A growing number of businesses are using closed circuit television (CCTV) for a variety of reasons including the safety and security of employees and visitors, protecting assets, quality control, workplace compliance, Health and Safety compliance and public liability.

If you’re considering installing CCTV in your workplace, here are the top 10 factors to consider:

1. Legislation surrounding CCTV in the workplace

Various state and federal laws and regulations govern the use of CCTV and the information that is collected and it is worthwhile ascertaining compliance before installing any type of surveillance or monitoring system in the workplace.    Generally, a business using CCTV cameras is obliged to notify staff, contractors and visitors that their movements are being recorded.

2. Identify the reasons why your business needs CCTV

CCTV systems aren’t all the same and it is crucial to identify the motivation for installing a system in your workplace so that you get the best solution for your specific needs.

3. Do you have an existing alarm system?

Most commercial and industrial operations are now opting to integrate their CCTV cameras with their security system because it enables far greater protection and more efficient operation.  If you do have an existing security alarm system, it is worthwhile investigating whether CCTV can be added and integrated into it in order to improve your crime prevention endeavours and ensure greater workplace compliance.

4. What image quality do you require?

The type of CCTV system that you choose will depend on the clarity of the still or video images that you require.  A lower resolution is fine for general purposes but if you require much sharper images for facial recognition or capturing vehicle number plates, you will need high resolution images.

5. Does your workplace have appropriate lighting for the CCTV cameras?

It may be tempting to attempt a DIY installation of CCTV cameras in the workplace but many people don’t realise how important lighting is.  It is in your best interests to choose the right system for the lighting conditions (eg low-light or night vision cameras) and get the cameras professionally installed.

6. Positioning of the cameras

Again, for optimum results, professional input is recommended on the positioning of the devices.   They will have the experience and expertise to position and angle the cameras appropriately so as to get optimum coverage.  They will also know where to install the cameras so that they can’t be tampered with easily.

7. Do you require any specialised technology?

Advances in camera technology and digital communications have enabled significant changes to CCTV camera systems.  From digital and IP-based CCTV cameras, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras which can be operated remotely, infrared cameras which detect heat sources, sophisticated video analytics, remote viewing and touch-screen equipment, the CCTV landscape has evolved significantly in recent times and will continue to develop as new technologies and capabilities come to market.   It’s worthwhile discussing all options with an experienced provider so that you choose one which meets your current requirements and which is future-proofed to accommodate your changing needs.

8. What type of monitoring screens do you require?

Security monitor screens are available in a range of sizes, resolutions and formats including LCD, flat panel and touch screen.  The type you choose will depend on your requirements, so it’s best to discuss options with a professional CCTV installer.

9. CCTV can be integrated with other security systems

More and more businesses are realising the benefits of an integrated security management system that incorporates elements like CCTV, access control and alarm systems.  Most modern systems are connected to an IT network which allows remote connectivity and control of alarms and security cameras.

For example, an operation which has restricted areas within the premises or which uses equipment that is off-limits to unauthorised personnel would benefit from an integrated CCTV and access control system to ensure workplace compliance.  CCTV footage would provide evidence in the event of a breach and clients could be alerted via wireless communication to their smart devices or computer networks when there is a breach of access or alarm activation.

10. Administering the CCTV system

When installing a CCTV system, you will also need to think about what you do with the information that is gathered, how long you retain that information for and who will have access to the footage.  Individual rights have to be protected and storage has to be secure, plus you need to ensure that any monitors or footage are only accessible to designated individuals.

CCTV has a number of advantages for operations looking to improve their site security, access control and workplace compliance.  However, if the cameras aren’t installed properly and if the system isn’t appropriate for your business’s need, you won’t get the full benefits so it is worth speaking to an experienced security company like Crown Security before making any final decision.

Crown Security has considerable experience in commercial, industrial and domestic CCTV installations in Perth and offers a wide range of quality, affordable solutions which can be installed with minimal disruption to your operation.  Your CCTV cameras can be customised to suit your requirements and can be fully integrated with any alarm system to secure your premises and protect your employees, the workplace and your assets.  For more information about CCTV solutions for the workplace, contact Crown Security on 08 9400 6000