Protecting your business goes beyond simply installing a camera it’s about placing them in the right locations to maximize safety and deter criminal activity. Proper security camera placement can prevent theft, monitor employee activity, and ensure the safety of both your staff and customers. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 5 strategic spots to install security cameras for businesses and offer tips to get the most out of your surveillance system.

1. Entrances and Exits

Your business’s front and back doors are the most common points of entry for unauthorized visitors. Installing cameras at entrances and exits allows you to monitor everyone coming in and out, helping deter theft and providing a clear record of all visitors.

Tips for Entrances and Exits:

• Place cameras at a height that captures faces clearly without obstruction.

• Use wide-angle cameras to cover the entire doorway and approach areas.

• Consider motion detection features for after hours alerts.

Example: A front door camera with motion detection can immediately notify you if someone tries to enter after business hours, allowing you to respond quickly.

2. Cash Registers and Payment Areas

Any area where money is handled is a high risk target for theft or fraud. Cameras above cash registers, ATMs, or checkout counters can protect both employees and customers while providing evidence in case of disputes.

Tips for Cash Areas:

• Use overhead cameras to capture faces and transactions clearly.

• Combine cameras with POS system monitoring for added security.

• Ensure cameras are discreet but visible enough to deter theft.

Example: A dome camera positioned above a cash register can record both the customer and the transaction area, helping prevent fraudulent claims.

3. Storage Rooms and Stock Areas

Storage rooms and stock areas often contain high-value inventory, making them a prime target for internal and external theft. Monitoring these areas helps prevent losses and ensures that inventory movement is tracked accurately.

Tips for Storage Areas:

• Place cameras in corners for full coverage of the room.

• Use cameras with high-resolution recording to capture detailed images of items.

• Integrate surveillance with inventory management systems for real-time monitoring.

Example: Electronics or jewelry storage areas can benefit from dedicated cameras with night vision to prevent after-hours theft.

4. Parking Lots and Garages

Business security isn’t just about the inside of your building. Parking lots, garages, and delivery areas are vulnerable to vandalism, theft, or accidents. Cameras in these areas protect employees, customers, and vehicles.

Tips for Parking Areas:

• Use weatherproof cameras designed for outdoor use.

• Ensure proper lighting for night surveillance.

• Consider wide-angle cameras to cover multiple spots and entrances.

Example: A wide-angle camera at the parking lot entrance can monitor several spaces at once and provide clear footage for insurance claims if needed.

5. Hallways and Common Areas

Hallways, break rooms, and reception areas are often overlooked but are essential for monitoring day-to-day operations. Cameras in these areas help maintain safety, monitor employee activity, and provide an overview of your business operations.

Tips for Common Areas:

• Avoid placing cameras where they invade privacy (bathrooms, locker rooms).

• Use cameras in high-traffic areas to track movement and prevent accidents.

• Combine with access control systems for maximum security.

Example: A hallway camera can quickly resolve workplace disputes or accidents and ensure smooth business operations.

Final Tips for Effective Security Camera Placement

• Choose the right camera type: Bullet, dome, PTZ, or wide-angle depending on the area.

• High-resolution cameras: Ensure clear footage for identification and evidence.

• Visible vs. discreet cameras: Visible cameras act as a deterrent, while hidden cameras can catch sneaky activity.

• Integration: Pair cameras with alarms, smart locks, or access control systems for a comprehensive security solution.

Properly installed commercial security cameras protect your business, employees, and customers while giving you peace of mind. Strategic placement is key to maximizing the effectiveness of your surveillance system.

At ALARMTO, we specialize in designing custom security solutions for businesses of all sizes. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your business is fully protected with the right camera placement and monitoring system.