One of the best tools in a comprehensive security system is CCTV. It’s useful for preventing and solving crime, and so is seeing increasing use across the country both in business and domestic premises. This leads to the question of who actually needs CCTV.
CCTV Benefits
CCTV stands for Closed-Circuit Television, and works by recording live footage of an area and storing it on a database. It does this all within a closed circuit, i.e., not one broadcasting on public airwaves.
READ MORE: How Does CCTV Work?
A study by the College of Policing has shown that CCTV does reduce crime against property, drug crime, and vehicle crime. So, whether you install it in and around your home, in your workplace, or overlooking a storage space, CCTV very clearly benefits everyone.
Who Needs CCTV?
Legally speaking, nobody needs CCTV. It isn’t a legal requirement for running a business or owning a home, unlike car insurance for drivers.
However, business owners and employers are required to put in place security measures that protect the people, property, and assets of the business. In this context, as one part of a security system, CCTV is an investment that really pays dividends for all sorts of business premises:
• Retailers can use CCTV to prevent shoplifting, or to help catch the perpetrators and identify them to the police after the act.
• Car parks and garages can use CCTV as a deterrent against vandalism and theft.
• Business premises like corporate offices will be able to keep an eye on their employees and monitor any locations that need additional security
• Storage facilities can use CCTV as an extra layer of security to keep their customers’ belongings safe.
• Warehouses and manufacturing facilities will be able to deter the theft of equipment and products.
CCTV at Home
It’s not just businesses that can use CCTV. In recent years, domestic CCTV installation has grown increasingly popular.
So long as it complies with various legal regulations, homeowners can enjoy an additional layer of security against burglaries by installing CCTV in and around the home.
Local councils can also utilise CCTV to help stop anti-social behaviour like fly-tipping and drug misuse on the streets. Aberystwyth did this in 2022, as did our home city of Cardiff.
CCTV Rules
Unfortunately, you can’t just put up a camera and call it a day. You must comply with regulations laid down by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you have CCTV installed at home or in the workplace.
There are a lot of data protection and privacy concerns about domestic CCTV. Fortunately, the UK Government has drafted guidance on the use of domestic CCTV to ensure people know how to install and use it responsibly.
CCTV demonstrably reduces crime in domestic, public, and private spaces, which is a good thing for everyone. Even if you don’t think you need it, CCTV can be a worthwhile investment for your home or business. Here at IDS Security LTD, CCTV is one of many services we offer. If you want to install it on your premises, feel free to get in touch, and we’ll discuss the best security options for you.
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