By Keith Fentress (President, Fentress Inc.) and Mike Jones (President, Major Security Consulting and Design, LLC)
So, you have the budget to install a security system in your building or office. There is certainly guidance available on what types and functions of security equipment should be included in your system. However, we would like to provide you with recommendations on what NOT to do when installing security equipment. We have seen these mistakes repeated time and again, and the result is that you end up spending more money to make your facilities less safe and secure.
But first, to properly install a security system, we recommend using a security professional. Having a solid reputation is important in the industry and word spreads fast when there are problems with security equipment and installation. The benefits of hiring a security professional include:
- The professional has learned valuable lessons from installing security systems in a variety of different situations and understands unique installation challenges your facility may present.
- The licensing that is required of a security professional necessitates a criminal background check.
- Risk is reduced for clients because security professionals are insured in case there ever is a problem, such as equipment that breaks or has flaws that the installer could not detect.
- Your security professional will be able to spot a good deal with respect to buying security equipment and systems, and will stay on top of the latest trends in equipment choices.
The following security problems occur most often when companies do not hire a security professional. Our goal is to offer recommendations that will help you avoid these common mistakes.
DIY Security
When it comes to installing security systems, there are many people who think they can install access controls, cameras, alarms, etc. on their own. While there will no doubt be readers that can install a security system, this is not a common job for a building manager or for someone who fancies himself/herself as handy with tools. One of the key benefits of a security system is integration, and this requires expertise, including the best places to mount security equipment and how the equipment needs to function together to create an effective system.
Even if you have complete confidence in your ability to install a security system, we still suggest that you seek out a security professional to review your system and to provide advice. Such advice could include an assessment of your actual risk level, the best type of equipment for your situation, where to install, up-to-date security protocols, etc. It would also be good to have a security professional perform an inspection of any installation effort. Many times, we have seen “do-it-yourself” installations result in faulty security and, in the worst cases, premises liability lawsuits. Don’t cut corners - hire a professional. Your security and safety are worth doing it right.
When Hiring a Security Installer
When you hire a firm to install your security system, verify that they have a proper license, which requires a background check. A security installation requires intimate knowledge of your workplace, and the people who install your system will know its strengths and weaknesses. The last thing you want is someone with a criminal history installing your security.
Case in point: A recent client in a secondary school facility had a maintenance person install security equipment. It turns out that this person had previously been convicted of a sex offense. This fact was learned after the client consulted a security professional who performed a background check on the installer. Of course, the conviction came as a complete shock to the client, who now must go through the expense of replacing the equipment, including door locks.
The laws in most states place the burden on the workplace to ensure that an installer has a license to practice their trade. Always ask for a copy of the license and insurance certificate and then independently verify the information through your state’s licensing website. Also, check the firm’s references. It is important to hire a reputable firm that has a solid history of good customer service. A good question to ask is how the firm has handled mistakes in the past. No one is perfect; be wary of the firm that claims to have never made a mistake during security installation. You want a firm that puts the customer first and does everything they can to address any security issues.
Hiring professionals and checking to make sure they have a solid reputation and experience will help ensure a good installation and your office’s confidentiality.
You Get the Security You Pay For
When purchasing security equipment, don’t be tempted by the lowest deal. All too often, we see clients that have purchased through a low bid arrangement, resulting in a lower quality of security. Make sure your bid process has a best value evaluation that considers the quality of equipment and experience of the vendor in addition to cost. The best deal might not be the cheapest, but proper security is worth the cost.
We have also seen clients make mistakes such as purchasing closed-out equipment for which they cannot find replacement parts or service technicians. Another mistake is to purchase used security equipment that has no guarantee it will work as designed, and even buying used equipment off eBay. Also, do not be tempted by “limited time offers.” Don’t let pressure sales tactics rush your decision process – your safety and security should be carefully considered. We know you want to stretch your money as far as it will go on a limited budget, but choose wisely.
One recent client was tempted by the offer of miles of free cabling that had been previously used. Once installed, the security system quickly started to fail due to faulty cabling, which had to be replaced.
If you are purchasing security as a government entity, look for a cooperative contract or state-regulated surplus house to find competitive pricing on security equipment. For public and private organizations, do not hesitate to ask for discounts. Discounts may not always come in the form of money and may include more accessories or a longer warranty.
Don’t Cut the Check Before Everything Is Complete
Once your security system has been installed, make sure the installer does a thorough test of the system. Payment can be set up for net 30 days after the final successful installation check. You should also have your personnel trained by the security installer. Do not attempt to train yourself – you will not gain a thorough understanding of the capabilities, which could prove disastrous in the event of a crisis. Plus, in some cases, performing training on your own could even void the warranty.
You should also consider having a hard copy of your security manuals. Electronic copies are very convenient, but the hard copies can be helpful to have on site, especially when the power goes out. Also, have the vendor provide screenshots of the serial numbers on your equipment. These images can be very handy when replacing or upgrading in the future. Finally, your security vendor should file your warranty papers to make sure everything is covered and to save you time and effort.
Security systems are designed to help us stay safe in the workplace and to prevent even our worst nightmares. Hire a professional to help you select and install your security system so that you can have the peace of mind knowing that it was done right.
