PART 1 – INTRODUCTION
Whether you are a homeowner or business owner, nothing feels worse than being greeted with a report that your property has been broken into by burglars and you have lost valuable items or equipment.
This setback is magnified if you are an entrepreneur and the incident occurs on your business premise. Not only do you lose a significant chunk of the resources needed for your business operation, causing your business growth to stop dead in its track, but your employees will also fear for their safety.
Therefore, it is your responsibility to safeguard your assets and property against criminal acts. One of the best ways to prevent crime is to have a robust security system, as it can deter burglars from forcing entry into your property. Without an adequate security system in place, you are putting your assets at a huge risk.
However, given the fact that Singapore is widely regarded as one of the safest countries worldwide, it might not be a surprise to learn that some Singaporeans have been lulled into a false sense of security by the nation’s low crime rates. As such, they may not see the need to invest in a quality security system.
If you are someone who has similar misgivings about devoting a portion of your finances to set up a robust security system, we are here to persuade you to reconsider. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of having a robust security system, the essential security systems you should invest in, and how to choose the ideal security devices to safeguard your assets.
PART 2 – THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A ROBUST SECURITY SYSTEM
2.1. How a security system functions to protect your property
The primary goal of a security system is to deter crime by making it challenging for criminals to get away with stealing or damaging your property without being detected. This aim is achieved through a variety of preventive measures that incorporate video surveillance and alarms. Let us share how these various devices work in tandem to safeguard your assets.
1. 24/7 real-time monitoring
It is impossible to predict when a crime may occur on your property. Therefore, real-time monitoring is essential to ensure you or the relevant authorities are notified should anything out of the ordinary occur at your business premise or home.
Having 24/7 real-time monitoring can also help to troubleshoot issues and determine whether the incident is a false alarm – someone forgetting to close a door or window – or whether malicious intent was involved. As the crucial information is recorded daily and indented with a date and time stamp by your CCTV system, you can easily pull it out for review when needed.
2. Video surveillance and alarms working in tandem
With a video surveillance component as part of your security arsenal, you can monitor your assets remotely via live streaming or recorded playback. The various CCTV installations enable you to view multiple camera angles, providing you with greater situational awareness, thereby allowing for a faster response time to any incidents.
When video surveillance is paired with a security alarm system, you can be assured that your property and assets are well-protected, thereby providing you with peace of mind. If anyone tampers with the premise, the alarm system will activate and alert you of any sign of forced entry or glass breakage, which you can monitor via remote video surveillance. If there are any suspicious activities occurring, you can notify the police immediately or your alarm system can be linked to a 24/7 manned monitoring station backed up by the Singapore Police Force.
However, before you set out to install a security system on your property, it is crucial for you to determine the aim of the system. While such security systems can be used for both residential and commercial properties, they vary in the way they work and can be tailored to your needs. Once you have determined its purpose, you will be able to select the ideal security system to safeguard your assets.
2.2. Benefits of having a robust security system
There is no denying that security is essential for every commercial and residential establishment. The presence of a robust security system cannot be understated even with Singapore’s low crime rates. However, if you need further convincing, let us list the various benefits of having an adequate security system installed.
Benefit #1: Protect your home and company assets
While modern security systems may be quite expensive, they are also the definition of a wise investment. You are getting incredible value for money since the system helps to safeguard your other high-value investments.
In fact, if you are an entrepreneur, we would argue that a security system is a necessity. After all, you would want to keep your business assets well-protected. And a security system does an excellent job of preventing any losses.
Benefit #2: Prevent theft
Criminals are always on the lookout for easy targets to steal from without being noticed. As such, they typically target properties without security systems because they know they can get away scot-free.
A robust security system can deter such activities before any thieves attempt a break-in. At the end of the day, you would not want your assets to be exposed and allow burglars and thieves easy access to them, would you?
Benefit #3: Save on insurance
If you invest in a high-risk product, you will expect better returns to compensate for the increased risk. This line of thinking also applies to insurance companies when they charge your business in the form of premiums.
A company lacking an adequate security system is classified as a high-risk business for the insurance company, and you will be charged a higher premium as a result. Conversely, an organisation with the essential commercial security system installed can expect a lower premium, as it is regarded as a low-risk business.
Benefit #4: Provide you and your employees with peace of mind
One of your primary responsibilities as an entrepreneur is to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees. The presence of a CCTV system ensures the workplace is monitored, thereby promoting a safer working environment.
Employees have peace of mind knowing any unfortunate accident will be recorded and the relevant authorities notified. This is especially crucial for businesses that require employees to work odd hours or late shifts. When your employees feel safe, they can focus better on the task at hand, leading to increased productivity for your business.
A robust security system provides you with peace of mind as well since you know your establishment is well-protected from both inside and out. This knowledge allows you to focus on the things that matter the most to you as an entrepreneur – such as growing your business.
