Securing your business property: Cost-effective physical security upgrades against break-ins
Photo by Alexander Isreb
When you’ve invested money and time into building your business, the last thing you want to have happen is a break-in or theft. Unfortunately, however, commercial spaces are prime targets for individuals looking to gather money or merchandise.
As a business owner, plan on prioritizing better safety measures. By upgrading your buildings with the latest security enhancements, you can keep them safe from criminals, and you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Keep reading to learn about the latest budget-friendly security upgrades that can protect your business.
The value of physical security upgrades
Protecting the physical structures where you operate your business is a critical part of maintaining your business. If your door locks are too simplistic or your windows invite prying eyes, you’ll leave your business vulnerable to criminals.
Break-ins can lead to financial hardship and make customers wary of visiting your business. Plus, you’ll be stuck repairing broken windows or ransacked spaces to get your business up and running again.
That’s why investing in physical security upgrades is a critical move for any seasoned or new business owner. You’ll protect your assets and reassure staff that you value their safety. You’ll also be able to show potential criminals that you’re serious about security, and they may decide to steer clear of your business.
Start with better locks
If your business has spring bolt locks securing doors or windows, upgrade to deadlatch locks. Spring bolt locks, though simple in design, are not as secure as other options. Deadlatch locks, like an Adams Rite lock, provide enhanced resistance since they lock automatically after a door shuts. They are also difficult to pry open, and if you’re forgetful about locking doors, you won’t have to worry since they’ll lock right away.
Deadlatch locks are an excellent solution for commercial doors, and they’re easy to install. Since they generally cost under $100 per lock, they’re not cost-prohibitive, either. For business leaders on tight budgets, these units are a simple way to establish stronger safety standards.
Add electric strikes
Don’t stop at better locks. Go a step further by introducing electric strikes to your locking mechanisms. These devices sit in place of standard strike plates on doorframes. They can allow a door to stay locked or be released by way of a card reader or a password entered on a keypad.
If you’re working with access control systems or intercoms, electric strikes make a lot of sense. You can feel confident that a door is securely locked and that a space can be accessed only by those with the right credentials.
Yes, you’ll need to spend a few hundred dollars per unit to add electric strikes to your locking system. But when you need to control entry points, they’re invaluable.
Look into access control systems
You may not have thought that access control solutions were financially realistic when you wrote your business plan. But today, many small businesses can afford sophisticated control systems with keypads and key fob entry points to keep their businesses safe.
You’ll be able to track who enters a given space, and how often they enter it. If someone leaves your organization, it’s quick and easy to deactivate their access. Likewise, if someone loses a key fob, you can deactivate access until it’s located or replaced. Basic systems could cost around $500 for a single entry point. But with fast installation and the resulting peace of mind, they’re well worth the investment.
Enhance your doors and windows
Windows, doors, and transparent surfaces are an invitation for criminals to see what your inventory looks like. And for many criminals, they’re the point of entry during a break-in.
That’s where security window film can offer an extra layer of protection. Apply it directly to glass surfaces to help prevent shattering. If someone tries to punch through your glass, the film keeps the glass in place.
Best of all, security film won’t cost you a lot of money. At just $5–$10 per square foot, it’s a cost-effective security solution. And it’s easy to install on anything from storefront windows to back doors.
Install better lights
When you want to deter crime before criminals even make it to your windows, install strong lighting on the exterior of your business. Motion-activated lights will stop someone in their tracks and make them reconsider. Floodlights and even accent lights on vegetation or windows can help create obvious spaces where criminals will know they can’t hide.
Additionally, add some lights around all entrances to your building. Employees will appreciate knowing that you’ve prioritized their well-being when they arrive or leave during off-hours. Much like window films, lighting upgrades are relatively inexpensive, too.
Invest in the right security updates
You don’t have to gouge your bank account to create a safer business setting. With a combination of simple yet potent security measures, you can protect against intrusion and empower your employees to feel safe.
Opt for stronger locks and electric strikes to secure all entrances. And install motion-activated lights and window film for low-budget enhancements. You’ll protect your property as your business grows.