Virtually every type of business needs to have effective security and video surveillance systems in place that can help to protect it against trespass, theft, vandalism, employee dishonesty, and other forms of unnecessary liability exposure. Businesses that operate at remote locations, change locations frequently, or work in large areas need to be particularly conscientious about the design and functionality of their security systems. This is especially true for companies that operate large commercial warehouses, construction sites, or residential facilities. Here are some key ways to ensure that your business’ surveillance systems will provide adequate protection and meet your business’ individual needs.
1. Ensure that Your Cameras Provide Adequate Resolution
Some low-quality cameras have limited resolution and produce grainy images that can’t be enlarged or enhanced. In addition, poor quality cameras work only at very limited distances, making objects and people that are far away difficult to make out. When you’re selecting cameras, you need to choose cameras that have the capability to produce a high-resolution picture quality.
2. Use Equipment that Works Well in Low Lighting
Video surveillance is particularly important during hours when the premises that you’re monitoring are not occupied, so it’s necessary to choose cameras that can capture video in low light or during the nighttime. Years ago, the only option to capture clear images at night was with a night vision style of camera filter that produced videos which appear to be in black and white and tended to have an unnatural glowing and greenish quality. However, recent advancements in video technology have made commercial security cameras capable of capturing high-quality full-color video even in dimly lit or dark settings.
3. Obtain the Right Number of Cameras
If you need your security system to cover a large area, you have to install enough cameras to avoid leaving significant gaps in coverage. Security cameras in a warehouse or an expansive outdoor area like a construction job site must cover all entry and exit points in addition to any areas where valuable materials are stored.
4. Position Your Cameras Strategically
Cameras need to be positioned at proper heights and angles to produce a clear picture of where people will be walking. If a camera is near a door, for example, opening or closing the door should not obscure the video’s frame. If you’re especially concerned that your cameras will be susceptible to vandalism, you can position cameras to point at each other so you will have a recording that captures who tampered with a camera.
5. Set Your Cameras to Be Motion Activated
If your cameras run continuously, it’s possible that you’ll use up an excessive amount of your system’s memory and you won’t be able to save a lot of footage. Setting your cameras to be motion-activated will enable you to save more important footage. In addition, you’ll have an easier time searching for footage when each recorded event is triggered by motion.
6. Choose a System that Provides Adequate Storage Space
Even when you use a motion-activated setting, some DVR based systems and cloud-based storage systems provide inadequate storage capacity. If a system allows you to save only a couple of days of footage, you may not be able to access the video by the time you realize that you need it. It’s essential to choose a system that can store an adequate amount of footage, ideally at least thirty days’ worth.
7. Purchase a System that Is User-Friendly
When you’re purchasing a new surveillance system, it’s important to look for one that has a user interface that is intuitive and easy to operate. If only one or two of your team members know how to use the system, you may have difficulty accessing footage when you most need it. Operating a system shouldn’t be a struggle for anyone to learn.
8. Give Yourself the Option to View Footage Remotely
A modern surveillance system should be viewable from anywhere, not just a hardwired DVR. Choose a system that lets you view footage remotely through an online platform or an app on your phone so that you can have instant access to your footage. You can also look for a feature that notifies you when a motion-activated recording is initiated so you can see what’s happening in real-time.
9. Work with a Provider who Can Help You with Operation and Troubleshooting Problems
If you’re installing a new system, you should work with a company that can help you with more than just the installation process. The best companies to work with are available to help instruct you on using your system and troubleshoot problems. Moreover, should part of your system become damaged, you will want to have access to help from a company that is knowledgeable about your individual system and will be responsive when you need help.