Following are some of the most common security measures that retail stores use to protect themselves against abnormal loss.
1. Video surveillance systems
2. Prominent signs
3. Bright lighting
4. Lack of hiding places
5. Break-resistant windows and doors
6. Restricted access to back stores, staff areas, or system computers
7. Silent or audible alarms
8. Mandatory security and emergency training
9. Routine inspections
The three most important measures among these are video surveillance, the use of bright lighting, and restricting access “behind the counter.”
Video Surveillance is a key element in any security infrastructure and is being used very commonly across the globe. Video surveillance works closely with bright lighting to help security guards silently find if any individual is shoplifting or seems suspicious. The goal is to ensure limit abnormal loss by dealing with intruders before they can damage anything or dealing with shoplifters as silently as possible.
The lack of hiding places and break-resistant windows and doors are primarily to support the third most important measure; restricting access behind the counter. By preventing access to secure areas, retail stores not only protect their inventory but also make sure that company secrets are kept safe from external threats. Mandatory security and emergency training also include elements that help security guards and staff stop intruders from getting access to the secure areas and deal with intruders if they are inside.
These three security measures form the basic security infrastructure of a retail business. All other measures often work in tandem to support these measures and make sure they are performing efficiently.