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Business Security

There are many ways to reduce opportunities for crime and increase safety in your business. Here are some tips:

  • Building design and layout
  • Have an open, uncluttered environment with a clear, well lit view of the premises, particularly the sales area, from both within and outside the building.
  • Rear access points should be well lit.
  • Make sure that members of the public cannot gain access to staff rooms, stock rooms, behind the counter areas etc.
  • Sales counters should be monitored and secured at all times.
  • Raised platforms and deep counters can provide added safety for staff.
  • Make sure members of the public can't see into the register, and that they can't reach into it.
  • Display signs advising customers to 'Remove helmets before entering the building' and saying 'Minimum cash kept on premises'.
  • Security devices
  • Make sure that locks on store rooms, rear access points, doors and windows are of suitable strength - and that they are used at all times.
  • Install electronic sensors to alert staff to customers at times of slow business.
  • Consider installing a closed circuit television (CCTV) security system - this can act as a deterrent for offenders as well as provide evidence if there is any criminal activity.
  • Make sure that any CCTV system is of the best quality affordable (poor quality images could restrict their effectiveness), is regularly maintained and that no items block the camera view.
  • Convex mirrors can be used to monitor blind spots but make sure they don't show cash handling procedures.
  • Consider using security alarms and surveillance devices (e.g. monitored alarms)
  • Lock internal office doors and windows and secure the premises when unattended.

Safety for Staff

It is not always possible to be protected from all harm, but there are reasonable measures you can take to reduce risk to personal safety in businesses. Train your staff to become security aware. Make sure they:

  • Take extra care when opening or closing the business, including checking for unwanted intruders that may be hiding in toilets or other isolated locations
  • Know how to use any alarms and security devices
  • Do not discuss cash handling procedures or security measures with any person not connected to the business
  • Know what to do in case there is an attempted robbery
  • Advise other staff when they are leaving the premises at night
  • Have clear policies on critical issues such as dealing with shoplifters, handling aggressive customers and cash handling
  • Establish and maintain a cooperative relationship with local police
  • Return all keys and staff passes when they leave your employment

Licensed premises security

Security management is crucial to running a successful licensed venue.

12 security considerations for licensed venues:

  • Licensee employ consultant for advice on security and training
  • Security staff located strategically throughout venue
  • Video surveillance and recording with entrance audio Radio communication
  • System for police report
  • Flashing lights on all exits Written and oral instructions to all staff Incident register maintained
  • Procedures for emergencies and high risk situations
  • First aid training and appropriate facilities
  • Ongoing training of staff including RSA and conflict management
  • Appropriate gender representation in the team.

Management Factors

  1. Intoxication
  2. Violence
  3. Behaviour of security staff
  4. Weapons
  5. Underage
  6. Risk Taking behaviour by patrons
  7. Alcohol and violence

73% of violent incidents involve alcohol. Violence is predominately a male phenomenon.

Individuals at Higher risk to be involved in public safety incidents are

  1. Males
  2. can be Intoxicated
  3. Strangers 1
  4. 7-25 years old
  5. incidents usually occur after 1am

Source: Australian Institute of Public Safety