In the past 12 months more than two-thirds of small businesses have been a victim of crime. These crimes cost businesses millions of pounds every year. In the current economic climate businesses can ill afford these losses.
Many businesses play an important role in their local community and any crime against business has much wider implications. A recent study showed that for over half of all businesses surveyed crime was a key factor and directly impacted their decisions on the location of the business, the level of inward investment and recruitment.
It has been estimated that a third of businesses fail to make a formal report when they have been a victim of crime. The most common reason being that they felt the police would not be able to bring a successful prosecution.
In March 2009, AXA reported a 10% year-on-year rise in business crime as a result of the recession. The results particularly highlight growth in malicious damage and arson, where the numbers of crimes were up 14% and 23% respectively.
When it comes to crime against business these statistics clearly demonstrate the importance of taking robust preventative measures.
What should you do?
Firstly and most important is to find a reputable supplier of security systems. The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is the leading accreditation and approval body in the UK. NSI approved companies meet the standards demanded by the police, fire service and insurance industry to reduce your risks and keep your insurance premiums to a minimum.
What do you need?
There are several types of security and protection systems including the following:
- External Deterrent Systems – Ensure unwanted visitors leave before damage is done
- Intruder Systems – Remotely monitored alarms can provide a rapid response
- CCTV – Watch over your site with external, internal and covert cameras
- Fire Alarm Systems – Protect your assets and your people
- Access Control – Allow only your staff to access your premises
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) – Identify vehicles entering your site
- Gates and Barriers – Controls access, can be used with ANPR systems
- Lone Worker – Support and security for staff working alone
Your NSI approved supplier will work closely with you to assess exactly which systems will provide you with the protection that your business needs.
