Top 5 Physical Risks for Businesses

In recent years, internet and cyber security has become a hot topic. Ransomware, malware, phishing, and other malicious software all present very credible threats to businesses. And a failure to address these types of issues can, indeed, leave businesses in hot water.

However, while cybersecurity is an important part of protecting your business, it should never be a replacement for physical security. Here are five of the most credible physical security threats to brick and mortar sites, and key actions you can take to deter them.

1) Theft and burglary

One of the most prevalent forms of crime against businesses is that of theft. Theft, even in small amounts, can cause huge disruption to your operations. Cash or asset losses affect not only the overall health of your business. This can also affect customer confidence, and undermine the morale of your employees.

2) Vandalism

Vandalism can encompass a broad range of activities, many that can be toxic to your business. Graffiti is the most obvious, as well as small acts of arson, the smashing of windows or doors, structural damage, fly tipping and more. Any business can be a victim of vandalism, but properties that are isolated or currently unoccupied are particularly at risk.

3) Arson

Arson can completely devastate buildings, gut them entirely of any stock or equipment and endanger human life. However, what you might not know is that not all arson attacks are opportunistic. Many are planned out in advance, and sometimes even targeted due to a dislike or slight against a company. Fires can spread very quickly, which is why in this case, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of the cure.

4) Unauthorized entry

Not all crimes happen during the twilight hours. Without proper restrictions in place, unauthorised visitors can make their way into your buildings and go on to commit crime. This can include theft of assets, destruction of property, or even assault against members of your workforce. Some crimes may even slip under the radar entirely.

5) Terrorism
For businesses in highly visible sectors such as governmental organisations, acts of terrorism remain a present danger. Terrorists seek to cause disruption and fear, making any governmental building a possible target due to their high profile and connection to power. Other targets might include sites with high traffic, including; schools and universities, nightclubs and arenas, or any infrastructure that is critical to the UK’s power and water supplies.

Preparing for the worst

With dwindling Police force budgets across the country, and mounting paperwork on their desks, it is understandable that stretched officers can no longer respond to crimes as quickly as they might have once done. However, this simply further underlines the importance of acting before the event with preventative measures such as physical perimeter security.

Security starts at your perimeter and tough measures can act as a deterrent to criminals looking to gain entry to a site. Interior and exterior protections such as gates and turnstiles can limit access to approved visitors. Vehicular access can be controlled through automatic barriers, rising kerbs and road blockers. While pedestrian access can be managed through keypads, biometrics and fobs, to name just a few of the solutions available.

It can be difficult to know where to start, so a business’s first port of call when addressing their needs should be to arrange a risk assessment through a qualified and experienced provider. Here at Gateway Automation we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security requirements. To find out more please contact Gateway Automation on 01522 682255.