Introduction: The New Era of Office Security
Changing times and dynamic work environments have brought multiple challenges in making the work environment safer and more secure for the employees and staff. It’s not just the external factors but it encompasses issues caused by workplace diversity, differences in opinion, aggression, bullying, assault, and everything that happens in enclosed premises. Implementing office building remote surveillance has become crucial to address these challenges effectively.
Security Evolution: From Guards to Gadgets
The skyline of the modern metropolis is the gift of commercial activity. Earlier these activities were scattered over vast areas of land and securing these marketplaces was a hell of a job. There were labyrinths of tiny streets and criminals took the most advantage of the situation. Law enforcement had to increase their manpower in order to secure the premises.
Modern marketplaces are the epitome of architectural marvels, not only from the aesthetic point of view but security and safety as well. The 21st Century brought with it some challenges along with solutions. The introduction of IoTs has made it a lot easier for surveillance and security. Gone are the days when an army of security guards had to be hired to give protection. With the office, All your activities can be viewed from anywhere around the world.
Remote Surveillance: More than Just a Camera
Whenever we hear or read about security companies, we envision guards in uniform sitting behind display panels monitoring activity and in case of trouble swiftly moving toward the affected area. The psychological effect behind office building remote surveillance is phenomenal. It influences all the stakeholders involved directly/indirectly. The knowledge that your site is always under surveillance relieves the burden of doubt and makes everyone stress-free.
Why Should You Care?
Relief of protection is a blessing in disguise for all the customers. Being aware that nobody can do me any harm will enhance the shopping experience. Making customers and staff comfortable will automatically increase walk-in customers and businesses could easily hire talented employees.
Our office buildings are designed nowadays keeping protection and security in mind. So, be it data, goods, or people security is vital for everyone. Tailor-made CCTVs are available to cater to the dynamic building plans. Building owners are going to great lengths that no blank spots are left for CCTV coverage.
Innovations in Remote Surveillance
Integrating AI and IoT
The breakneck competition of remote surveillance providers is the key to understanding the demands raised by businesses. For example, a friend of mine is looking for a surveillance company specializing in babysitting services. As for the OEM providers, they are integrating different software incorporating artificial intelligence in their CCTVs. Office-building remote surveillance systems analyze human behavior and prevent nuisances from occurring in the first place.
Brain Behind the Eyes
Currently, the human eye behind the screen is the accepted gold standard. When it comes to behavior prediction it’s very speculative and inconsistent. The person sitting behind the camera would be the one making decisions according to his own understanding of the situation. That opinion may differ from person to person.
Algorithms are designed for the future where computers will alone take corrective measures of the given situation provided with the database of human judgments.
Surveillance on the go
Latest upgrades in-network providers have made it possible for the gadgets to give live monitoring while in motion. E.g., Window cleaning of high-rise buildings is a dangerous job demanding thorough monitoring and wind speed. If this task is taken casually it may result in workers casualty. It happened recently in Wuhan, Hubei province, China where 2 workers lost life while cleaning windows for a 46-story building.
Dividends of Remote Surveillance in Office Buildings
Never Off the Clock
Security providing has in itself become a sought-after industry. They are coming up with different ideas and technologies targeting their niche market. A feature that’s common in every company is to shift this liability to a third party that provides 24/7 continuous office building remote surveillance.
Real-Time Notifications
Security providers are finding new ways to effectively and efficiently notify their clients of the updates at their sites. Perhaps relaying information is the lifeline in remote monitoring. Clients when not available on the premises demand complete awareness of the work behind their backs. Notifications are sent in the format of instant msgs, video clips, and emails, or in case of emergency, authorities are contacted directly on the client’s behalf.
Access Control
The most sought-after benefit of securing buildings is access control. For these, there are access cards, license plate scanners, biometric/retina scans, and much more. These are all different layers of controls implemented to check who is entering or leaving the building.
Evidence Analytics
Raw footage is of no use to anyone until there is someone to analyze its contents and then present the findings in a mutually intelligible mode of communication. Modern surveillance ecosystems have dedicated teams of SMEs who promptly analyze video surveillance and share their findings with the coordination officer.
Cost Cutting
Affective security with minimum guards
The advent of CCTVs has significantly decreased reliance on boots on the floor. Especially for sites with large ground to cover installation of CCTVs would be a viable option. Human observance is limited due to mobility but CCTVs not only track huge areas but with the help of AI can identify abnormal behavior too.
Insurance Premiums
Properly monitored sites with CCTVs are encouraged by insurance providers as there is very little risk of criminal activity or vandalism. Offices in search of solutions to decrease costs hire these third-party surveillance providers and reduce their insurance premiums.
Scalable solutions
As the business grows so does the supervision. If a plant is commissioning new assembly line equipment they have to provide additional supervision too. The cost of hiring a dedicated person for this task is too high, so supervision is considered electronically through CCTVs. It not only relieves operation burden but increases efficiency too.
Addressing Common Concerns
Privacy Concerns
It’s a challenging task to prepare an office building live video surveillance plan of a building without infringing on employee’s privacy. Modern security cameras have become increasingly sophisticated, one of their features being the ability to capture and record in high resolution.
