What fire and security protection do you need as an automotive business? Let’s be honest cars have always been a target for thieves and vandals. So how do you ensure your garage, repair shop, tyre centre or sales forecourt is protected from fire hazards and security threats?
In this blog JKE outlines the best measures to take to safeguard your automotive business; whatever you do or sell on your premises this blog covers the essential systems you need to have installed, maintained and fully operational 24/7.
Essential Fire and Security Protection
An obvious statement; but your automotive business houses valuable assets whether that’s the actual vehicles, machinery, tools, stock, and even customer data. In the event of a fire or security breach, you risk losing physical assets and reputation.
Let’s not forget you need to comply with a range of regulations and your insurance policies will require specific fire safety and security protocols in place. Check the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and you’ll see what’s essential for your auto business.
Security systems for protecting High-Value Assets
Garages often store customer vehicles, parts, and expensive equipment, while showrooms display high-value cars. A fire or security incident could result in massive financial losses. Without the proper protection, the cost of replacing vehicles and machinery, not to mention the damage to the building, can be crippling.
Compliance with Regulations
Let’s kick off with regulations; such as ‘The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) is the main piece of legislation governing fire safety in buildings in England and Wales.’ If you are found not to comply before or after a fire situation you’ll be faced with huge consequences.
Implementing robust fire and security systems helps ensure compliance with local laws, safeguarding both your assets and your business continuity.
Safeguarding Employees and Customers
Fire and security incidents not only damage property but also pose serious risks to human life. Ensuring your employees and customers are safe by implementing protection measures reflects a commitment to their well-being, improving your business reputation and ensuring legal protection in case of emergencies.
Fire Protection for your premises
Whether you are a small business with a repair and MOT garage, a franchisee with multiple showrooms or an owner of a tyre centre chain with national sites it’s imperative you protect your automotive business from fire hazards. In this blog we’re just going to talk about the fire systems that JKE can support the installation of but obviously there’s also things like fire risk assessments and evacuation plans that you need to consider.
Here’s the top things to get installed and maintained for fire protection:
- Fire detection systems like smoke detectors
- Fire alert systems (fire alarms)
- Fire suppression systems (like sprinklers)
- Fire doors
- Emergency lighting
- Illuminated fire exit signs
Security Protection for your premises
Let’s be clear, you’ve probably already experienced some sort of criminal activity on your site whether that’s a jimmied lock, vandalism, stolen tools, break ins or vehicle theft. You might even have been a victim of employee crime with tools going walk about. It’s the nature of things these days.
1. High-Quality Surveillance Systems
Installing a comprehensive CCTV system in your garage and showroom is one of the most effective deterrents against theft and vandalism. Ensure that your cameras cover high-risk areas like entrances, exits, parking lots, service bays, and vehicle display areas. Modern systems offer features such as motion detection, night vision, and cloud storage, allowing you to monitor the premises remotely.
2. Access Control Systems
Limit access to certain areas of your business, office areas or store rooms, with access control systems. These systems allow only authorised personnel to enter restricted zones, reducing the risk of internal theft. Options range from keycard and PIN-based systems to more advanced biometric scanners.
3. Intruder Alarms
An efficient burglar alarm system is a must for protecting your garage and showroom from unauthorised entry. Choose a system that can be integrated with your CCTV cameras and access control measures for a cohesive approach. Ensure the alarm system is linked to a security company or the police for an immediate response in case of a break-in.
4. Perimeter Security
For automotive businesses with outdoor parking lots or vehicle display areas, perimeter security is vital. Install motion-sensor lighting, security fences, and gates with secure locks. Adding these features can deter potential intruders and give you an additional layer of protection.
Fire and security protection are integral to the safety, success, and longevity of your automotive business. Whether you operate a garage or a showroom, taking proactive steps to safeguard your assets, employees, and customers is a necessary investment. From installing fire suppression systems to implementing advanced security measures, a comprehensive protection plan ensures your business can operate smoothly and without the looming threat of disaster.
By making fire and security protection a priority, you not only comply with regulations and reduce risks but also build a stronger, more resilient business that customers trust. Don’t wait for a criminal incident to happen – take action now to protect what matters most.
If you’re looking for advice with any of the points we have mentioned contact JKE today as our team can help (phone 0800 2545645 or email support@jkesecurity.co.uk)