Why Separate Alarm, Video and Access Control Systems Keep Your Business Protected
Most companies have a business security system in place, but few business owners stop to ask what happens if a portion of the system fails. In the business security industry, much of the attention goes to “integrated” security, where every system runs on one connected platform. We see it differently at A1 Security. In our experience, commercial security works best when it’s built in layers, so that one problem never leaves you with nothing.
In this post, we explain what layered security looks like and how integrated security systems can fail. Then we cover how to match the layers to your business, and what to ask any security provider.
What Layered Business Security Means
Layered security means protecting your business with several components working together. High-security sites are a good example. Before you ever reach the building, you’ll typically pass concrete barriers, bollards, fencing and lighting. Video surveillance with people and vehicle analytics adds information about anyone approaching. At the building itself, controlled access keeps unauthorized people from entering or wandering into areas where they don’t belong. Finally, intrusion detection provides after-hours monitoring.
Each of these layers allows time to deal with a situation if one arises, and gives you the information to decide how to handle a malicious event appropriately.
Ultimately, layered security means we take a look outward at the big picture before we move inside. When we walk a site, in addition to reviewing the application for alarm systems, security cameras and access control, we also review fencing, lighting and other issues that leave you exposed.
For a high target business, protection may start at the gate, where bollards keep anyone from driving a truck through the fence. Moving inward, we look for solid locking door hardware, and glass to see if security window film may be of use to prevent anyone from getting in by breaking the glass. At the perimeter of the building, we look at where cameras that detect people and vehicles would be most useful. We evaluate how intrusion alarm monitoring and card access can be put in place to protect the building and control who moves through it. Finally, we make sure the systems have redundancy, with standby power and multiple methods of communication to the monitoring station. These security layers make a crime of opportunity much harder to pull off.
What Integrated Security Means, and What Happens When It Fails
Integrated security can work well in the right setting, but because every part depends on the others, there can be instances where one failure can take everything down.
An integrated system runs the alarm system, access control and surveillance cameras on one connected platform. There’s a time and place for that kind of security.
We’ve seen the downside firsthand when repairing other companies’ integrated commercial security systems. In one case, the business alarm system, access and video all went down together. As a result, the client couldn’t lock their doors or arm their alarm, and they ended up hiring security guards to protect the building.
The Right Layers Depend on Your Business
No two businesses need the same protection. The right layers depend on your potential threats, how you’ll respond, and how you’ll plan ahead.
To begin with, consider what you’re protecting. A small business like a physiotherapy clinic isn’t storing diamonds or gold, while a jewellery store or high-target pharmacy faces very different risks. Once we understand that, we decide whether to talk about doors and locks. You’d be surprised how often we find locks that don’t even work.
Next, good layers help you make decisions at 3 a.m. If you have a fenced yard, commercial security cameras with analytics can alert you to someone moving through it overnight. You can then review the security camera footage remotely and call for support if needed. What we never want is a staff member driving down to check, since nobody should be put in harm’s way.
Finally, layers are about planning for scenarios. One of our clients, a tenant in a commercial building, learned this when a roofing crew accidentally started a fire. Because we monitored their fire alarm system, the fire trucks arrived quickly. Still, the building stayed evacuated for days, and he couldn’t reach his product or even his computer. Flood and intrusion detection raise the same question, because an alert only helps if you know who to call.
Choosing a Commercial Security Provider
Choosing among commercial security services comes down to knowing what a company actually does and asking the right questions before you sign.
Our own work covers commercial alarm systems, surveillance systems, and access control systems, as well as fire alarm panel monitoring. For door hardware, fencing and window film, we bring in trusted partners. We recommend security solutions, and you decide what fits your business.
Whoever you choose, start with standards. Equipment for business alarm systems should be UL listed, and the monitoring station should be ULC listed. We’re ULC listed for fire alarm panel monitoring, so we’re audited every year. Beyond that, ask for references, training, 24/7 availability, and whether their own team does the installation and service.
Most importantly, ask what happens when one part of a commercial security system fails. If the whole system goes down, at least you can plan for it. Alternatively, you can choose a layered approach, where a problem in one system doesn’t affect the others.
If you’d like to know how your current business security would hold up, our security experts are happy to walk your site with you. Contact us.
A1 Security Systems is a security solutions provider that works with business owners who want to protect their property and their people. We ensure their security 24/7 so they feel safe and comforted in the knowledge that our dedicated security team has got their back. Unlike our competitors we don’t force our clients into long term contracts, and we can handle complex security requirements throughout Canada. Read more about our services on https://www.a1securitysystems.ca/
