Why Every Business Needs a CCTV Security System

Gone are the days of just locking your doors and hoping for the best. If you want to make sure you’re keeping your business, staff and data as safe and secure as possible, CCTV is a great first step to an upgraded security system.

CCTV offers a visible deterrent to criminals, and it’s been proven that it helps reduce crime in areas where it’s installed. So whether you run a small shop or a large industrial site, Commercial CCTV could be a game changer in protecting your business and helping prevent break-ins and vandalism from happening in the first place.

In this guide, we’ll explain why every business should consider installing a CCTV system, and we’ll talk about the key legal considerations you need to be aware of. And of course, we’ll let you know how Midland Fire can help you meet your security goals.

What is a CCTV Security System?

Break-ins and robberies have always been a problem for business owners, and a top-quality CCTV system allows you to keep an eye on your premises at all times, whether you’re on-site or working remotely.

So how do they work? In short, CCTV (or Closed Circuit Television) is a system of cameras that record footage around a premises. That footage is then transmitted to monitors or stored on local or cloud-based storage for later viewing. The latest commercial CCTV security systems offer high-definition pictures, infrared night vision and remote access via mobile apps, and they can also be linked to your security alarms, fire systems and 24/7 monitoring centres.

The Key Benefits of Installing a CCTV Security System for Your Business

A well-placed and professionally installed CCTV security system can prevent crime before it happens. Knowing their activity will be detected, many criminals will avoid targeting businesses with visible security measures. And worse comes to worst, if you spot a wrongdoer at your business premises, you’re able to use the CCTV footage to up your chances of catching them.

Let’s take a further look at the benefits of installing CCTV at your commercial property:

• Deters crime: Visible cameras discourage theft, vandalism and trespassing.
• Staff and customer safety: You’re able to monitor entrances, exits and public areas for added security.
• Safeguards assets: Keep an eye on valuable stock, equipment or cash handling areas to reduce the risk of financial loss.
• Evidence collection: High-definition footage helps police and insurers if an incident occurs.
• Remote monitoring: Manage your business security from anywhere using a real-time app or online platform.
• Rapid response: Alerts security teams in real time, increasing the chance of deterring criminals.
• System integration: Link CCTV with your fire alarms and intruder systems for next-level safety and security.
• Peace of mind: Most importantly, you can sleep soundly at night, safe in the knowledge that you’re keeping your business as secure as possible.

The Types of CCTV Systems Available for Businesses

There are several different types of CCTV systems and cameras available to suit various business needs, and at Midland Fire, we ensure every commercial CCTV installation uses high-quality, future-proofed technology. From discreet dome cameras inside offices to vandal- and weather-proof bullet cameras covering car parks, there’s a CCTV solution to suit every business.

Here’s an overview of the CCTV types and technologies available:

24/7 Monitoring and Remote Access: How CCTV Keeps You in Control

A key advantage of modern CCTV systems is their ability to give you round-the-clock protection as well as the power to check on your site from anywhere in the world.

You’re able to download an app to manage your CCTV system, for instant alerts to your phone or desktop if a threat is detected, allowing you to access live or recorded footage remotely. And CCTV systems can also be linked to a 24/7 control centre that monitors for suspicious activity with security experts ready to act if need be.

Legal Considerations: What You Need to Know Before Installing CCTV

Before installing CCTV, it’s important that you understand your responsibilities under GDPR and data protection laws. For example, clear signage, responsible footage management and defined usage policies are essential. That’s where working with an experienced security system installation company like Midland Fire is highly recommended.

The key considerations are outlined below:

• Data protection: CCTV footage is considered personal data under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.
• Signage: You must inform people they are being recorded – clear signs are a legal requirement.
• Purpose limitation: CCTV should only be used for specified purposes (e.g. preventing crime or staff safety).
• Access control: Only authorised personnel should have access to footage.
• Retention period: Footage must not be kept longer than necessary – typically 30 days unless required for an investigation.
• Granting access: You must share your footage with the relevant authorities when requested, or anyone who thinks they might have been filmed.
• CCTV policy: Businesses should have a CCTV policy outlining usage, storage and access rules.

Choose Midland Fire for Your CCTV Installation

We are an electrical contractor specialised in installing state-of-the-art commercial CCTV installations, designed to meet the highest security standards.

Our expert security engineers can map out a bespoke system that ensures all areas of your premises are monitored, working in sync with your existing security alarm and fire prevention systems. We’ll choose the cameras best suited to your business, help you install an app to monitor your CCTV in real time, and set up local or cloud-based recording storage software.

We also ensure that our solutions are scalable so you can add and upgrade cameras as you grow.

Whatever the shape or size of your business, contact us for CCTV security system design, installation and maintenance.

25 years of experience
We’ve been protecting people and businesses since 1999.

Expert engineers
Each of our 30 engineers is a time served electrician and an experienced security engineer.

Full support from start to finish
We’ll effectively manage each stage of your project from consultation and design to installation, certification and maintenance.

Quality products
Midland Fire only supplies products from reputable brands that we know will future proof your business.

Looking for Security Specialists to Help Protect Your Business?

Our team is on hand for all your security needs. We provide a free consultation, in which our experienced engineers will assess your site and advise you on the best solution for your business. We will then go on to design and install your CCTV security system, providing you with ongoing maintenance and support once the system is in place.

We also offer fire risk assessments and a range of life safety services, making sure your company is the safest it can possibly be at all times.

At Midland Fire WE PROTECT. Contact us today for your free consultation.

 

Your Burning Questions Answered

Do I need a CCTV system for my business?
CCTV is a key security measure to help protect your property, staff and assets, and it may be required by your insurance provider too.

Is CCTV needed for my small business?
Yes, CCTV can protect businesses of all sizes, not just large ones. Small businesses are often targets for opportunistic crime, which CCTV can help prevent. It can also monitor customer interactions to protect your team, or act as evidence in case of workplace disputes or accidents – it’s not only about catching criminals.

Can I monitor my CCTV remotely?
Absolutely. Midland Fire installs CCTV systems with remote access apps, so you can check in anytime.

Is CCTV footage subject to GDPR?
Yes, under the Data Protection Act and UK GDPR, you must handle CCTV footage carefully, with proper signage and usage policies.

How long should CCTV footage be stored?
Typically, footage is stored for 30 days, unless needed for an ongoing investigation.

Do I need a professional security contractor to install my CCTV system?
It’s highly recommended that you choose an experienced security contractor to install your CCTV. Professional installation guarantees that your system is set up correctly and adheres to GDPR and data protection rules.

Do you offer CCTV maintenance and monitoring?
Yes, Midland Fire provides full system maintenance and 24/7 monitoring services to keep your system running smoothly.