Smart security is similar to any modern technology – it must be regularly checked and updated.
Are businesses keeping pace? According to latest reports, 87% of business operations leaders believe that the number of physical security incidents in 2024 will either increase or stay the same compared to last year. 55% of leaders are more worried about crime than they were a year ago.
Despite the statistics, many businesses are not updating their physical security strategies despite rising crime. A single incident can significantly impact inventory, cash flow, project timelines, and reputation.
If crime and vandalism are top concerns, why is security strategy stagnant? The survey revealed that 55% of businesses did not change their security strategies last year.
Common reasons include not experiencing enough incidents to necessitate change, lacking resources, and more. While these reasons are understandable, they shouldn’t be the end of the conversation.
- Don’t ‘Wait and See’ What Happens
Some business owners cited a lack of incidents as a reason for not updating their security strategy.
This approach is risky and can be costly. Waiting until an incident occurs is like buying insurance after an accident – too late to prevent the damage. A single security breach can lead to expensive repairs, loss of assets, and reputational harm, all of which can have long-lasting effects.
No one wants to believe they’ll be targeted, but preparedness is key. We only have to look at the retail sector and the current shoplifting epidemic to see. Proactively researching and implementing security measures should be a priority, especially during periods when sites are unoccupied.
- Overconfidence Is Not a Security Strategy
Overconfidence in existing security measures is another common issue. Effective security strategies are dynamic and continuously evolving.
Regularly auditing current technology and comparing it to what’s available in the market is essential. This includes everything from surveillance cameras and alarms to simple features like site lighting.
For instance, higher-resolution cameras may be needed to cover new blind spots as businesses grow. Enhancing security with additional tools like fencing and improved lighting can significantly bolster protection. While these might seem like quick fixes, they can have a substantial impact.
- Consult the Experts
Limited resources, budget and uncertainty about the best changes to make are other barriers. Security experts can provide invaluable assistance in these situations.
We can audit current defences, identify weak spots, and develop a customised, scalable plan to address gaps. We can also move to integrate security and fire safety into building management systems, a great remote resource for Facility Managers.
If on-site guards are beyond your budget, remote video monitoring might be a viable alternative. Security experts can ensure commercial CCTV systems are correctly positioned, and sites are adequately lit to prevent dark, grainy footage that fails to capture incidents.
The Evolving Nature of Physical Security
There is no doubt that criminal masterminds are becoming more sophisticated. As such threats evolve, so must physical security strategies. The reasons businesses hesitate to update their security are valid but shouldn’t be used as excuses for inaction.
Regular maintenance of physical security practices and solutions can help identify what’s working, what needs improvement, and where strategy shifts are necessary. Simple changes, like adding motion-activated lights, or more advanced solutions, like leveraging AI for automated detection, can make a significant difference.
Security isn’t one-size-fits-all, and there are options for every business. At Amthal, we’re committed to helping businesses stay ahead of security threats with proactive, smart and maintained solutions tailored to individual requirements.