Top 10 Security Camera Mistakes Kenyan Businesses Make
Many businesses invest in CCTV systems but fail to maximize their effectiveness. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Poor Camera Placement
Mistake: Installing cameras too high or at wrong angles
Solution: Position cameras at 2.5-3 meters height for facial recognition. Cover entry points, cash registers, and high-value areas.
2. Insufficient Lighting
Mistake: Relying solely on camera night vision in pitch darkness
Solution: Install motion-activated lights in critical areas. Ensure minimum 10 lux lighting for color night vision.
3. Not Securing the DVR/NVR
Mistake: Leaving recording equipment in accessible areas
Solution: Lock DVR/NVR in secure rooms. Use UPS backup to prevent power outage data loss.
4. Inadequate Storage Capacity
Mistake: Only 7 days of footage storage
Solution: Plan for minimum 30 days retention. Calculate: Camera resolution × Frame rate × Hours × Days = Storage needed.
5. Forgetting About Bandwidth
Mistake: Installing IP cameras without considering network capacity
Solution: Calculate bandwidth: Number of cameras × Bitrate. Upgrade network infrastructure if needed.
6. No Regular Maintenance
Mistake: "Set and forget" mentality
Solution: Monthly checks:
7. Ignoring Blind Spots
Mistake: Assuming full coverage without testing
Solution: Walk your premises after installation. Identify and cover blind spots with additional cameras or mirrors.
8. Using Consumer-Grade Equipment for Commercial Use
Mistake: Buying cheap residential cameras for business
Solution: Invest in commercial-grade equipment with:
9. Not Training Staff
Mistake: Only owner knows how to operate system
Solution: Train at least 3 staff members on:
10. Neglecting Cybersecurity
Mistake: Using default passwords, no network security
Solution:
Cost of These Mistakes
These errors cost Kenyan businesses an average of KES 200,000 annually through:
Get It Right the First Time
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