CCTV system. They have the same capabilities as a GUI map, but you can integrate them with your current surveillance system.
Commercial Door Security Hardware
High-quality commercial door security hardware significantly enhances a building’s security. These security doors include robust features such as:
- Commercial locks
- Access control systems
- Keypads and keycards
- Biometric scanners
- Camera and facial recognition
- Intercom systems
- Reinforced door frames
These features thwart unauthorized access attempts. Commercial door hardware safeguards valuable assets and sensitive information, fostering a sense of safety for occupants. Advanced hardware fortifies entry points against threats, providing peace of mind for both owners and occupants.
Building Security Best Practices
Follow these building security best practices to keep your business safe and secure:
- Don’t share access cards: To enhance building security, it is crucial not to share access cards. This way, you maintain control over entry points and limit access to authorized personnel only.
- Inform employees of your security procedures: Informing employees about security procedures is imperative so they are well-acquainted with protocols and can actively contribute to a secure environment.
- Don’t let strangers in with your access card or fingerprint: Don’t compromise security by allowing strangers entry with your access card or fingerprint. It’s essential to preserve the integrity of your access control systems.
- Regularly check your cameras: Regularly checking surveillance cameras is a fundamental practice that allows you to promptly identify and respond to security threats.
- Always set alarm systems: An essential building security best practice is always setting alarm systems. This is a reliable deterrent and provides an immediate alert in the event of unauthorized access or suspicious activities.
- Consistently update your security system: Consistently updating the security system is essential to address evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
By keeping up with these best practices, you can strengthen both commercial and residential security measures to protect employees and guests. If you’re looking for a reliable professional to minimize security risks, turn to Paramount Companies.
Enhance Your Building Security With Paramount Companies
Paramount Companies installs and maintains high-quality building security systems for businesses in the St. Louis area. Our commercial security solutions protect your building from theft, vandalism, and other crimes.
Let us improve your facility security with our advanced solutions, including BAC systems and surveillance cameras. Contact us today to find the building security solution that works for your business.
