Date icon30 October 2023

Commercial CCTV System Considerations

In today's dynamic business environment, the safety and security of your people and your premises are so important. One of the most effective ways to ensure this is through the installation of a Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) system. However, with so many options available, making the right choice can be daunting. Here are some key considerations to guide your decision-making process.  

Purpose of the CCTV System

Before diving into the specifics, identify the primary purpose of a commercial CCTV system. Is it to monitor employee activities, deter theft, oversee production processes, or ensure perimeter security? Pinpointing the objective will help narrow down the type and features of the CCTV camera solution you need.  

Regulatory Requirements

In the UK, the use of CCTV by businesses is subject to several legislative requirements. This is to ensure the privacy rights of individuals are respected and to ensure that the use of CCTV is necessary and proportionate.  

The UK Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018) incorporates the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) into UK law. If your business CCTV system captures footage of identifiable individuals, it's considered processing personal data, and you must comply with the DPA.  

It is essential that companies ensure that their CCTV systems comply with UK regulations. This includes understanding about where cameras are placed, how long footage is stored, and how data can be used. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and legal complications, so it is vital to work with your HR department and a trusted partner that can guide you through the regulations and your responsibility.  

CCTV Camera Resolution and Quality

For many companies, the clarity of recording footage is crucial. Where this is the case, we recommend opting for high-resolution cameras to ensure clear images, especially if you need to identify faces or license plates. While 1080p is considered to be the standard Analogue system, with over 2 million pixels per image, 4MP or above (over 3.6 million pixels per image) is needed for some levels of data capture.  

Obviously high-resolution cameras can be more expensive, and sometimes need additional storage due to larger file sizes, so analogue cameras are a practical and cost-effective solution for businesses who need basic surveillance capabilities on a budget. They can also be advantageous in settings where network bandwidth is a concern, such as perimeter security at the edge of large grounds.  

CCTV Installer Accreditations

When choosing a CCTV installer, it is advisable to check if the company has relevant accreditations before proceeding with the installation. Accreditation means that the installer meets industry standards and has been vetted for their competence and adherence to industry best practices. Accreditation bodies, such as the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB) and the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) ensure their members are trained and updated with the latest industry standards and technologies. These standards also audit actual installations to ensure the correct and up to date procedures have been met.  

In addition to our registration with NSI TouchStar proudly holds accreditations with Constructionline and Safe Contractor, the UK’s leading health and safety certification. With over three decades of hands-on expertise in CCTV system installation, support, and maintenance, we're committed to customising our solutions to meet your business's unique requirements.  

CCTV Site Survey

When contemplating a CCTV installation, it's crucial to select a supplier who can comprehensively assess your specific needs and objectives. Factors such as industry, property size, and type of premises can influence the final installation recommendations.  

TouchStar provides a complimentary site visit as part of the initial assessment. The purpose of the survey is to gain in-depth knowledge of your requirements, understand system objectives and identify any potential challenges. During this site assessment, our installers evaluate all aspects from typical lighting conditions and surveillance areas through to operational parameters of the CCTV system, and remote monitoring and video motion detectors needs. This ensures we can provide you with a detailed report and accurate project costs.  

Budget

While it's essential to ensure security, it must be done within budget. However, when setting your budget, keep in mind that saving on security can be costlier in the long run. We can help you find the balance between affordability and quality, ensuring you have a solution that addresses your needs today and into the future.  

Conclusion

Choosing the right CCTV system for your company is not just about picking cameras. It's about aligning the system's capabilities with your business's specific needs. By considering the points outlined in this blog, you can ensure that your investment not only enhances security but also adds value to your business operations. For a deep dive into CCTV explore our full CCTV Buyers Guide or for personalised advice speak with one of our TouchStar experts for guidance on every aspect of CCTV system installation.