Threats to commercial properties are unpredictable and varied. That makes a robust commercial property security system essential as a first line of defense against threats that can compromise the safety of individuals, the integrity of assets, and the continuity of operations.
A robust physical security system can help deter unauthorized access, protect against theft and damage, and ensure the well-being of people. Without adequate physical security measures, commercial properties are vulnerable to a range of risks, from physical breaches to cybersecurity issues that can lead to significant financial, reputational, and legal consequences.
This all makes the resilience and reliability of their security systems so critical. Ensuring the integrity of these systems is not just about being reactive. It’s also about adopting a proactive stance that provides peace of mind and helps guarantee that security measures remain operational, even when faced with unexpected disruptions.
How to Create a Resilient Security System
There are several key elements that help create a security system that can remain intact in the face of challenges. These include:
- Layered security
- Diverse technologies
- Redundant systems
- Regular maintenance and testing
- Emergency protocols
- Scalability
- Integration with other systems
- Remote monitoring and control
Layered Security
A layered security system can provide a more comprehensive approach to helping protect valuable assets. It involves implementing several overlapping security measures that can act as a strong deterrent to potential intruders. The idea is that if one layer is compromised, then others remain functional to help reduce the property’s vulnerability.
There are various components of a layered security system that can include:
- Perimeter security – such as fences, gates and walls
- Access control – to manage entry to the property as well as sensitive areas within it
- Lighting – important for visibility and safety
- Video surveillance with remote monitoring – to help catch intruders and other unwanted activity before damage can happen
Diverse Technologies
Using a variety of security technologies in a commercial property security solution can help mitigate the risk of complete system failure. For instance, combining traditional lock-and-key access with modern surveillance technologies can help make sure that if one system is compromised, the other still provides security. While traditional methods provide proven reliability, modern technologies offer advanced features like improved access control and real-time monitoring that can add layers of intelligence to the security infrastructure.
Redundant System
In the context of security, redundancy means having backup systems or components in place to make sure the commercial property is always protected, no matter what happens. For example, installing multiple surveillance cameras in key areas can help ensure that if one camera fails, others can continue monitoring. Similarly, a remote video monitoring company that uses more than one monitoring center ensures that if something happens to one center, like a power outage, another center can continue monitoring.
This approach is crucial for helping to always maintain a high level of security. It addresses the risks of single points of failure, which could otherwise render the entire security apparatus ineffective.
Regular Maintenance and Testing
Regularly scheduled maintenance checks are crucial for identifying and fixing potential issues before they escalate into serious vulnerabilities. A tailored system health-checking program can conduct thorough analyses of cameras, NVRs, hard drives, and internet capabilities, among other critical on-site equipment. This proactive strategy not only helps identify potential issues before they become problematic but also helps to maintain continuous operation. The goal is to preemptively address any weaknesses and avoid finding out about a malfunction after an incident has occurred.
Emergency Protocol
Having well-defined emergency response plans is crucial. This involves procedures for handling different types of security incidents, such as break-ins, fire alarms, or system failures. The presence of clearly defined emergency protocols enhances the resilience of the security system by ensuring that there is a structured and efficient response to any incident, thereby minimizing confusion, reducing response time, and mitigating potential damage or loss.
In terms of redundancy, emergency protocols often include backup plans in case the primary response is not feasible. For example, if the main evacuation route is blocked during a fire, an alternative route should be predetermined and communicated to all occupants. Similarly, backup communication methods, such as two-way radios or emergency alert systems, ensure that critical information is relayed even if standard communication channels fail.
Emergency protocols should not be static. They should be reviewed and updated at least once a year to ensure they stay effective and relevant. This may involve revising procedures to address new threats, conducting regular drills to train staff and occupants on how to respond to emergencies, and updating contact lists for emergency services and key personnel.
Scalability
Scalability in a commercial property security system is important for maintaining resilience and redundancy over time. A scalable system is designed to adapt and evolve as the needs of the property change. This could be because of property expansions, technological advancements, or evolving threats. This adaptability is crucial to help ensure that the security system remains effective and relevant, regardless of how the property or external conditions change.
In a modular system, components can be easily added, removed, or upgraded without needing to overhaul the entire security infrastructure. For instance, if a property expands, additional surveillance cameras or access control points can be integrated into the existing system. Similarly, as new security technologies emerge, older components can be replaced with newer, more advanced options.
Integration with Other Systems
Integrating the security system with other building management systems can help enhance its overall functionality. This integration can create a cohesive network where various systems, such as security, fire alarms, HVAC, and lighting, communicate and work in tandem. Such a unified system can enhance overall functionality, leading to more efficient and effective management of the property.
When security systems are linked with other building management systems, they can respond more intelligently to a range of scenarios. This is crucial for timely emergency services dispatch and for guiding evacuation efforts to help mitigate potential damage and ensure occupant safety.
Integration between building systems can offer backup capabilities in case of failures. For example, in the event of a power supply issue with one system, it could potentially draw power from other building systems to remain operational. Additionally, integrated communication networks can help ensure that critical alerts and messages are disseminated even if one system’s communication channel fails.
Remote Video Monitoring
Remote video monitoring is a critical component of a resilient and redundant commercial property security system. It can improve the system’s flexibility and responsiveness, allowing security personnel to monitor the property’s security from any location. This is especially valuable in today’s world, where immediate responses to security incidents are crucial.
The core benefit of remote video monitoring is the ability to watch a property from anywhere, at any time. This means that security professionals can watch for unusual activity in real time and quickly assess the situation. This can enable a more rapid and informed response.
Stealth has six dedicated monitoring centers to help ensure there is always a team actively monitoring surveillance feeds. The redundancy aspect of having multiple monitoring centers helps ensure there is no lapse in surveillance coverage. In the unlikely event that one center becomes inoperable due to technical issues, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances, the other centers can seamlessly take over the monitoring responsibilities.
In addition, Stealth has backups of surveillance data so critical surveillance footage can be preserved and accessed for investigation and analysis.
The resilience and redundancy of commercial property security systems are not luxuries. They are necessities in today’s unpredictable environment. By prioritizing regular health checks and building redundancy into every layer of the security network, commercial property owners and managers can help ensure that their assets are continuously monitored and protected to provide a sense of security and operational confidence.
To learn more about how ECAM can help create a resilient and redundant commercial property security solution for you, contact us today.
Texas Private Security License Number: B14187
California Alarm Operator License Number: ACO7876
Florida Alarm System Contractor I License Number: EF20001598
Tennessee Alarm Contracting Company License Number: 2294
Virginia Private Security Services Business License Number: 11-19499
Alabama Electronic Security License # 002116
Canada TSBC License: LEL0200704
