The good news is that crime rates within the UK Transportation and Storage sector dropped 16% between 2012 and 2016 (according to Home Office crime statistics), but this doesn’t mean companies should become complacent about their security arrangements.
There are a number of ways you can keep your warehouse secure. Start by looking at the potential areas of weakness; entry and delivery points, inventory storage, personnel and visitors.
Conduct a full security assessment or select a security company to review your requirements for you, and think about how the following could help you.
CCVT cameras: these can be located at key points inside and outside the building, especially covering doors, loading bays and any other access points. They can be recorded or monitored (or both) and CCTV monitoring is something you can outsource to a security company.
Locks: all doors and other access points should have secure locks, preferably with electronic passkeys to open them. You can then give staff members access to specific areas depending on their roles and the passkey can be easily disabled if lost.
Alarms: windows and doors should be fitted with security alarms; motion sensor lights can also be used inside and out, and fire alarms must be fitted throughout the building.
Security guards: guards can be employed directly or you can sub-contract to a security company. They can monitor entrance/exits, loading bays and carry out regular (but random) patrols of the building and grounds.
Staff checks: almost 20% of fraud within this sector is committed by employees. Carrying out background checks on all new staff is important, as is determining which areas of the building staff need access to. Make sure they all have ID badges to help security staff identify them.
Record visitors: put a signing in process in place for all visitors to the warehouse to make sure you know who is in the building at any time. You should also be wary of letting them walk around unattended.
Vehicle access: keep a record of vehicles entering the site and make sure security guards are informed about who to expect.
Stock checks: keep accurate records, monitor stock coming in and leaving, and don’t leave deliveries unattended. Carry out random stock audits.
Data security: the importance of data security is growing, make sure your systems are up to date, passwords are secure and changed regularly and if you are in any way unsure get an expert to review it.
Once your warehouse is fully secured don’t just leave it. This shouldn’t be a one-off process; regular security audits are important to make sure the measures you’ve put in place are working well. Reviewing your security arrangements will only improve them over time, keeping your business safe and helping reduce your insurance costs.
If you’d like to discuss improving your security please get in touch, we would be happy to arrange for an Area Manager to meet you and discuss your requirements.
