Retail Security: A Fresh Approach

Total security solutions

The Situation

Burglary, loss-prevention, vandalism and staff protection are common daily challenges faced by Security Managers for retail outlets, hotels and casinos.

To manage these issues, it’s vital that they can check and control their security systems around the clock from any location.

To support this, they need easy-to-use security systems with the right capabilities and in-built flexibility.

Integration is key

Individually, CCTV camera systems offer a visible, preventive effect but when combined with an intrusion system, together they enable total security monitoring, both internal and external.

Conversely, where one security system is already in place and another subsequently added – but not integrated – the result can be a sub-optimal security solution.

iVMS 4200 is our unique integration platform that enables total security control by combining video and intrusion in one app. Cameras and detectors can easily be configured and switched between, minimising time to react and cost to a business when alarm events are triggered.

CCTV cameras

A visible deterrent often installed at key access points such as entrances and emergency exits, cameras also monitor the store environment whilst offering additional benefits by recording footage or images to aid investigations or act as evidence.

But with such a wide choice of security cameras available, without expert advice it can be difficult choosing the best product for your situation.

Pyronix Hikvision is an expert in security cameras globally and as such, is perfectly placed to support with free help and advice. We're ready whenever you need assistance to create your total security solution.

Intrusion Systems

A versatile, flexible intrusion system is essential to protect your personnel, store and stock effectively.

During business hours, for easy operation, retailers can choose to arm individual areas such as the shop floor, storerooms and emergency exits.

Individual arming enables shoppers to access the retail parts of the store whilst protecting areas where valuable stock may be stored.

It also provides controlled access to maintenance or cleaning services during specific hours – conveniently and securely.

The Challenges

Typical operational and management issues with discrete or non-integrated systems are:

1. Learning several systems
Where separate intrusion and CCTV systems are installed, users need to learn how to operate both, since each will have its own proprietary software. This can be difficult to manage, taking more time and effort, particularly where personnel are inexperienced with such systems. It can also add cost to the operation. 
2. Protection of video footage
Where cameras are installed, management is likely to require recorded video footage to be easily transferable to a separate hard drive, in case of robbery or theft from the store. Footage may then be used in investigations or as evidence.
3. False alarms or no detection
  • Detectors which rely on a single detection technology have a higher propensity to generate false alarms from random events in public areas, which can reduce the urgency of response. The cause of such false alarms can also be difficult to identify, especially in bigger sites.
  • As employees may not be aware of how detectors work, sometimes boxes or other obstacles may be placed in front of the detector, inadvertently blocking its ability to detect.
  • Burglars may also try to block detection on purpose using tape or spray, in order to compromise the security system.
4. Unfamiliarity with security systems
Many people are unfamiliar with alarm systems, some are even afraid to operate them. In most situations, multiple personnel will need to be able to arm/disarm the security system to enter areas and complete their work. Retailers can therefore benefit from fully integrated camera and intrusion systems with user-friendly arming interfaces that are quick and easy to operate.

 

Keeping it simple and easy-to-use is critically important to ensure overall effectiveness.