The security market is a growing field. Both physical and cyber attacks seem to be increasing in number, but the solutions offered are getting smarter and stronger for residential and commercial buildings alike. While a security system might seem to provide the same protection for all buildings, there are a few differences that distinguish the two according to the different needs of residential and commercial buildings.
1. Commercial Buildings Have Complex Security Needs
Simply put, commercial buildings have more complex needs when it comes to keeping the building secure. These buildings are usually in high-traffic areas and depending on their services they provide or possess, they could be more attractive to burglars. The building’s location also plays a role in safety. This might be obvious, but if the building is in an area with higher crime rates, the building will require that much more safety measures to maintain safety.
If you’re a property owner, one of the best things you can do is to walk around the area your building is in and take note of potential safety risks like abandoned buildings and parking lots. Also, take note of the security measures other surrounding buildings put in place. Don’t be afraid to ask other property managers in your area about the systems they use.
With complex needs, alarm systems for commercial buildings are advanced and comprehensive in that there are multiple layers of safety measures throughout the building. As soon as employees and visitors walk in, video surveillance cameras are recording every move, controlled access cards are used to monitor movement throughout the facility and limit where people can go, and other measures to keep track of who’s who and where they go.
2. Residential Areas Have Built-In Security Measures
Many residential areas have neighborhood watch programs, which is an effective way to keep an eye on safety 24/7. Unless commercial buildings hire costly overnight security guards, these buildings don’t have access to watch programs as most people are gone when the workday is over.
Additionally, residential areas are safer places organically because the only people coming in and out of the neighborhood and homes are the people who live in them and their invited guests. That’s the biggest difference. Not everyone who has access to commercial buildings is invited or welcomed. The only people who have access to private residences should be the ones who live there and they act as the gate-keeper, only letting in people they know and trust. In the case of forced entry, there are home alarm systems to prevent and alert residents and local authorities of incidents.
3. Potential Threats Are Different
While the goal of alarm systems is primarily to protect occupants of homes and buildings, the scale of potential threats vastly differ. Offices require systems in place that protect everyone in the building from break-ins to fires to chemical spills, depending on the company they work for and the risks they may be exposed to. For residential areas, the greatest potential threats can be contained to break-ins and fires. Depending on where you live, other natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and flooding will pose a greater risk as well.
The secondary goal of alarm systems is to protect property, including the structure of the facility and valuable property within the building. This doesn’t differ from the need to protect residences from these things except for the fact that it will exist on a larger scale for commercial buildings.
No matter the threats that pose a greater risk and likelihood to your house or commercial business, there are ways you can prepare. Although commercial buildings have complex security needs, their security system doesn’t have to be complicated. Sonitrol’s electronic security products are verified and our success is proven. Ensure the safety of your business today by registering for our free business security assessment.