Specialist Complete Security Systems

Site Security

Posted by: Alastair In: Blog, CCTV 05 Nov 2019 0 comments

Access control systems help prevent thefts on construction sites

Access control systems are just one of the series of security solutions that can be deployed to prevent thefts on building sites, a phenomenon that is affecting an increasing number of construction companies across the UK.

In fact, the Construction Index reports that more than half of builders in the UK have been victims of theft, with more than 50% having had their vans damaged and tools stolen.

In an interview, FMB chief executive Brian Berry stated that tools were being stolen from vans and directly from construction sites. “Some builders have even been assaulted by would-be thieves. The impact of this on the nation’s smaller building firms is particularly disruptive. Not only is there a high cost in terms of both time and money spent replacing these expensive tools, and to fix the damage caused, but without the right tools, firms are simply unable to work,” he explained.

Builders are currently adopting a range of measures to limit tool theft. This can range from bringing tools inside after work, installing extra locks on vans and parking against a wall.

Leaving tools, no matter how big or small, lying around a construction site after work hours is like leaving out an invitation for thieves. Professional Builder suggests locking everything away in safe storage or taking the tools and equipment off-site. If the tools are too big, marking each with indelible ink or an identification mark can help in the recovery, especially if the equipment is listed on a police-approved national tool register.

If you do leave the tools on-site it pays to invest in a good quality shed to store them in. T3’s guide to choosing the best shed details how metal designs are more resilient than wooden sheds. This means that they will last longer on a construction site. In terms of security, a metal shed would be much harder to break into. Of course, it is up to the builders to make sure the shed is secure with good locks. Screwfix has a number of metal sheds that now come with two padlock points, which will allow builders to have an extra level of protection. It is also best to purchase a shed without a window, which would be an easy access point for thieves. A metal shed can also be constructed and broken down much quicker than a regular wooden shed, meaning it could be transported easily from site to site.

Go digital

Electrical Contractor Magazine notes that digital advancements like mobile technology and artificial intelligence have made it easier for contractors to monitor multiple locations at a time. Security cameras can now be controlled through mobile phones by simply downloading an app; these allow contractors to view the site 24/7. Not only that, installing tracking devices on tools is now an option. Cloud-based software can help track tools that have been fitted with a tracking device. This means a contractor can now monitor when the tools are being used and in some cases where they are.

Protection against theft on construction sites needs to start at the site boundary by incorporating physical deterrents like strong walls and perimeter fences. Intruder alarms, high-quality locks, and controlled entry points are also great deterrents.

If it is a large site, then controlled entry points and patrols can also help make sure no one is on the site during the hours when it is closed.

With years of experience in site security contact SCS to learn now we can help keep your site safe and secure.

Paxton 10 launching soon

Posted by: Alastair In: Blog 18 Oct 2019 0 comments

SCS have been a long time supporter and installer of Paxton Access Control Systems. The Paxton products are well designed and well supported by the team in Brighton.

The core product Net 2 is a central server based solution for local and dispersed building access control.

Paxton are poised to expand the range of security solutions with the Paxton 10 platform that combines Access Control with Video Management. Paxton will launch a range of HD cameras.

Full details of Paxton 10 to be released in November.

Paxton Overview:

Access control

Access control provides a secure, convenient and flexible way of controlling who has access to your buildings and assets.

Installing an access control system means that you will never have to change a lock again. Electronic tokens and cards are issued to allow access through controlled doors and are easily barred from the system if they are lost, stolen or just not returned by someone who leaves.

Additionally, an access control system can offer you more functionality by integrating with other systems like CCTV, intruder alarm and biometrics to create a complete solution.

Wireless door handles

Wireless access control is a great way to secure a system quickly and with minimal disruption.

The PaxLock range can be installed as part of a networked system or standalone for sites that do not require extra functionality.

We have several designs available which can be installed on internal or external doors.

Door entry

Door entry allows you to recognise a visitor calling at the main entrance before granting them access to your building. Our door entry system is simple and comprises three components: external panel, door control unit and internal monitor.

Our Net2 Entry system can work standalone or alongside our access control system to combine the benefits of door entry with the key features and centralised management of access control.

Beef up Office security with Smart Handle

Posted by: Alastair Dodwell In: Blog 18 Sep 2019 0 comments

This seems a neat way to add extra security to any room is an office.

Simply add a smart handle to an office door and you have added an extra layer of security to the room.

How many rooms at your office shouldn’t offer an open access, free-for-all? Probably quite a few. But expecting everyone to keep them locked, and the key-carrying and-tracking that entails, is unrealistic. This is when you need Code Handle.

This simple, secure, easy-to-fit handle works with your current door lock. There is no need for you to change the door lock mechanism; just replace the existing handle to add PIN security to an office door. With Code Handle, there is no wiring, no expensive access control system and no need for cumbersome physical keys. Two screws fit a Code Handle to almost any interior office, meeting room, archive or storage room door.

The inbuilt electronic PIN pad does the security work for you. Press a 4-digit code on the handle’s integrated keypad and the door opens. Code Handle comes with a Master Code and 9 different user PINs, so you can restrict access to a select group of people — senior managers, the IT department or the office cleaners, for example.

Code Handle also locks itself. Auto-locking ensures an office, storage room or staff toilet is always secure when you close the door. You know for sure nobody has seen the new org chart you left on your desk, nor entered the stationery cupboard without authorisation.

Simple security, elegant design: why Code Handle is the right fit for offices

With Code Handle, user-friendly security comes with clean, elegant design. Forget about ugly push-button-and-twist mechanical PIN locks. The low-profile Code Handle is brushed in stainless steel and satin chrome zinc, in a sleek design to blend with any modern office décor.

All the security you need is in the handle. Two standard batteries (CR2) slot inside, and typically last for 30,000 lock/unlock cycles before you need to replace them. An indicator tells you when it’s time to change them. Code Handle comes in left- and right-hand versions. It is fire tested and enables free exit from the inside of a room.

Code Handle keeps sensitive documents, meeting rooms and personal belongings safe and secure at your workplace. You can’t lock every room, nor install CCTV everywhere. With Code Handle, you don’t need to.