Internal theft is a significant threat to businesses of all sizes. In fact, studies have shown that internal theft is often more costly than external crimes like shoplifting or burglaries. Employees, or even trusted contractors, may steal from the business in various ways – from pilfering small items to committing larger-scale fraud. Thankfully, security guard companies play a crucial role in protecting your business from such threats. By offering comprehensive security measures, including surveillance, access control, and constant vigilance, these companies help ensure that internal theft is minimized or prevented altogether.
The Role of Security Guard Companies in Preventing Internal Theft
One of the primary services that security guard companies offer is the deployment of highly trained professionals who monitor your business around the clock. These guards are not only tasked with preventing external threats but also keeping an eye on internal activities to detect suspicious behaviors or fraudulent activities. Here’s a closer look at how they help:
1. Surveillance and Monitoring
Security guards are often stationed at key points within a business, including entrances, exits, storage areas, and cash registers. Using advanced surveillance systems, they monitor employees’ actions throughout the workday. In many cases, security guards also review CCTV footage to look for any signs of theft, tampering, or other suspicious activities.
Security guard companies ensure that the surveillance equipment is maintained and optimized to capture clear footage at all times. This visual evidence is invaluable in both detecting internal theft and providing proof if it occurs.
2. Access Control and Employee Screening
Controlling who enters and exits certain areas of the business is crucial in preventing theft. Security guard companies play a significant role in this by implementing effective access control systems. Guards ensure that only authorized personnel can enter sensitive areas such as stockrooms, safes, or IT departments, where theft is more likely to occur.
Additionally, security guard companies can assist in screening employees during the hiring process. They can perform background checks and other necessary verifications to identify any potential risk factors. This proactive approach helps in reducing the likelihood of hiring individuals who may have a history of dishonest behavior.
3. Monitoring Employee Behavior
Security guards are trained to observe behavior, which can be a key indicator of potential theft. For instance, they might notice an employee acting unusually around expensive merchandise or behaving defensively when asked about their work. By maintaining a constant presence, guards can deter potential thieves by ensuring that any inappropriate behavior is quickly detected and addressed.
Regular monitoring of employees during their shifts can also discourage them from taking advantage of opportunities for theft. Knowing that someone is always watching can dissuade even the most determined individual from engaging in illegal activities.
4. Conducting Internal Inspections
Security guard companies also assist in conducting internal inspections of stockrooms, cash registers, and other areas prone to theft. These random inspections can help identify any discrepancies in inventory, cash flow, or other areas that might indicate internal theft. Guards can also conduct periodic walkthroughs to check for any signs of tampering, whether in the form of broken locks, missing goods, or altered records.
By establishing a routine of regular checks, businesses send a clear message to employees that theft will not be tolerated. The fear of getting caught during an unexpected inspection is often enough to prevent internal theft from happening.
5. Creating a Deterrent Through Visible Security Presence
Sometimes, the mere presence of security personnel can deter potential thieves. When employees are aware that there are security guards on-site monitoring their actions, they are less likely to engage in any criminal activity. Security guard companies work closely with businesses to ensure that guards are positioned in high-traffic areas, creating a constant reminder of security.
This visible security presence often extends to the use of uniformed officers, whose presence serves as a powerful deterrent. Additionally, employees who know they are being watched are less likely to take risks, knowing that the consequences could be severe.
6. Implementing Security Protocols
A professional security guard company doesn’t just provide physical security – they also assist in developing comprehensive security protocols. These protocols outline best practices for preventing theft and addressing internal security breaches. Guards help enforce these protocols, ensuring that everyone adheres to the company’s security policies.
For instance, security guard companies may recommend strategies such as limiting access to sensitive data or performing audits of financial transactions. This creates an environment where both employees and employers are committed to maintaining the integrity of the business.
7. Providing Training and Awareness Programs
Another important function of security guard companies is to educate employees about the risks of internal theft and the measures the business has in place to protect against it. Through training programs, employees learn how to spot potential theft behaviors, report suspicious activities, and follow proper protocols when handling merchandise or sensitive information.
Training programs led by security guards foster a culture of awareness and vigilance within the company. When employees understand the consequences of internal theft and are aware of the measures in place to prevent it, they are less likely to engage in dishonest behavior themselves.
8. Cooperation with Law Enforcement
In the event of internal theft, security guard companies work hand-in-hand with law enforcement. If theft is detected, security guards can immediately inform the authorities, providing them with evidence and a clear timeline of the crime. They can also help with investigations, supplying security footage or other pertinent information.
This close cooperation with law enforcement ensures that internal theft is dealt with swiftly and effectively, helping businesses recover stolen goods or assets while also ensuring that perpetrators face legal consequences.
Conclusion
Security guard companies play a pivotal role in protecting businesses from internal theft. Their proactive security measures – including surveillance, access control, monitoring employee behavior, conducting inspections, and providing training – create a secure environment where theft is not tolerated. By utilizing their expertise, businesses can minimize the risks associated with internal theft and safeguard their assets. Investing in professional security services not only helps prevent theft but also fosters a culture of accountability and trust within the workplace.
Intraguard is one of the leading private security companies, offering a wide range of services including manned guarding, patrolling, CCTV surveillance, reception management, and guard dog patrols across the UK.
