A warehouse allows a business to store valuable goods and machinery in a safe location, making them an essential part of any supply chain. However, as a place holding large quantities of high value goods, they are a prized target for opportunist criminals. As Brexit looms, UK warehouses are almost full as businesses stockpile goods amid the uncertainty, meaning more pickings for thieves. Any complication within a supply chain could be disastrous for a business. So, we’ve written a list of security measures to reduce the risk of any disruption.

Secure the perimeter

The first layer of defence for warehouses is often the perimeter of the premises. Erecting security fencing around the entire perimeter will (in most cases) deter even professional criminals from trying to gain entry to the compound. Ensure fencing is at least 7-foot-high and integrates an anti climb mesh and welded construction to make it more difficult to gain unauthorised entry. Vehicular access to the site can also be controlled with security barriers and gates at entrances. Using technology such as number plate recognition will allow authorised vehicles access.

CCTV

CCTV cameras are a big boost to security. Raising the risk of being identified and caught, they act as a great deterrent to thieves. Any information gathered can be passed onto Police for them to use as evidence to prosecute anyone caught. These should be used both internally and externally, as unfortunately not all employees are honest and may also steal.

Security alarms

A security alarm is designed to raise as much attention as possible, so is another good deterrent to intruders. However, if the warehouse is in an area where sound isn’t likely to be heard, a silent alarm linked directly to Police works just as well. This way, Police will be the first to attend and hope to catch an intruder red handed. Place signs around the warehouse to warn people of any alarms and make them think twice before attempting a break in.

Security guards

Although they are costly (due to wages and typically unsociable hours), security guards are one of the best deterrents to intruders. Security guards typically patrol the site at night while the site is quiet to ensure everything is in check. A constant human presence often scares intruders off due to the risk of being caught in the act.

Secure entrance and exits

Doors and windows are often the most vulnerable part of a building as they are the easiest entry point to break through. A security door is usually the last line of defence in stopping an intruder gaining access to a building. Robust TUFF-DOR and SECUR-DOR products are our security doorsets, designed to offer enhanced security for industrial and commercial sites. When fitted with appropriate hardware, these doorsets are capable of resisting attack for up to 10 minutes, with the intention of delaying and deterring all potential intruders.

Access control

Access control systems are a reliable way of ensuring only authorised personnel can access the facilities. Coming in the form of a passcode, fob or key card reader, some systems even enable managers to track who opened the door and when. However, only give access authorisation to trusted employees, as there is a risk of employees leaking codes or ‘losing’ cards. If an access control key falls into the hands of a potential intruder, theft may occur.