Here is a question I’ve been asking myself for over 30 years:

Why are businesses so reactive to loss prevention instead of being proactive?

I know many business owners view security and loss prevention only as a “cost center” and fail to see the potential ROI.

The fact is that if you open any type of business, you’re going to lose money directly or indirectly.

Why?

Internally speaking, you cannot control the actions of people you know or hire to work for you. Nobody is perfect; therefore, you run the risk of people you may trust ripping you off.

Externally, we know there are people who will stop at nothing from ripping people off, whether it’s information, products, or just causing damage.

How can you be proactive about your physical security and prevent losses at your business without breaking the bank?

  1. Get an alarm system.
    Okay, first ask yourself, ‘What would it cost for me to be out of business for one day, week, etc?’ Probably a lot. Although it’s not inexpensive, a monitored alarm system will minimize the time an intruder has in your business and keep your employees honest.
  2. Change your locks.
    When was the last time the locks were changed at your business? Did you ever change them when you moved in? How many employees have you gone through since your locks were installed?
  3. Create an access log. Make sure to keep track of all key-holders and document the serial number on their key and the date they received it. Also keep track of their security code to your alarm system.
  4. Keep some lights on.
    Do you shut off ALL of your lights when you leave at night? Leave a light on inside, and install motion lights in front and in back of your facility, preferably above the doors.
  5. Lock it up. 
    What has the most value at your business:
  • Inventory
  • Customer information
  • Cash
  • Proprietary information
  • ALL OF THE ABOVE!

Make sure it’s secure and accounted for. Everything on the inside of your business has value. Remember, just the hassle of dealing with a break-in will cost you time and money because time is money.