Whether developing a new car park, or looking to improve the security of your existing premises, it is essential that you consider how you’ll obtain a high level of security. Car parks with low levels of security will face a number of issues, including a rise in criminal activity and a reduction in use, which can be incredibly problematic for commercial enterprises.
Avoid the risk of security and safety issues by ensuring that your car park complies with Government legislation and follows best practice guidelines regarding security. Security can be approved by improving and installing the following.
Ample lighting throughout your car park can help reduce the risk of crime. Preventing areas from being obscured by darkness or shadows limits the opportunity for criminal acts to be carried out and makes the general public feel safer using the space.
The cost of installing and running lighting can be reduced by painting interiors white. White walls will create a brighter space, which will help reduce annual energy costs and mean that less lights are required to illuminate the space.
Lighting also has an effect on the quality of CCTV footage, so developers should choose appropriate lighting that aids this.
Clearly signposted CCTV can help keep your car park secure, as all users are aware they are being recorded. Footage can be used as evidence to prosecute and, if manned, can alert security of potential risks. Cameras should be installed to cover key areas of your car park, such as vehicle entry and exit points, and any priority areas, including:
Systems should use a DVR (Digital Recording System) to store images and CCTV equipment should be of a high enough standard to be able to distinguish number plates and allow for facial recognition. Devices must comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 and operators should follow the CCTV Code of Practice issued by the Information Commissioner.
CCTV should be supported by ‘natural surveillance’ such as patrols by security personnel where possible.
Barriers can be used to control access to your carpark and the flow of traffic during busy periods. Traffic barriers installed at the entry and exit points can be integrated with ticket issuing or can be operated using access control systems, such as key pad entry or card swipes, for private access carparks.
Traffic barriers can provide the level of protection required during normal operating hours, but additional barriers may need to be installed when closed, or during off-peak hours.
Installing roller shutters, such as the Armourguard N2 Maximum, to prevent access to your carpark offers maximum levels of security. Highly secure shutters installed externally can safeguard your carpark while it is closed. Alternatively, when controlled using keypad, fob, or card entry, shutters can be used to prevent unauthorised access in residential or business carparks.
Grilles and shutters can also be installed throughout the carpark to aid or restrict vehicle and foot traffic flow. Internally installed shutters can help create routes that mean all pedestrians or vehicles must pass a particular point, such as a CCTV camera, or a ticket machine.
Shutters must allow for airflow. The build-up of toxic emissions in carparks can pose a health risk if airflow is restricted, so it is essential that your shutters are perforated so they are secure but don’t restrict air movement.
HAG manufacture, install, and maintain traffic barriers and roller security shutters for residential, business, and commercial car parks. For more information about our products, or how they can help you create a secure car park, please get in touch with a member of our team by calling 0800 072 3444.
HAG offers a wide range of products and services, if you would like further information call 0800 072 3444 now to speak to a member of our team.
