Business premises often choose to install CCTV systems as they offer a number of security benefits. The systems can be installed indoors and outdoors, and assist in identification in the event of a crime. CCTV will capture very high-quality, well-illuminated images which in turn helps to detect crime around your premises, as well as act as a deterrent. And with the right equipment, blurry CCTV is now a thing of the past.
CCTV will:
- Help identify criminals
- Catch suspicious behaviour
- Identify weak points in current security
- Deter criminals
- Provide evidence if an incident does occur
But it is not just a matter of sourcing the correct equipment for your business, you must also know where to place and how best to position the cameras. This requires some careful consideration, and there are key places to cover that will ensure your business is getting the most out of the CCTV setup. In this guide, we will highlight these areas for you.
Where should I put my CCTV cameras?
Entrances & Exits
CCTV cameras should be positioned at all entrances and exits to the premises, giving complete visibility of who is entering and exiting. It is also important to point away from light sources to ensure a clear view of people’s faces. The cameras placed at entrances to the building should be fully visible to act as a deterrent and prevent an offence from taking place in the first place. Deterrence and therefore prevention is always going to be the most effective measure.
Car parks
Car parks can be a target for theft and vandalism, so we strongly recommend the installation of CCTV cameras here. This will also help with the identification of the offender when they flee the scene, possibly using a getaway vehicle. It can also be linked to a database so that authorised vehicles can be set permission to access a gate or barrier. This in turn will let you keep track of who should, and shouldn’t, be on your premises.
Other important areas
We also recommend installing CCTV cameras in receptions, office areas, storerooms, server rooms, warehouses and most importantly: customer-interaction points (especially if monetary transactions will be taking place).
Can CCTV record number plates?
Yes, a dedicated Automatic Number Plate Recognition Camera (ANPR) can be used to capture vehicle number plates for gate/barrier access or to record and link them to a crime, day and night.
What is the best position for CCTV cameras?
Height is everything
Having your CCTV cameras in the right location is pointless if they are not positioned correctly. Incorrect positioning can pose a greater vulnerability and the overall setup requires careful consideration. For example, if a camera is placed too low, it could be at risk of vandalism. But if it is placed too far away it could hinder the quality of the images.
Generally, cameras in the workplace will be placed at 2.5m or 5m. 2.5m ensures a close-range view, providing higher quality images for identification. To get a view of a wider area, 5m is the industry recommendation.
Must point at the right angle
Cameras are typically installed with the camera angled downwards at a vantage point so they can capture the surrounding area and focus on specific objects. It is also important to note that a camera with a smaller lens will increase the viewing angle but reduce the depth of field, so some adjustments will likely need to be made to ensure the best viewing angle.
Can CCTV cameras see in the dark?
Most CCTV cameras use infrared technology to see at night, even in total darkness. If you look closely at one, you will see it is surrounded by a small number of LEDs which emit infrared light at night. CCTV cameras with infrared night vision and an IP66 rating are ideal for outdoor use in the dark.
How to service CCTV cameras?
At SecureSite we provide an annual maintenance service for any CCTV system installed. We carry out compliance checks to ensure your system adheres to the latest standards, and test all of the main functions rigorously. Learn more about our CCTV maintenance services here.
Summary
It is important to note that all CCTV systems can and should be set up tailored to your specific business premises. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and it is strongly recommended that your CCTV systems are supplied, installed, and maintained by security system professionals. We pride ourselves on being nationwide security specialists. We offer free no-obligation quotes and free advice for speccing out a bespoke CCTV set-up for your business.