Why Businesses Avoid Physical Security and Access Control - Debunking the Biggest Myths

When business owners are considering setting up physical security measures for a business premises, there are several common misconceptions, myths and excuses that can deter them from installing a reliable system. Here are some of them — and why they're wrong! 

"We only have a small company, so we won't be targeted by criminals." 

No company is too small to become a victim of crime.  

The Government's 2023 Commercial Victimisation Survey (CVS) shows that 7% of businesses with fewer than 10 employees were victims of burglary or attempted burglary, while the figures for businesses with 10-50 and 50+ employees were 10% and 11% respectively. The figures for theft were even higher: 13%, 25% and 22% for businesses with fewer than 10, 10-50, and 50+ employees respectively.

There's also the possibility of wrongdoing from inside the company — disgruntled employees and light-fingered visitors can occur however small your business.

"Our business is located in a safe area." 

When it comes to crime, there is no completely safe area. While potential criminals do indeed target more businesses in unsafe areas — including isolated or rural areas — the 2023 CVS showed only slightly higher incidences of burglary in rural areas than urban (10% vs 7% respectively), and incidences of crime overall was roughly equal (27% vs 26%).  

Higher risk locations may see higher crime rates, but even safer areas experience a degree of criminal activity. A lack of visible security, poorly lit areas, and untidy exteriors (including poorly stored bins and containers, overgrown hedges or trees, and graffiti) can all attract the wrong sort of attention no matter where your business is sited (see police.uk for more on how to deter criminals from your place of business). 

"We can just put up fake cameras and alarms — they'll deter potential criminals." 

The idea behind dummy cameras and alarms is that potential criminals will mistake them for the real thing and move on somewhere else. However, anyone intent on breaking in will pay attention to the security systems in place and will spot that any dummy equipment is only for show. Experienced criminals will know about security services in the area, including brands of camera and alarm companies, so using cheap fakes for show would only serve to highlight your lack of any real security on the premises, which would likely further encourage them to target your business. 

"We don't need anything fancy. Basic locks, alarms and CCTV are all we need." 

Obviously you need good locks, alarms and CCTV coverage — but the way you use them should be effective.  

Door locks need to be upgraded from simple deadbolts and keys — criminals can pick and force their way through basic types of lock. CCTV that simply records images to a disk somewhere (especially if this is stored on an easily-stolen computer on-site) is no use for preventing and stopping ongoing crime, only for checking afterwards. Likewise, if the alarm doesn't alert anyone as it goes off, there's very little point to it. Both CCTV and alarms need remote monitoring in real-time to actually make a difference. 

For truly secure premises you need to utilise a comprehensive range of methods, including access control, monitored CCTV surveillance, and alarms with real-time alerts. Keep track of who is on your premises easily and be alerted when something suspicious occurs. Use good quality smart locks instead of traditional tumblers with keys to protect against lockpicking and blunt force. 

"Installing and using all of this security and access control is so disruptive."  

Effective and properly installed security measures and access control would benefit your business, thanks to decreased likelihood of theft and break-ins, and more convenient control and monitoring over who goes where in your property. 

Access systems on doors replace or supplement existing locks, CCTV cameras are now compact and convenient for placement almost anywhere, and you can utilise facial identification for contact-free entry systems. 

A well set up security and access control system can help with limiting access to ensure only qualified staff can enter specific areas, or staff-only access to stop customers and visitors from roaming the site. Remote CCTV monitoring means your camera feeds are professionally monitored for you, and you only get notified when necessary.

"The systems are complicated and just another thing we have to do." 

All software varies, of course, but modern security and access control systems are designed to be easy to use. Tensor's access control systems are powered by a Windows-based platform that can scale from one office to large multi-site businesses. Once it's installed you will be trained in its use, and our helpdesk is on hand to respond to any queries. 

You can even have your staff set up to use the Self-Service Module, which provides support for remote working and attendance monitoring, including booking time off. It's all intuitive to use and assists with HR tasks and timekeeping, further benefiting your business. 

"Professional security and access control systems are expensive."  

As discussed above, cheaper deterrents might do more harm than good — and a superior one can benefit your business in additional ways. Installing a comprehensive security system is an investment for your business, and Tensor offers scalable and modular products that can be applied to businesses and premises of any size and budget.  

Tensor also offers a leasing scheme so you can keep your system up to date without large upfront costs and a stable repayment amount, allowing you to take advantage of industry-leading technology at an affordable price.

With the right provider, the right equipment and the right setup, a security and access control system is not just a benefit to your business, it's a necessity. 

It's easy to find out how Tensor can provide a system to suit your needs — book a free demo now.