Any business will know the importance of a hardworking and robust security system. But with so many components and individual systems involved, such as intruder alarms, CCTV cameras and access control, management of all these systems can be challenging. Enter integrated security, which looks to provide easy management of advanced security systems. Keep reading to find out all you need to know and how an integrated security system can help your business be more efficient.
Integrated security is the integration of various and individual security systems and components into one central control system. Each system is interconnected and therefore can all be managed in one place. CCTV cameras, access control, intruder alarms, fire alarms and more can all be controlled through one central system, enabling increased business efficiency and optimisation.
Integrated security systems can also be professionally monitored which allows for all components and sub-systems to be easily monitored for faults and activations through one system, 24/7 and 365 days a year. This unified approach is particularly vital for high-risk environments; for example, in logistics, where managing vast warehouse spaces and fleet movements requires a seamless link between perimeter fencing and internal surveillance.
With an integrated security system, all individual components and sub-systems are connected to a central control system, either through a landline or over a cellular network. They all communicate and work with each other, sharing key data and information, to maximise their security potential. Why cloud-based security is safer than on-premise is a key consideration here, as modern systems increasingly rely on the cloud to provide real-time updates and remote accessibility without the need for bulky on-site servers.
For example, the intruder alarm system can work in tandem with an access control system to maximise both their potential in the event of an intruder. Wherever the intruder alarm is activated, access control can allow for the area to be secured automatically in order to trap the intruder. This level of automation is why many businesses are looking into access control installation that can talk directly to their existing fire and security infrastructure.
The ability to control all components at one central point with an integrated security system allows for a greater layer of protection for a business, its assets and its employees. As well as improved security, an integrated security system will improve overall business efficiency and productivity.
An integrated security system also allows for all components to be monitored effectively. Instead of individual monitoring contracts for each sub-system, one monitoring contract can be put in place that takes care of and overlooks all components. Therefore, whatever the time of day, your business will be protected from any criminal activity. This streamlined oversight is a cornerstone of commercial security trends, where the focus has shifted toward preventative, data-driven protection rather than reactive measures.
An integrated security system can therefore be greatly beneficial to a business, due to improving the safety and security of a site, as well as reducing the risk of the ongoing impacts of crime. According to the latest GOV UK commercial victimisation survey, 19% of business premises in the UK were victims of crime in the last year, with theft and burglary remaining significant threats. Furthermore, the Guardian has reported that retail theft alone reached record highs recently, highlighting the urgent need for robust, interconnected deterrents. This makes security for retail environments particularly critical, where systems must handle high footfall while protecting stock.
All systems working together creates a more secure and effective layer of protection for a business, site and employees. When your intruder alarms are integrated with fire safety systems, the building can react intelligently to different emergencies, ensuring exits are clear during a fire while remaining locked during a security breach.
The ability to oversee all systems within one central control point allows for easier management, compared to accessing various systems. Users can access an overview of the business’ security situation and view all components in one place. This is especially useful in the education sector, where site managers often need to control multiple buildings from a single dashboard.
Using one system to control all security sub-systems can be more cost-effective than using one for each system. Time-saving benefits can also result in cost savings in the long run. By choosing a single provider for intruder alarm maintenance and other services, businesses can significantly reduce their annual service spend.
Like all security systems, they can be a real deterrent to criminals. If they observe a high-tech integrated system in place, they’re likely to move on to a new target. Recent data shows that certain UK regions remain hotspots for commercial burglary, making a visible, integrated presence a vital first line of defence.
Integrated systems allow for better business productivity due to having more streamlined processes and management capabilities in place. For those managing complex sites, understanding what is predictive maintenance can help avoid downtime, as the system can flag potential issues before they cause a failure.
The combination of key systems working together and sharing data allows for a business to identify key site trends. In healthcare facilities, for example, integrated data can show how people move through a building, helping to optimise staff rotas and patient safety. For a deeper look at how to maximise these insights, you may find our guide on the role of CCTV in enhancing business security highly beneficial.
With all sub-systems connected and controlled via one central system, this reduces the need for a physical security presence on a site. Automation handles the heavy lifting, from locking doors at a set time to verifying identities via biometric access.
Yes, we specialise in integrated security systems, known as connected managed services at BusinessWatch. We can connect all of your security and fire safety systems to our central system so that they can work collaboratively and be remotely managed for activations as well as faults.
Read more about our NSI Approved services or learn more about our accreditations here to see why we are the trusted choice for UK businesses.
