A Guide to Remote Video Surveillance for Office Buildings
If you want to improve office security, then office building remote video surveillance may be the solution you need. But with so many options available, choosing the right security system for your business can feel overwhelming. In this article, we’ll guide you through the common security threats for office buildings and help you navigate the world of surveillance cameras to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Running a small or mid-sized business is no walk in the park. You’ve got a lot on your plate — keeping customers happy, managing your team, hitting sales goals — the list never ends. And then there are the unexpected headaches: theft, vandalism, or sudden work stoppages that can throw everything off track and take a serious bite out of your bottom line. It’s a lot to handle, and staying ahead of these challenges isn’t easy.
This is why real-time video surveillance for office buildings is so important. In fact, the global video surveillance camera market, valued at $35 billion in 2022, is expected to grow to over $62 billion by 2027, driven by the increasing adoption of smart camera systems.
Surveillance cameras create a safer environment for employees and customers, which can lead to increased productivity, higher employee retention, and customer satisfaction. But with so many options available, it can be daunting to decide which system is right for your business.
In this guide, we’ll cover common security threats for office buildings, the benefits of remote video monitoring systems, and how to choose the right office building video surveillance solution or service for your business.
Here’s what’s ahead:
Here’s what you need to know about office building security threats.
Depending on your type of business, you may have cash, valuable technology, or gear in your office building or remote location. All of these assets can attract the attention of criminals.
Beyond that, internal personnel issues can lead to impacts on your bottom line. Whether it’s employee theft, vandalism, or violence in the workplace, any of these security threats can harm your business.
These security risks are capable of draining revenue and resources. They also contribute to an unpleasant work culture at best. At worst, they make the workplace unsafe, driving your best employees to look elsewhere for work.
Here are some signs that your office may be at increased risk of security threats:
1. Unsecured entry points: If your office has multiple entry points with no security measures in place, it is more susceptible to break-ins and theft.
2. Lack of surveillance cameras: Without proper surveillance cameras, it becomes difficult to monitor any suspicious activity within the building.
3. Poor lighting: Dimly lit areas within the building can create blind spots for criminals to hide or carry out illegal activities.
4. No access control system: An access control system allows you to restrict entry to certain areas of your building, ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter.
5. Untrained employees: Without proper training on security protocols, employees may unknowingly put themselves and the company at risk by not following safety procedures.
6. Neglected maintenance: Broken locks, malfunctioning security systems, and lack of regular maintenance can make it easier for criminals to gain entry into the building.
7. Lack of emergency response plan: In case of a security breach or emergency situation, not having a proper response plan in place can lead to chaos and confusion.
8. Inadequate background checks: Hiring employees without conducting thorough background checks can potentially bring in individuals with criminal records who may pose a threat to the safety of the company.
9. Poorly secured entrances and exits: A weak point in your building’s security is its entrances and exits. If these are not properly secured, it becomes easier for intruders to enter unnoticed.
10. Disregarding basic safety measures: Simple measures such as locking doors and windows, keeping valuables out of sight and properly disposing of sensitive information can greatly enhance the security of your building.
It is important for businesses to continuously assess and update their security measures to stay one step ahead of potential threats. But even businesses without these vulnerabilities can still benefit from security measures like remote video surveillance.
What is remote video surveillance?
Remote video surveillance is a type of security system that uses video cameras to monitor and record activities in a specific location, then streams that footage to a remote location. Because the camera feeds can be accessed from any cloud-connected device, security guards do not need to be onsite — you can monitor these cameras from any location.
Here’s how it usually works: Cameras set up around the property stream a live feed to a secure cloud server. This footage can then be accessed by authorized personnel through a web-based platform or mobile app, regardless of their physical location. The system allows for real-time monitoring and playback of recorded footage, making it an effective tool for preventing and investigating security breaches.
But keep in mind that remote video monitoring isn’t a foolproof security solution. Relying on human guards to monitor feeds or doing it yourself can be challenging. Watching footage 24/7 is physically and mentally exhausting, increasing the risk of missed incidents. Hiring on-site security guards can also be expensive due to ongoing staffing needs.
Deep Sentinel revolutionizes the concept of remote video surveillance by combining the power of AI with live human guards, offering a more effective and cost-efficient solution. With Deep Sentinel’s advanced system, trained guards are equipped with artificial intelligence technology that enables them to quickly and accurately identify potential threats and respond in real-time.
With Deep Sentinel’s unique combination of advanced AI and human guards, you can monitor perimeter security in key areas like entrances, common spaces, and building perimeters — keeping your office safe and secure without needing to rely on costly onsite personnel.
Benefits of office building remote video surveillance
Office building live monitoring isn’t just for catching criminals. With the right technology, security system and strategy, you’re making a valuable investment in several key aspects of your business.
☑ Crime prevention
Office building remote video surveillance helps identify criminals before they escape. It alerts authorities quickly, giving you a higher chance of catching them in the act. Some systems even use a two-way speaker to warn intruders that they are being watched, deterring crime before it escalates.
☑ Improved safety
The system monitors hazardous areas and ensures that safety protocols are followed, helping to prevent accidents. For example, if an employee or visitor is seen entering a restricted area, the system can alert security personnel to take immediate action. These insights can also be used to improve employee training.
☑ Fewer incidents of employee misconduct
When employees know they are under surveillance, they are less likely to engage in misconduct. It can discourage unethical behavior, theft, or misuse of company resources, promoting a positive work environment.
☑ Enhanced evidence collection
Provides crucial video evidence in case of disputes or incidents, supporting internal investigations, legal matters, or insurance claims.
☑ Training and development
Reviewing footage through office building remote video monitoring can highlight areas for employee improvement, serving as a training tool for both positive and negative behaviors.