While the advanced capabilities of security cameras are highly effective in identifying criminals when a crime occurs, they may also capture and record more information than necessary in everyday life.
For example, if an office building installs a security camera near the entrance for security purposes, it is conceivable that not only the people entering and exiting but also those walking nearby could be clearly captured.
If the footage captured and recorded by a security camera can identify a specific individual, it falls under the category of “personal information” as defined by the US Personal Information Protection Law. “Personal information” requires proper handling and management in accordance with the law, and failure to do so could lead to an invasion of privacy.
Data Encryption
With the increasing adoption of Internet-connected cameras (IP cameras), ensuring robust cybersecurity measures is paramount. Protecting surveillance cameras and the data they capture from unauthorized access and cyber threats is vital to maintaining the integrity of recorded footage and safeguarding sensitive information. A comprehensive cybersecurity framework prevents potential cyberattacks, ensuring that video surveillance systems remain reliable and secure.
Case Studies: Success Stories in Remote Office Surveillance
Red Hawk Installs New Surveillance System for Office in Sacramento, CA
Red Hawk recently worked with ACE Hardware, an equipment distributor in Sacramento, CA to install a new video surveillance system for the client’s main office and warehouse.
The customer had CCTV in place, but they wanted to have the ability to monitor their premises and supervise and view their camera feed remotely. Remote viewing capabilities are a must for many businesses today, as they allow owners and managers to proactively monitor the video feed without actually being on the premises.
The client is able to view their video feed remotely and play with the angle of the cameras using the Hikvision interface to monitor developing incidents and act accordingly.
Future of Office Security
The convergence of digital security is essential for businesses to create a comprehensive and streamlined security solution. Integrating digital security systems, leveraging advanced analytics, embracing cloud-based solutions, and prioritizing cybersecurity, allow office buildings to enhance overall protection and optimize their business operations. Organizations can stay one step ahead and ensure a secure and resilient environment for their employees, assets, and operations.
At Red Hawk, we understand the importance of leveraging technology to streamline 24/7 office building remote surveillance solutions. We are committed to providing the most effective and reliable security solutions, tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you in enhancing overall protection for your organization.
FAQs
1. How does remote surveillance improve office security?
There are many benefits of using office building real-time video surveillance.
- Improved Safety & Security: The use of remote video surveillance increases the safety and security of a site, especially if it is being professionally monitored.
- Car Parking: Car parking has its associated risks such as stolen cars, break-ins, and hit-and-runs. Remote video surveillance can identify culprits and allow any incidents to be acted upon quickly.
- Better Customer Service: Employees want to feel safe and secure, which video surveillance can help achieve. Among other things, remote video surveillance can help staff/customers feel safer.
- Reduced Labor Costs on Physical Personnel: Businesses save costs on physical personnel with remote video surveillance. Onsite security may not be needed or can be reduced due to their job being able to be carried out remotely.
- Improved Health & Safety: Remote health and safety patrols via video surveillance can identify any issues or potential hazards before they become an issue, therefore improving the safety of a property.
- Respond to Issues in Real-Time: The ability to view video footage in real-time allows sites and businesses to respond to issues as they happen, from anywhere in the world. For instance, real-time monitoring of entrances, car parks, and hallways can help to prevent vandalism and keep employees safe. In a non-security context, it can ensure building personnel or groundkeeping duties are kept on schedule.
- Reduce Maintenance Costs: Sites can reduce their maintenance costs by using remote video surveillance to identify any issues before they become a bigger problem, thus acting as a preventive tool.
2. Can remote surveillance systems be integrated with existing security measures?
Video surveillance and access control systems from Red Hawk can easily integrate with existing CCTV setup, ensuring the building is monitored, and more. For example, some access control systems allow users to enter only if the system has approved them, via biometric verification or identity card.
This provides peace of mind for businesses and employees alike – knowing that no one unauthorized will be able to get inside without proper clearance.
Security cameras record what goes on inside and act as deterrents against crime or vandalism. They also give businesses valuable footage, so they can track down perpetrators should anything happen while someone is away from work or during off-peak hours.
3. What are the main challenges in implementing remote surveillance?
Remote surveillance relies on the exchange of business data or services outside of the corporate infrastructure, typically over the Internet. It can be achieved through a variety of client devices, including many that are outside the organization’s control.
The remote environment in which these devices are used may also pose risks. For example, security concerns may exist around:
Lack of physical security controls – creating a risk of device loss or theft
Eavesdropping – as the information travels over the public internet
Unauthorized access to systems or data – perhaps overlooking the screen
Monitoring and manipulation of data – if someone gains access to the device
Red Hawk adapts the stringiest cyber security measures to meet the unique challenges of remote access and data security.
4. What should I consider when choosing a remote surveillance provider?
Consider factors such as the size and layout of your building, potential vulnerabilities, and any specific security concerns you may have. Conducting a comprehensive evaluation will help you determine the type and extent of measures required to safeguard your premises effectively
