Almost one in four employees believe that their boss could be doing more to minimise the incidence of crimes like robbery, shoplifting, internal theft, break in, vandalism, and assault, according to research by ADT Security.
The Small Business Crime Index surveyed more than 500 small to medium business (SMB) owners and 500 SMB employees across Australia. It is the most comprehensive research into small business security measures and perceptions since ADT Security’s inaugural survey in 2010.
The survey found that almost half Australian SMB employees at 46 per cent would simply feel safer if their employer rostered two or more staff at all times, while a quarter wanted more training on security systems and procedures.
When asked what physical security measures could help improve safety, 33 per cent supported the use of CCTV in the workplace, a quarter wanted a monitored alarm system, and one in five called for panic buttons to be installed.
For nearly half of respondents, 44 per cent, leaving work late at night or early in the morning is the main factor that causing concern about safety and security at work. Working shifts alone and being the target of assault are other major concerns.
For employees that have fallen victim to a security threat, 34 per cent suffer from anxiety and 17 per cent are now too scared to be alone on premises. Female employees and those aged under 30 are more likely to report these feelings.
Around 14 per cent of SMB owners admit to having no measures in place to help protect employees and reduce theft. More than a third (37 per cent) said they never train their staff on security procedures, while 16 per cent only provide training when new systems are introduced or during a staff induction period.
“While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of crime, a comprehensive security plan that takes into consideration employee safety concerns can help reduce the risk,” said ADT Security’s Michael Bates.
“This is particularly important as small businesses, particularly those in the retail sector, often roster just one or two people on late night and early morning shifts to cut costs.
“The research also shows that employers need to be doing more to train staff in how to respond to a security threat as well as how to operate and respond to the security system. At a minimum, employers should provide refresher training on security systems and procedures once a year.”
For a complete copy of the ADT Security Small Business Crime Index visit: http://www.adtsecurity.com.au/small-business/smb-security-research.
