|
Environment
If your business premises are situated in a well maintained area there is less risk that crime will be committed.
You are unlikely to have any influence over the maintenance of the area around your business but you may be able to get together with others and have some matters resolved.
If things like rubbish and graffiti are removed quickly, it will give the impression that those working in the area care and are more likely to have measures in place to safeguard their businesses.
Boundary
Make sure that any physical boundary, walls, fences are built of appropriate material and that it is secure and well maintained, especially in areas that are not clearly visible. If gates are present at entrances make sure they are secured when not in use. Use appropriate signage to set rules (no unauthorised entry, ID badges require beyond this point etc.)
The main points to look for are areas of poor lighting at night. Tools or materials left out which can be used to break in or aid climbing. Places where an offender can hide if disturbed, bushes etc. near entrance points, doors, windows.
Buildings
Look for weak points. Imagine what a criminal would look for. Secure any ways a criminal could get in. Make sure that there is nothing around the building which could be used to break in. Move any computer equipment which can be seen from outside.
Control access into the building, key coded locks etc. Is there adequate lighting at night? Keep the building well maintained and display signage warning of the security measures you have in place. It is all very well having alarms and CCTV but you need to make sure a potential offender is put off before they test it’s effectiveness.
|
Home Office
The prevention advice given on this site regarding domestic burglary, is equally applicable for a home office. Burglary
A lot of time can be saved by completing the Home Security Survey, which will highlight areas where your security could be improved. Survey
Business Premises
The home office produced a booklet in 2005 "Your Business - Keep Crime Out of It". Many of the points are still applicable and is a good starting point.
However, some of the security standards for locks etc. have now been superseded.
The advice given is no substitute for having a survey of your premises conducted by a local crime reduction officer. Certainly, if your premises are used to conduct retail sales you should ensure this is done.
|
