Thefts, assault and intimidation are on the rise for businesses across Western Canada. As a result, an increasing number of companies are looking for ways to better protect their properties.
One popular solution, especially for larger establishments, is hiring security personnel to stand guard outside of stores. But is this really the right option?
The choice between employing security guards or relying on video surveillance systems has long been a debated topic. Both options come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks, and understanding these nuances is crucial in making an informed decision that safeguards your business effectively.
While security guards offer a human touch, relying solely on them can lead to several pitfalls, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that incorporates modern technology like video surveillance.
With that in mind, here are some reasons why security guards might not be your company’s best option:
1. Cost-Effectiveness
Hiring security guards might seem cost-effective, but in the long run, the continuous payment of wages, benefits, and other expenses can significantly impact budgets. Conversely, video surveillance systems typically involve an upfront investment, but tend to have lower operational costs over time.
2. Limited Coverage and Vigilance
Security guards are bound by human limitations such as fatigue and the inability to be present everywhere simultaneously. As a result, there are inherent gaps in surveillance coverage, leaving areas of your business vulnerable. Video surveillance, on the other hand, provides continuous monitoring without such limitations, offering broader coverage and a consistent watchful eye.
3. Subjectivity and Human Error
Guards can vary in their performance and judgement, and their effectiveness might be influenced by factors like mood, attention span, or personal biases. Video surveillance, being objective and impartial, eliminates these subjective factors, providing a more consistent and reliable monitoring system.
4. Response Time and Intervention
Guards might not always respond swiftly to potential threats due to various reasons like distraction or lack of immediate proximity. Advanced video surveillance technologies, such as verified security, can quickly detect anomalies and alert the appropriate personnel or authorities for immediate action. We will talk about verified security in more detail later in this article.
5. Legal Implications and Accountability
Instances of misconduct or mishandling by security guards can result in legal repercussions for business owners. Video surveillance, when appropriately used and maintained, can serve as irrefutable evidence and ensure accountability in case of incidents.
6. Adaptability and Technological Advancements
Security technology is constantly evolving, with advancements in the capabilities and quality of video surveillance systems. Security guards might not always keep up with the latest technological trends and might lack the expertise to leverage these advancements effectively.
7. Scalability and Flexibility
Scaling up security measures with guards often requires hiring additional personnel, which can be a cumbersome and time-consuming process. Video surveillance systems can be easily scaled and adjusted to accommodate changing security needs without significant logistical challenges.
Verified Security Combines the Benefits of Security Guards and Video Surveillance
Verified security, which combines elements of security guards and traditional CCTV recordings, presents a compelling solution that addresses the limitations of each method.
Verified security utilizes live monitoring by security professionals who actively observe video and audio feeds. Unlike traditional CCTV recordings where the footage is reviewed after an incident occurs, verified security allows for real-time analysis. This ensures immediate detection and verification of potential threats and enables quick response, overcoming the delay associated with guards or post-incident CCTV review.
One of the main benefits of security guards is that they verify a security incident. While traditional CCTV systems suffer from high false alarm rates, verified security benefits from this human judgement to verify potential threats. This significantly reduces false alarms by distinguishing between genuine security breaches and harmless incidents.
In cases where an incident is detected, verified security professionals can immediately contact authorities or designated response teams, providing real-time information and facilitating a rapid response.
Another benefit of verified security systems is that they often integrate cutting-edge technology to enhance the capabilities of surveillance systems, allowing for more precise threat detection and proactive measures to prevent security breaches.
Want to learn more about the benefits of verified security and how it can protect your business? Book a free security plan with Sonitrol Western Canada today.
