What is CCTV Monitoring and Why Do You Need it?

How Does CCTV Monitoring Work?

CCTV monitoring is a way that you can protect and observe your commercial or private property. CCTV cameras are used to monitor your building live. This can be especially essential when a building is standing empty or in a high-risk area. Cameras are monitored by professional security staff. They are able to highlight any threats or criminal action as it occurs, and alert you if necessary.

CCTV monitoring functions by sending video recordings from the camera to the control centre. This occurs via an internet connection. The cameras observe your building from many different angles to ensure your property is secure. If a threat or criminal activity is taking place, an alarm system can be remotely triggered. At this point, the keyholder of the building and/or proper authorities are also alerted.

Types of CCTV Camera Systems

There is more than one type of CCTV system – here, we explore the two main options that you can choose between.

Analogue

Traditional and original CCTV monitoring systems are generally known as analogue cameras. Analogue cameras are the most widely utilised. The footage being recorded is received by a Digital Video Recorder through a cable. It is then changed into a digital file. Analogue security cameras are less costly than more modern CCTV and are simple to use. Their long-term presence means they have been adapted to suit many different needs. However, the image quality can be lower.

IP

IP (Internet Protocol) systems are a more contemporary version of CCTV monitoring. These use a digital camera to send the data via wireless means. This reduces the level of cables needed and can be easily added to your network. The image quality is higher, increasing the possibility to zoom in on images. Many different sensors provide better coverage for your property. With data encryption, you can feel safer from hackers. It is worth noting that the cost of IP CCTV monitoring can be higher. You need a good level of bandwidth and technical know-how to get IP systems off the ground.

How is CCTV Commonly Used?

CCTV monitoring systems can be used in a variety of different ways. They are sometimes utilised for homes, especially when homeowners are away from their property. However, they are most commonly used for commercial premises. These often have high-value information and items on-site.

Retail stores use CCTV both inside and outside, to keep track of doors, aisles, checkouts and storage areas.

Office buildings also commonly utilise CCTV monitoring cameras. They cover every entrance and exit. You can place them in shared spaces inside the building, emergency exits, stairwells, and where data or servers are stored.

Finally, warehouses or storage companies use CCTV to keep their entryways, exits, loading spaces and machinery secure.

Benefits of Commercial CCTV Monitoring

There are many benefits to commercial CCTV monitoring. CCTV monitoring at work can act as a deterrent for potential criminal activity. Often simply seeing a visible CCTV system can put off burglars or other intruders, as it raises the chances of them being caught quickly.

Commercial CCTV monitoring in offices keeps everyone within the buildings safer. It also reduces the chances of staff themselves acting inappropriately. Instances of theft in offices or stores, by staff or shoplifters, is reduced with visible CCTV cameras. With live monitoring, any criminal activity can be curtailed while it is in progress. Police and building owners are alerted. If a crime does take place, the footage can be used to follow up and catch perpetrators.

Who Can View CCTV Footage?

CCTV footage can be viewed by the staff monitoring them in real-time, and the owners of the cameras can also review footage. They are also able to share this footage with trusted associates where relevant. It is also important to understand that anyone who has been recorded can request footage of themselves. This is in accordance with data protection regulations.

CCTV cameras can be a good way to deter criminal activity and keep your commercial property safe. If you want to find out more about the right CCTV monitoring system for your business, get in touch with Britannia Fire & Security today.