7 tips for essential office security

According to Business Matters Magazine, a robbery happens in the UK every 38 seconds. In most cases crime does not discriminate and British businesses are as at risk as anyone else from losing important equipment to theft, so you need to look at your essential office security.

Most robberies are crimes of opportunity, so provided your office is secure you stand a good chance of avoiding any such incident. Here are some things to consider if you for essential office security.

Windows and doors

Any office windows which are on the ground floor are an absolute priority. These should be secured shut out of office hours. Nominate a colleague to check every day, as it only takes one moment of forgetfulness to lose valuable company money and time.

Your window and door locks should be durable and high quality, and not susceptible to an expert lock picker. You may even consider using an electronic door lock in the office, accessed only by key cards given to members of staff to boost security.

CCTV

There are government guidelines for business owners to consider when purchasing CCTV equipment, and privacy and security issues to consider before you make the decision on whether or not to buy. You are required to show justification and that the footage recorded will be used responsibly and sparingly.

Setting up CCTV cameras around your office can help track down any perpetrators as well as deter any would-be thieves in future. They can be very expensive but in terms of office security can prove invaluable in protecting your office.

Lighting

Even something as simple as lighting can act as a deterrent to thieves. A brightly-lit office can ensure that there are no hiding places, and increases the visibility of your office equipment.

Alarms

The innovations in home and office security now mean that, should an alarm be raised at your location, it’ll do more than just hopefully scare off the burglar. Companies like ADT can send an instant response team to the location to help out where needed.

Safes

Investing in a strong safe can prevent the loss of your most valuable office belongings, and could also be used to store sensitive client data.

Software

According to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills 60% of small businesses have suffered an information security breach and lost valuable time, money and resources trying to plug the vulnerability. They have also stated that one in six businesses are not confident they’ll have adequate skills to manage the potential risks within the next year. Ensure that all office computers are kitted out with antivirus and firewall software in order to prevent such cyber-attacks.

Post-break in actions checklist

If your office has been the victim of a robbery, the following checklist will help you take immediate steps to tighten up office security against future threats:

• Employee background checks – though you are very trusting of your colleagues it may be worth refreshing your information on new members of staff
• Tell your clients – any setbacks to deadlines, reports and invoices caused as a result of the robbery will need to be reported
• Stock check – are you sure that you’ve got a full list of what has been taken?
• ID tags – use DNA spray or UV pens to write owners’ names on their possessions
• Inform your bank – if any false charges are made to the company account they’ll be able to help you with inquiries.

There you have it 7 tips for essential office security.