5 Tips on Small Business Office Security

5 Tips on Small Business Office Security

A growing business often needs more office space, and with this new space comes excitement but also a storm of decisions, all of which will seriously affect your business down the road. You’ll need to make choices about your geographical location, rent, office layout, computer systems, and security.

Security is especially tough. No one wants to be vulnerable, but you don’t want to waste your hard-earned profits on needless gadgets. In cyber security, there’s a lot of assistance available in the way of hacking prevention, with lots of tips on which software provides good value and which practices are protective.

One security concern with less buzz but with no less magnitude is physical security, as low-security small businesses remain a target for local crime. Cyber-security is important, but it’s also important to stop opportunists or vengeful ex-employees from accessing your new office and causing mayhem.

Here are a few tips from a mobile locksmith company about the physical security of your office. Ultimately, only you can decide what is effective, but this list will help you make your decisions.

 

1. Utilize an Alarm System

Security systems, at their most basic, monitor your premises and alert the local police or security companies if they become activated. The technology is relatively old, but you can choose from a variety optional bells and whistles and different tiers of protection from alarm system companies.

Although some businesses which have sensitive information or valuable items should consider high-end alarms and add-ons, for most small brick-and-mortar businesses, simply having visible cameras and alarm systems will be enough to deter or stop crimes of opportunity.

 

2. Control Building Entry Digitally

Instead of managing keys or worrying about a master key, it’s best to install an electronic or digital lock which allows for passcode or fingerprint verification for entry. A locksmith can install these relatively simply, and you can use them to control access by time or individual to both the building itself and to sensitive areas inside the building.

 

3. Store Valuables and Cash in a Security Safe

If your business handles cash or valuables, it’s best to invest in a safe for them and your sensitive financial information. There’s a lot of variety on the market, but for most businesses, a mid-range fire-resistant model will suffice.  Be sure to regularly change the code and track who has access.

 

4. Install Closed-Circuit (CC) TV

Businesses in rough neighborhoods or those vulnerable to crimes of opportunity can mitigate their risk by installing CCTV. This allows you to monitor access from multiple angles. Basic CCTV is relatively cheap. Additionally, the cameras, like alarms, can be effective at deterring pre-planned crime. This is simply because you can install them in plain view. Investing in better cameras can increase the odds of culprit identification. However, for high-level risk management, it’s wise to hire an official to monitor the camera.

 

5. Institute Security Management Policies

Perhaps high-security systems like CCTV and keyless entry don’t fit the budget or the needs of your company. If that’s the case, achieve greater security by establishing clear policies for your employees.  Systematize the way you lock and unlock the office. Also, control who has access where and when. And finally, have a method for controlling the keys and know at all times who controls them.