Benefit #5: Boost your business reputation
Every business owner understands the importance of maintaining their business reputation. However, a company’s reputation does not merely depend on its ability to provide quality products and services. The image your business portrays to the public and investors also plays a significant role.
A business that understands the value of having a robust security system and has the necessary devices installed will be viewed as an organised company prepared for all eventualities. This reputation is a significant draw to both consumers and investors alike.
PART 3 – WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL SECURITY DEVICES YOU NEED
3.1. The essential security devices you require
Now that you have a better understanding of the importance of a robust security system, you would undoubtedly be looking at ways to enhance the security of your property – whether it is your residence or business premise. So as you go about identifying the ideal security system, let us expand upon some of the vital elements it requires.
Access control
An access control system is one of the most important aspects of preventive security measures. It is essential for you to know who is on your property for crime prevention, and as a precaution in case of an emergency – the emergency response team will know how many people to account for in the events of an evacuation.
There are various ID-based access control systems that grant or restrict access to a premise. From PIN keypads to a fingerprint door access system, all of these systems read a set of credentials before the linked security panel verifies it against the approved list of users. These systems allow you to decide who has access to your property.
The kind of door access system you require depends primarily on the type and amount of foot traffic your residential or commercial property gets on a typical day. For example, an access control system for an industrial warehouse located at Jurong will differ vastly from a condominium located at Orchard Road.
A door access system is particularly crucial in a work environment, especially if the company is dealing with sensitive data, equipment, or chemicals. In such a scenario, no employees should be allowed to access the restricted areas without proper clearance. This measure helps to minimise the risk of your employees sharing company secrets or damaging equipment crucial to the business’s daily operations.
If your commercial premise features a business car park, you should consider installing a car park gantry barrier. A barrier gate helps to deter unwanted intruders and restrict vehicular traffic at the entrance and exit points of your business premise.
Car park barriers also function as a sturdy barricade that prevents unauthorised vehicles from entering the business premise. Not only does this free up parking spaces for authorised visitors – you and your employees – but it also allows your security team to better manage the traffic flow.
Surveillance
A video surveillance system is an absolute must-buy whether you are looking to install a robust security system at a residential or commercial property. For homeowners, having a CCTV system deters potential burglars from attempting to break into your property. Even if a break-in occurs, the police can use the footage recorded to track down the perpetrators.
As for entrepreneurs, video surveillance in the workplace is an essential tool for maintaining a high level of security, allowing you to keep a close eye on the incoming and outgoing using appropriate CCTV surveillance devices. Not only is a CCTV system a helpful incident tracking mechanism, but it is also the ideal preventative security measure.
Alarms and sensors
Another crucial component to a well thought out security plan is a top-notch security alarm system. Having this system integrated into your residential or commercial security system ensures that any malicious activities or security breaches can be deterred.
However, it is a challenge to select the ideal alarm system given the numerous types of sensors available on the market. Nonetheless, here are a few basic kits that you should include in your security system:
- Shock sensors
- Door and window contact sensors
- Glass-break sensors
- Motion detectors
While each sensor serves a different function, they are all linked to a central security panel on the premise. You can set the panel to follow pre-determined instructions should any of the sensors be triggered, such as sounding the alarm or silently alerting the authorities when a break-in occurs on your property.
3.2. How to choose the ideal security devices
While you may have a general idea of the components you need for your security system, it can be a challenge to narrow down your options for each device given the various products on the market.
However, it is imperative for you to select suitable devices to ensure your security system is well-equipped to fulfil all your security requirements. So as you begin your search, allow us to share several helpful tips to aid you in identifying the ideal security devices.
How to choose the right CCTV system
Decide if the surveillance device is for indoor or outdoor uses
It is pivotal for you to understand whether your video surveillance devices are meant for indoor or outdoor uses. This is because some CCTV cameras are specifically designed for indoor use and are not weather-proof. If you install the wrong CCTV cameras, you may need regular CCTV maintenance since the devices are more likely to malfunction.
If your surveillance device is intended for indoor use, you should consider getting models that feature infrared sensors for night mode and a higher resolution count – 2 Megapixels and beyond. These features will ensure you receive detailed videos at all times even when the lighting is compromised.
Know the storage capacity you require
A key factor to consider when purchasing a CCTV system in Singapore is the storage capacity you need. There are several elements – the resolution of your surveillance device, the number of cameras you have, and the amount of footage you need to store – that will affect the storage capacity. If you require high-definition video footage, particularly when facial recognition is necessary, you need to ensure you have ample storage available.
Understand the coverage capabilities you need
As you continue searching for the right CCTV system, you should consider asking yourself this question, “How much of your commercial or residential property needs to be covered by surveillance devices?” It is beneficial to draw up a blueprint of the floor area since it gives you a better understanding of the amount and types of cameras needed.