Remote surveillance vs onsite guards: Which is better for your office?
When deciding between remote surveillance and onsite guards, it’s essential to consider the specific needs and budget of your office. Onsite guards provide a physical presence, which can be a strong deterrent to intruders and allow for immediate intervention in case of incidents. However, the high cost of hiring, training, and maintaining a team of guards can strain resources, especially for smaller businesses.
On the other hand, remote surveillance systems like Deep Sentinel offer continuous monitoring without the significant overhead of onsite personnel. These systems are equipped with AI-driven technology that reduces false alarms and enhances threat detection accuracy. Additionally, live agents supporting these systems can respond to security breaches in real-time, contacting local authorities if necessary. This combination of technology and human oversight creates a balance of reliability and cost-efficiency that can outperform traditional onsite solutions for many offices.
| Feature | Remote Video Surveillance | Onsite Security Guards |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Response Time | Immediate (via AI and alerts) | Delayed (human-dependent) |
| Coverage | 24/7, scalable | Limited by shift hours |
| Technology | AI-enabled, real-time alerts | Manual observation |
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Features to look for in remote security monitoring
So you’re interested in installing a remote security monitoring system for your office building, but not sure what features to look for? Here are some key elements that you should consider when choosing the best cameras for your needs.
If you’re sold on the benefits of remote video surveillance services for office buildings and commercial properties, be sure to invest in newer cameras with these value-added features.
- Night vision or motion-activated floodlights: This technology lets outdoor cameras capture a clear picture in low- and no-light environments.
- HD resolution or better: Your cameras should offer clear, full-color footage that captures every detail.
- Live security monitoring: If your cameras merely film a problem in progress, they’re not much of a deterrent. On the other hand, if a live guard warns criminals and alerts authorities within seconds, you increase the chances that your office building will remain a safe place to work.
- 2-way audio: Cameras equipped with this feature enable direct intervention with potential criminals, scaring them off.
- Artificial intelligence: Unlike traditional systems that require constant human monitoring, AI scans footage in real-time, quickly identifying suspicious activity and alerting remote guards to take action.
Want it all in one system? Deep Sentinel offers everything you need.
How to create an office building security plan
Having a remote video surveillance system is a great step towards securing your business — but it shouldn’t be the only workplace security measure in place. Here are some additional security tools you might consider to create a comprehensive office building security plan:
→ Access control: Use tools like RFID, card readers, and biometric sensors to limit access. You can easily program them remotely to manage who can enter—and when. For added security, install a live security camera monitoring system inside inside or at the entrance.
→ Alarm sensors: A wide range of sensors can alert you to open doors or windows, the sound of broken glass, and movement.
→ Lighting: Proper lighting helps deter criminal activity. It also provides a safer environment for employees or customers arriving or leaving after dark. Make sure your building’s exterior and parking lots are well-lit.
→ Employee training: Educate employees about security best practices, including the importance of safeguarding access credentials, reporting suspicious activities, and following emergency procedures.
→ Visitor management: Require all guests to sign in and wear visible identification badges while in the building. This helps identify unauthorized visitors quickly.
For more ideas to improve your building security, check out our Business Security Checklist.
The best office security for your budget
Looking for top-notch office security without the high costs? You’re in the right place!
With AI-powered security cameras and expert monitoring services, you’ll get more protection and faster responses from Deep Sentinel Security compared to traditional onsite guards. And the best part? You’ll save money while getting 24/7 coverage — it’s like having a security team that’s always on watch, but without the high costs.
So, why settle for anything less when you can have multiple security guards and the best protection at a better price? When it comes to preventing crime in your office, we’re ahead of the game. Let’s keep your office safe — at a price that makes sense.
FAQs on remote video surveillance for office buildings
What makes remote video surveillance better than traditional systems?
Unlike traditional setups, remote video surveillance systems offer real-time monitoring, AI detection, and scalability without requiring onsite personnel. These systems use advanced technology, such as high-definition cameras and artificial intelligence algorithms, to monitor activity in real-time. This allows for immediate response to potential threats and the ability to track and analyze patterns over time.
In addition to its security benefits, remote video surveillance also offers cost savings by eliminating the need for on-site personnel. With traditional security setups, businesses often have to hire security guards or pay for around-the-clock monitoring services. However, with remote video surveillance, these costs are significantly reduced as the system itself can detect and respond to threats without the need for human intervention.
Can remote surveillance systems prevent crimes proactively?
Yes. Systems with live video monitoring and two-way audio allow guards to intervene and alert local authorities before crimes occur.
How can surveillance improve employee productivity?
By discouraging misconduct and highlighting areas for professional development, monitored video surveillance helps foster a focused and productive work environment.
Is remote surveillance cost-effective for SMBs?
Absolutely. Remote systems provide comprehensive security solutions at a fraction of the cost of maintaining onsite guards.
What is the difference between CCTV and video surveillance?
CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) and video surveillance are terms often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings:
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CCTV: This refers specifically to a system where video cameras transmit signals to a specific set of monitors. It’s called “closed-circuit” because the signal is not openly transmitted but is confined to a limited set of monitors. CCTV is commonly used for security in places like banks, casinos, airports, and military installations.
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Video Surveillance: This is a broader term that encompasses any system used to monitor and record activity through video. It includes CCTV but also covers more modern systems that might use IP cameras, which can transmit video over the internet, allowing for remote monitoring. Video surveillance can be part of a larger security system that includes features like motion detection, night vision, and integration with other security measures.
In summary, CCTV is a type of video surveillance, but video surveillance can include a wider range of technologies and systems beyond just CCTV.
Need a Solution that Prevents Crime?
Deep Sentinel is the only security technology that delivers the experience of a personal guard on every customer’s home and business. Visit deepsentinel.com/business or call 833-983-6006