17 Best Commercial CCTV Systems For UK Small Business

While both CCTV cameras and security cameras accomplish the same task of operating as surveillance cameras, there are significant differences between these two types of security systems in various ways.

CCTV system stands for Closed Circuit Television system, and security cameras is the generalised name given to IP cameras.

Among the differences, CCTV operates as a closed system and can only be accessed at a terminal. IP cameras are an open system connected to the internet, and the system can be accessed from anywhere, including from a mobile device.

While nearly everyone looking to add security to their home or business wonders whether they need surveillance cameras or an alarm system.

It is important to note that these are two separate and distinct security systems, and one does not necessarily replace the other. Security best practices would dictate having an alarm working alongside a video surveillance system.

However, if you have to choose only one, then there are factors you need to consider to decide which one is best for you.

In many instances, the mere appearance of a surveillance camera will not prevent someone from breaking in. The loud and attention-grabbing noise of an alarm being set off typically stops the break-in.

However, CCTV cameras will document the criminal activity, usually with a digital video recorder or a network video recorder providing evidence to show the police. An alarm alone will not.

A multitude of factors figures into the cost of CCTV cameras. To begin with, the type of CCTV system you choose each has its base price.

Then, the number of cameras, what kind of CCTV camera you want, the installation location for each CCTV camera, whether inside or outside, and if any additional materials or labour is involved in the actual fitting out of the cameras is needed.

You should expect the overall cost to be between £350 and £2,000.

Typically, there are only two scenarios where you need specific permission for security cameras. Listed property consent is required for all listed properties, and those who rent should acquire the property owner’s written consent.

There are additional factors that need to be considered when installing video cameras. Security camera systems can affect data protection laws, and thus the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) requires that CCTV systems and security cameras be registered and comply with data protection laws.

A Data Protection Code of Practice for Surveillance Cameras and Personal Information is a manual published by the ICO and addresses issues such as when security cameras and closed-circuit television should be used, where you can and cannot place a security camera, how to legally use video surveillance camera systems and all other legal matters and responsibility for operating them.

It is legal to install and use IP cameras and CCTV in the workplace. It is done legally, and the company has established and enforced a sound and lawful CCTV / surveillance camera policy.

In the UK, there is an entire body of law governing CCTV use, which must comply with GDPR regulations. The company must register with the ICO and notify each employee of their use. No security camera can be installed in a private area. Anyone recorded by the system has the right to view the recording.

For more see GOV.UK

A study conducted by Ragged University found that CCTV can result in a “small, but statistically significant, reduction in crime”. But the study concluded that the results demonstrate that CCTV should be directed at specific crimes, such as car theft, as it had demonstrated no reduction in violent crime rates.

Yes, the use of CCTV falls under the umbrella of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and the operation of any surveillance system must be done in full compliance with GDPR regulations and standards.

This goes hand in hand with being fully compliant with ICO regulations and standards, but GDPR is a separate and distinct regulatory arena.

The GDPR focuses on transparency, which can be tricky when applied to security practices and regulations. It is essential that any business using or wanting to use CCTV become fully aware of its GDPR responsibilities and obligations.

This would greatly depend upon the size and type of business you operate. A small candy store has a completely different security concern than a jewellery store, as does a Cafe on High Street compared to a community fast food outlet.

CORSEE, SANSCO, ANRAN, ARLO, Tonton, SANNCE, and Reolink are all leaders in the CCTV for business niche, and each makes several options that should address nearly any small business needs.