Why You Need Regular Security System Inspections for Your Premises

Few systems of any kind are set and forget. When it comes to security systems, the stakes are too high to merely set it up once and never revisit it again. What if a critical component fails? Or something is simply misadjusted, like a surveillance camera missing just enough of the view so that something - or someone - can slip by?

While many businesses don’t do it, routine HVAC system inspections can reveal a potential problem with the air conditioning before the building is stuck sweltering in Central Texas summer heat. Similarly, routine (as in at least yearly) security system inspections should be on your to-do list for your Round Rock premises. Let’s explore what security inspections can reveal so that your commercial property is never left unprotected or unprepared.

SEE MORE: Keep Your Business Safe with a Fire Alarm Inspection Company

Physical Inspection

Even if your system can monitor device status, all the devices on the system should be physically checked for proper operation. Cameras should be inspected to ensure they are correctly positioned and aimed. Sensors on doors and windows should be checked to see if they are within the right tolerances to trigger correctly. Access control locations should be inspected to ensure that sensors always detect when doors are opened and closed. Cleaning devices is also important, as sensors, camera lenses, and card readers accumulate dirt and may malfunction.

Test Sensors and Alarms

Each sensor and alarm should be regularly tested. Even if a sensor appears physically intact, it may have an internal malfunction, so testing it will lead to repairing and replacing necessary components. Alarms for various other incidents and threats should be tested, such as smoke, fire, or access. Besides the physical lights and audible alarms, is your system sending out all the proper notifications to the right places and stakeholders? That can be your smartphone, monitoring company, security personnel management dashboard, or even a mass notification system. Any one of these parts failing to operate could lead to a dangerous situation or loss in a serious incident.

Test Cameras

You require video surveillance to be your eyes at all times. You’ll want to test cameras for operation, so communication doesn't glitch, video footage saves properly to an on-site recorder or to the cloud, and the camera lens isn't compromised, limiting its ability to record clear images. If you have smart cameras with intelligent onboard features, the firmware and software in the system need to be up to date. 

Update Firmware and Software

Today's commercial security systems rely heavily on software and firmware for functionality, especially if they connect to local monitoring and cloud management solutions. Every part of your security system should be regularly checked for software updates. Updates might fix potential security flaws in IP-based devices as well as errors in the code that may lead to a malfunction at the wrong time. Software updates often add new features to surveillance cameras (like license plate detection) and improved interfaces and notifications for monitoring software. All access to software management systems should employ strong passwords that are regularly changed and utilize multi-factor authentication if offered.

ASAP Security Services has vast experience across Texas with sophisticated security and surveillance solutions in both the public and commercial sectors. To learn more about our security system inspection services, set up a consultation with our team by calling (877) 418-ASAP, filling out our contact form, or starting a live chat with us below. We look forward to working with you!