Should You Choose Manned Guarding or Remote Video Guarding?
Manned Guarding
Manned guarding involves the use of trained security officers to physically protect and monitor a property and its individuals. This approach has the following advantages and disadvantages:Advantages
Physical Presence - manned guarding provides a visible and physical presence on your premises. Security officers can deter potential threats just by their presence alone, making it an effective deterrent.Immediate Response - In the event of a security breach or incident, a security officer can respond swiftly, providing real-time intervention. They can assess the situation directly, contact the police force or emergency services and take necessary actions.
Human Judgement - Security guards can use their sense of judgement and experience to handle unique or unexpected situations, making them adaptable to changing security requirements.
Interaction - Security officers can also engage with visitors, employees and customers, enhancing the overall customer experience as well as maintaining a friendly atmosphere and a secure environment.Disadvantages
Cost - The cost of manned guarding can be expensive. Payments must cover wages/salaries, benefits, travel costs and other expenses, which can sometimes be a financial burden for businesses. Limited Coverage - Security officers are limited by their physical presence and they can’t monitor multiple or remote areas simultaneously. Generally, the larger the area, the more security coverage needed.Remote Video Guarding
Remote video guarding is a security technique that utilises surveillance cameras and technology to monitor properties and assets from a remote location. Video surveillance operators use video feeds to observe and respond to security threats. This approach has the following advantages and disadvantages:Advantages
Cost-Effective - Remote video guarding can be more cost-effective than manned guarding. You don’t have to pay additional costs such as salaries/wages and other labour-related costs. Additionally, the maintenance costs for video surveillance equipment is generally lower than ongoing personnel costs.Wide Coverage - Surveillance camera systems are specially designed to cover more large areas and even in areas where security officers might not be able to monitor. For example, restricted access areas and extreme heights of a building.
Continuous Surveillance - Remote video guarding can provide surveillance and monitoring for 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, ensuring that no security breach goes undetected, day or night.
Immediate Alerts - Advanced video surveillance systems are also designed to trigger immediate alerts to security personnel when usual activity is detected, allowing for rapid response.
Video Recordings - Video surveillance systems have the ability of recording video footage. This footage can serve as valuable evidence in the event of an incident, aiding the investigation and legal proceedings.Disadvantages
No Physical Presence - The biggest downside to remote video guarding is the lack of physical presence and the visible deterrent effect of security offers. Potential intruders may be less deterred by cameras alone and may find ways to enter the premises undetected.No Interaction - Video surveillance systems can’t interact with visitors, customers or employees on the premises. In addition, the use of video surveillance may raise privacy concerns amongst customers or employees.
Technical Issues - As with all technology, it can malfunction. Video surveillance systems can encounter technical problems or connection issues, which may affect security coverage during down time.