For decades, manned guarding patrols have been the cornerstone of business security, providing a visible presence to deter crime and respond to incidents. But with rising costs and technological advances, businesses are exploring alternatives that offer similar peace of mind — without the expense of full-time security staff. In this article, we examine how manned guarding works, why it has been effective, and how AI-powered solutions like intelligent guard tours can provide a proactive, cost-effective approach to site security.
Manned guarding patrols involve deploying trained personnel to a site to provide a visible security presence. Guards patrol locations at scheduled or random intervals, respond to incidents in real time, and adapt to dynamic security situations. For small to medium-sized businesses, particularly on trading estates, manned guarding patrols have traditionally been the first line of defence, reducing crime and providing peace of mind.
The effectiveness of manned guarding patrols comes from several factors:
However, there are some drawbacks. Manned guarding is expensive, and in quieter locations, its effectiveness can be limited. Criminals may simply wait until a patrol has passed.
At this point, many businesses turn to their CCTV systems. However, it’s important to recognise that cameras no longer deter criminals in the same way they once did. While recorded footage can support investigations, on its own it rarely prevents incidents from happening.
If you’re looking for an always-on security solution at a fraction of the cost of manned guards, remote CCTV monitoring is worth considering.
Remote CCTV monitoring is where trained operators keep an eye on your business, using a blend of technologies including cameras, sensors, and even speakers for extra deterrence. This provides a proactive response to incidents and can help prevent significant losses from crime, fire, or flooding.
Alert Monitoring are remote CCTV monitoring experts, operating from a purpose-built facility. We make the most of the infrastructure you already have, saving you both cost and hassle.
Using the latest AI-backed technology in remote monitoring to reduce false alerts, our SIA-approved operators look after your property and people. In the event of an incident, they may contact a keyholder or coordinate a guarding response.
Operators can also monitor incidents live, intervening in real time to help prevent losses. For added deterrence, speakers can be integrated into your system to issue verbal warnings, encouraging intruders to leave the area immediately.
Our intelligent guard tours take remote monitoring to the next level. Rather than reacting to alerts, intelligent guard tours use your existing camera system to carry out random, regular checks of your site. This adds another layer of protection and can save your business money by reducing your need for manned guarding.
Whether you’re a small enterprise or large multi-site business, intelligent guard tours will give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Manned guard patrols have served businesses well for decades, but rising costs and limitations in quieter locations mean it’s not always the most efficient solution.
Remote CCTV monitoring, combined with AI-powered intelligent guard tours, provides a proactive, cost-effective alternative. By leveraging existing infrastructure and intelligent technology, businesses can reduce risk, respond rapidly to incidents, and gain true peace of mind, without the expense of full-time security staff. For modern enterprises, smarter monitoring is no longer optional; it’s the future of effective site security.
