An important part of a security plan for most businesses is how to implement lighting to deter crime. Security lighting can be an effective means of protecting business property if properly utilized, but it can also be a waste of resources or even a hindrance if poorly planned. Below are several considerations when using lighting in a commercial environment and how you can provide the best possible security:

Lighting may not always be needed

One of the first things that should be considered before purchasing costly lighting equipment and control devices is whether lighting is relevant in a given setting. It is often assumed that the more lighting, the better. However, that is not always true in every circumstance. In fact, too much lighting can be a hindrance by encouraging crime to occur; this may seem counterintuitive, but lighting can help a criminal gain access easier by exposing locks, hinges and other potential weaknesses. For environments where facilities are closed at night, it may be best not to have any offsite illumination in order to keep criminals away.

Consider lighting placement

Another consideration is to determine optimum placement of security lights inside and outside your facility. Lights should be carefully placed and aimed at critical assets and never toward the faces of the audience. If improperly installed, direct lighting can then distract individuals by creating glare, shadows, and dark spots, all of which are dangerous hiding areas.

Balance energy efficiency with security

Two competing factors, efficiency and security, should both be carefully considered when looking at security lighting. Some types of lighting used in security systems are not practical due to their high costs. In addition, other types, such as sodium vapor lamps, are inexpensive to purchase and operate but may cause color washout at night and may actually mask crime.

Protect lighting from vandalism

Lighting itself must also be kept safe from vandals or would-be thieves. These individuals often seek to disable security systems, which includes lighting components in various configurations, and this is why physically protecting lighting is important. The destruction of components can be prevented by using high-quality hardware that prevents breakage; such components include grates, screens, and video. Try not to leave open light fixtures exposed to curious eyes, or you run the risk of them being broken. The higher you can place a light source, the less likely it is to be broken; however, also keep in mind that maintenance departments should be able to access burned-out bulbs at any time.

For more information, contact a company like A Tech / Easy Living Store.