Running a business in a straining economy is no easy task and business owners are looking for ways to cut costs and save.<\/p>\n
Security, however, should not be an area that is neglected or skimped on, is the belief of Theunis Kotze, general manager of ADT’s inland region.<\/p>
\u201cThe cost of security really needs to be weighed up against the value of what is being protected,” he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cMore often than not this not only includes the company\u2019s physical assets, but employees, too.<\/p>
\u201cInvesting in the correct solution and maintaining it on a regular basis makes good business sense.\u201d<\/p>\n
Small business security makes up a large portion of security solutions in South Africa and having the right fit for the size and requirements of the business is vital.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s always a good time to re-look at and reassess your business security needs and to ensure that what you have in place adequately meets those needs,\u201d Kotze said.<\/p>\n
Wear and tear on security systems is a reality and regular maintenance and upgrades are a necessity.<\/p>\n
As with any technical equipment, especially that which is exposed to the elements, there will be aging and wear and tear over time.<\/p>\n
It is best to address this in the form of regular maintenance of these systems.<\/p>\n
Even with regular maintenance, however, every couple of years parts will need to be replaced.<\/p>\n
\u201cWaiting until the system becomes faulty is not ideal,\u201d said Kotze.<\/p>\n
\u201cUnfortunately, we regularly encounter incidents at small businesses where a break-in has occurred and only then do business owners realise that their security system was not operating correctly.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith regular maintenance and testing, this can be avoided.\u201d<\/p>\n
He pointed out that criminals have become so brazen that physical security barriers and alarms alone are no longer the only deterrents that business owners should rely on.<\/p>\n
Entry methods have evolved from classic window breaking to criminals removing front doors completely.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen doors and windows pose too much of a challenge, they will enter through the roof,” Kotze said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve also experienced isolated incidents in which cement blocks in walls were removed so that criminals could gain entry.”<\/p>\n
He believes a multi-layered approach to safety is the best solution to protecting your business.<\/p>\n
\u201cEarly warning systems \u2013 such as electric fencing and outdoor detectors and beams – are valuable because they are able to detect intruders before damage is caused,” Kotze explained.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt also enables armed response to attend to incidents faster and increases the likelihood of apprehending suspects.<\/p>\n
\u201cCCTV has also become more affordable and, coupled with the internet and technologies like smart phones, small business owners can now keep an eye on their premises using remote-monitoring.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a good option to consider.\u201d<\/p>\n
He also recommended making contact with local community security organisations such as neighbourhood watches and the like.<\/p>\n
\u201cEspecially where small businesses are located in suburbs, keeping up to date with regular crime trends and crime prevention efforts is highly valuable,” Kotze said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis kind of information enables the small business owner to make informed decisions about security and reduces the risk of loss as a result of crime,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Equipping staff with panic buttons and access cards is another element that needs to be addressed and monitored closely.<\/p>\n
Kotze warned business owners not to become complacent about employees, especially those who may be leaving the business.<\/p>\n
\u201cEnsure that employees return keys, access codes and remotes to the property if they resign,” he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is also a good idea to change alarm and access codes from time to time.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf in doubt about whether your system is adequate call in a professional to assess your premises.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese experts will be able to identify any vulnerable areas and offer the best solutions.<\/p>\n
\u201cNow is a great time to get your security in order and ensure your business is well-protected throughout the year.\u201d<\/p>\n
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