Securing your premises - checklist

Break-ins and theft are distressing for any property owner - but they could also threaten the survival of your business if you lose key equipment or data. Learn how to keep your premises protected.

• Find out what advice the local police can offer on premises design, security measures, and local problems to look out for.
• Assess your level of risk: for example, whether you have valuable equipment or handle cash, and whether you are in a high crime area.
• Check your insurer's requirements: for example, what kind of alarm system and locks you must have.
• Make sure that you have a suitable external boundary, and control public access to your grounds.
• Check for hidden recesses and poor visibility, especially around access points and areas such as car parking; consider using external lighting.
• Consider whether you need closed circuit cameras; if so, ensure that your use of CCTV complies with data protection requirements.
• Control external access to upper levels and the roof, for example by using anti-climb paint.
• Protect doors and windows with suitable locks; consider whether shutters or grilles are necessary (and get any necessary planning permission for them).
• Install an appropriate alarm system.
• Establish security procedures, including who will hold keys and who will be responsible for locking up; consider whether you need security personnel.
• Take steps to control visitors to your premises: for example, signing-in procedures (for an office) or mirrors to cover blind spots (in a shop).
• Protect employee safety: for example, by providing panic buttons and implementing a policy on lone working.
• Minimise the risks to valuable, easily stolen items like laptop computers: security mark them, keep them out of sight, or lock them away.
• Ensure any cash is handled sensibly: minimise the amount of cash held on the premises, establish sensible cash-handling routines and, if necessary, install a safe.
• Review your security measures to ensure that emergency escape routes are not compromised.
• Train staff in security procedures, including how to deal with emergencies.
• Carry out regular external inspections: check that access points are secure, repair any damage, and remove any graffiti and rubbish.
• Arrange for the alarm system to be regularly maintained and tested.
• Consider working with other local businesses to reduce risks, for example by joining a local crime prevention scheme.