PTZ (Pan-tilt-zoom) cameras are ideal for bigger areas due to their larger field of view and ability to zoom in on a particular activity. These devices allow you to establish a robust surveillance network with fewer CCTV cameras, keeping your costs down. Conversely, a smaller area will only require a static camera.
How to choose the right access control system
Consider the access level policies you need
The access level policies are the first thing you need to consider when looking for an access control system. These component help determine who can gain access to your property and how and when they can do so.
It is essential for you to know how you want to structure access as there are multiple ways for you to approach the situation. Some may prefer to grant access based on the rank within a company (role-based access), while others may provide access to a specific list of names (discretionary access).
Consider the access hardware you want to use
After deciding on who has access to your property, the next thing you need to consider is the access hardware you will use. How will your employees or relatives gain access to your property? Will you consider using cards, tags, keypads, or a fingerprint door access system?
Each door access system comes with its own access features, advantages, and disadvantages, which can affect the level of security that you will have. For example, fingerprinting will provide a greater level of security than a keypad system since the access code for the latter system can be leaked to others.
Consider the level of security you need
It can feel overwhelming to choose the ideal access system given the numerous options available to you. However, fret not! The bulk of your decision will likely come down to the level of security you require in your residential or commercial property.
For example, a large business premise may require multiple access control needs compared to an auto gate system in a gated community. Some of the key factors that will influence the level of security you need include the location of your property and restrictions.
Consider the reliability and history of the service provider
Deciding on the door access system you wish to install is merely the first step. You will also need to consider the service provider carefully. It is imperative to do your research and find out how long your preferred service provider has been in business.
The company’s portfolio is an excellent place to start. Take note of the other types of businesses and users who have engaged its services in the past. Are they similar to the scope and size of your own needs? If the answer is yes, the service provider may be the ideal fit.
Alternatively, you can consider checking the reviews to understand the reliability of your chosen service provider. In addition to providing prompt services, the service provider should ideally offer an extensive selection of maintenance services, such as auto gate repair services, in case a malfunction occurs.
Take note of any compatibility and connectivity requirements
If you are looking to integrate a new access control system – like an intercom system – into your existing security system, you need to ensure you are aware of its connectivity and compatibility requirements. This is because specific access control systems may not be compatible with every operating system.
Therefore, it is imperative to find out if there are any compatibility issues before beginning the installation process. After all, you would not want any problems to crop up within your security system since you would likely incur additional expenses to troubleshoot the issues that appear.
How to choose the right alarm system
Consider the assets that you are protecting
The first thing you need to consider when selecting your security alarm system is the assets that you are safeguarding. This factor will heavily influence your decision since various assets are protected in different ways.
For example, a jewellery store would likely place significant emphasis on protecting its physical assets since its products are prominently displayed in glass cases. Therefore, it makes sense to install glass-break and motion sensors throughout the store. Conversely, an accounting firm may opt for less drastic measures since it has a minimal physical inventory to safeguard.
Integration with other security systems
It is exhausting and confusing to maintain and operate several security systems independently. As such, many users opt to integrate their alarm systems with their established security systems.
If you are facing a similar situation, you need to ensure your chosen security alarm system can integrate seamlessly with any pre-existing security system you have installed. This will make the alarm installation process much smoother and cheaper.
Factor in the size of your residential or commercial property
The size of your property plays a significant factor in the security alarm system you install. Larger properties, such as a business premise, will require more sensors and larger coverage. You may want to consider installing a wired alarm system for such buildings since they are more reliable over long distances.
Conversely, a wireless alarm system may suffice for a smaller property, like your residence. This system operates on a Wi-Fi network, making it easier and quicker to install. It can also be considered for a larger facility, but you need to ensure there is sufficient internet connectivity throughout.
Decide on how you want to be notified in the event of a break-in
Many business owners opt to hire a professional alarm monitoring service as the go-to point of contact in case of an emergency. When the alarm activates, the monitoring service will alert the relevant authorities to respond to the situation.
However, numerous security alarm systems can be calibrated to send an alert to a specific user – including you – in the form of an automated phone call, sms text, or mobile notification. So if you are a homeowner or you would prefer to save on the costs of hiring a professional alarm monitoring service, you can choose to send the alert to either yourself or a family member/employee.
PART 4 – CONCLUSION
We hope what we have shared has provided you with a better understanding of the importance of having a robust security system in your home and workplace. Whether you are a homeowner or an entrepreneur, the installation of the necessary security systems ensures you are creating a safe environment for your family members and employees respectively.
Astrol Security Engineering Pte Ltd is one of the preeminent providers of security services in Singapore. If you are looking for high-quality security devices to safeguard your residential or commercial property, do not hesitate to contact us to learn more about our products and services.