Table of Contents
Is Your Business Properly Secured?
Commercial property crime costs businesses billions annually. The good news? Most security vulnerabilities are preventable with proper planning and the right systems.
Use this comprehensive checklist to evaluate and improve your business security.
Physical Security Checklist
Entry Points
- All exterior doors have commercial-grade deadbolts
- Glass doors have reinforced frames or security film
- Emergency exits have panic bars and alarms
- Loading dock doors have heavy-duty locks
- Windows have locks and/or security bars where appropriate
Access Control
- Key inventory is documented and up-to-date
- Master key system limits access by role
- Electronic access logs entry/exit times
- Visitor management system in place
- Terminated employees’ access is revoked immediately
Lighting
- All entry points are well-lit
- Parking areas have adequate lighting
- Motion-activated lights cover blind spots
- Interior lights visible from outside after hours
Technology Security Checklist
Alarm Systems
- Intrusion detection covers all entry points
- Motion sensors in key areas
- Glass break sensors on vulnerable windows
- System is monitored 24/7
- Regular testing and maintenance scheduled
Surveillance
- Cameras cover entrances, exits, and sensitive areas
- Recording system stores minimum 30 days
- Video quality sufficient for identification
- Remote viewing capability enabled
- Signs notify visitors of surveillance
Safes and Secure Storage
- Safe rated for contents value
- Bolted down or weighs 1,000+ lbs
- Combination changes when employees leave
- Fire rating appropriate for documents
Operational Security Checklist
Employee Protocols
- Background checks for all employees
- Clear policies on key/access card handling
- Procedure for lost keys (rekey vs. replace)
- Cash handling procedures documented
- After-hours access protocols established
Emergency Procedures
- Locksmith on retainer for emergencies
- Emergency contact list posted
- Employees know who to call for lockouts
- After-break-in procedure documented
Regular Maintenance
- Locks inspected quarterly
- Alarm system tested monthly
- Access logs reviewed regularly
- Security audit conducted annually
Industry-Specific Considerations
Retail
- High cash volumes require focus on safes, cash drops, and after-hours security.
Restaurants
- Multiple shifts mean complex access schedules. Electronic access excels here.
Medical Offices
- HIPAA compliance requires secure storage for patient records.
Warehouses
- Large footprints need comprehensive camera coverage and heavy-duty locks.
Cost of Security vs. Cost of Crime
| Security Investment | Typical Cost | Average Loss Prevented |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Rekey | $200-500 | $5,000+ per incident |
| Access Control System | $2,000-10,000 | $10,000+ per breach |
| Camera System | $1,500-5,000 | $15,000+ per incident |
| Security Audit | $500-1,500 | Priceless peace of mind |
Ready for a security assessment? Our commercial specialists evaluate businesses across Northern New Jersey. Schedule your free consultation to identify vulnerabilities and solutions.
Tagged: #commercial security #business security #access control #master key systems
R
Royal Locksmith Team
Expert locksmith and security consultant with years of experience helping homeowners and businesses protect what matters most. Passionate about sharing knowledge and empowering readers to make informed security decisions.
