Protect your business against crime

Your business should have adequate security and safety procedures and staff should be made aware of them. This could be anything from a simple procedure like locking a delivery door immediately after deliveries, or a more complex procedure like using security staff or an alarm system.

Locking up after close of business

You should also have a set procedure for securing your business premises. This should involve checking that all doors and windows are locked, lights and computers are switched off and the alarm and any other security measures are switched on. Pay special attention to areas where you store combustible materials or rubbish. Regularly test fire and smoke detectors to make sure they work.

You should consider a security plan to protect both equipment and information, such as:

• removing equipment from a vehicle overnight
• storing equipment securely
• locking the equipment room
• encouraging staff to be vigilant

Using signs as a security measure

A well-placed sign can help put off a criminal. For example, you could use signs stating:

• all properties are marked and easy to identify
• no cash is held on the premises
• staff have no access to the safe
• all tools removed from this vehicle
• closed-circuit television (CCTV) in operation
• no stock left overnight

All employees should be aware of their security duties and you should check that your security measures are followed.

When necessary, employees should dial 999 or get help quickly by using an alarm. They should also try to write down information about the incident and secure CCTV footage and the scene until the police arrive.

For more information, see business continuity and crisis management.