Many of
the large number of CCTV installations being caried out are a little
dubious to say the least! There is a
lack of standards and false claims are commonplace. The problem is
that CCTV is a far more complex subject than many realise. There is
no easy 'one fits all' solution.
The
difference between different images might not be apparent at first
glance. However, the devil is in the detail and closer scrutiny will
reveal the difference with a good detailed image being vital for
recognition or identification of the subject.
It is
devastating to have CCTV installed and record an incident which is of
no use to the police as the images do not clearly identify those
involved resulting in no further action being taken. You might know
who is involved but the main purpose of CCTV is to prove it.
Our
approach is to assess the needs and discuss the expectations. A site
survey is then carried out and a detailed specification provided
which indicates the design purpose for each camera. We also have to
consider the implications of the Data Protection Act. For example, it
is not permissable to record sound under normal circumstances. The
systems we specify are to the standard required where CCTV is a
condition for licensing purposes.
We carry
out a survey and provide a detailed specification and quotation
without charge.
Design
purpose for cameras are to provide;
Prescence.
Easy
to acheive but of limited use when depending on recordings where at
best, the time of an incident can be verified.
Recognition.
Persons
or vehicles can be recognized if they are known to you. Often, where
identification is achieved at an entrance for example, recognition
from other images can be sufficient to provide evidence for an incident.
Identification.
Can
be difficult to achieve but essential for a prosecution to take place.
If a CCTV
System does not meet its objectives, it is not 'cheap', just an
expensive toy. Some companies sell CCTV, systems based on 'what's in
the kit' while others provide security.
We can
offer the following;
Professional Systems
The word
'professional' is all too frequently mis-used when
selling and describing CCTV equipment. For
example, many large stores sell CCTV kits which they describe as for
professional use suitable for domestic and commercial use. If they
really believe this, why do they spend vast amounts of money for
'proper' systems to be installed at their stores by professional
security companies?
The answer
is quite simple. They need to minimise their losses from theft and
provide added protection for their staff by deterring abuse and
attacks. They know (as do the regular offenders) that high quality
images are required for a successful prosecution.