These days, it is not uncommon to see close-circuit television (CCTV) cameras installed on every building in a commercial or residential area. Being both easily installable and relatively affordable, it has become the preferred option of both home and business owners for safety purposes. Here are five benefits a CCTV system can bring to the premises:
- CCTV improves safety.
CCTV systems are a staple of many buildings, such as banks, hospitals, and hotels – and for good reasons. Employees who work in high-risk areas experience a stronger sense of security, knowing that CCTV systems are there to alert their superiors of any suspicious or dangerous activity. They feel reassured knowing that any potential threats can be immediately identified, and the appropriate parties alerted, so that speedy action can be taken. Customers also enjoy a peace of mind as they go about their activities, such as jewellery shopping and money withdrawals, without having to look over their shoulders. In a nutshell, CCTV systems enhance the safety of the premises.
- CCTV dissuades criminals.
CCTV systems act as a psychological deterrent to any potential criminals. Statistics have shown that the installation of CCTVs in vulnerable spots, such as car parks, can diminish crime rate by 51%. The same applies for public transportation areas, which showed a 23% decline in crime. More often than not, petty criminals and small-time burglars are looking for a quick hit-and-run. CCTV systems will convince them that the risk is not worth taking. As they say, “prevention is better than cure” – it is always preferable to reduce the chance of your premises from being a target in the first place.
- CCTV collects evidence.
When there are disputes and conflicts between parties, CCTV systems provide a fool-proof way of determining the facts. Police have often relied on surveillance to identify individuals, place the time of the incident, as well as ascertain the order of events that occurred. In Malaysia itself, the 255 CCTV cameras of Integrated Transport Information System (ITIS) are not only used to monitor traffic, but also to assist the crime-fighting force. All CCTV videos can be rewound, played, and replayed multiple times, allowing investigators to go over all the details with a fine-tooth comb.
- CCTV simplifies monitoring
This is especially true when it comes to large spaces, such as shopping malls, museums, subway stations, etc. By having CCTVs placed in strategic locations, a team of officers can easily monitor the whole area in a small room, by watching several screens. CCTVs provide real-time data, which allows security to respond and react accordingly to the situation. They also allow monitoring to occur remotely; for example, an employer may still keep an eye on his business while he is outstation, and a parent can observe their babysitters while at work.
5. CCTVs are cost-effective.
In comparison to hiring a large team of security guards for constant patrol, CCTV systems can cover more ground at a lower price. Once the cost of installation has been paid, they do not require much upkeep and maintenance, save for the occasional cleaning of the camera lenses. They are also tireless, reliable, and constantly transmitting data at a steady pace. They are therefore a very worthy investment, and a highly cost-effective option.
In conclusion, CCTV systems provide many benefits to businesses and the public. They allow for tighter security, higher efficiency, and monitoring convenience- therefore an essential tool when it comes to ensuring safety, and should be an integral part of every organisation.