Freight crime is at critical mass in the UK, costing the economy around £700 millon every year. A lot of this crime takes place around warehouses and loading bays, with food and beverage items the most commonly stolen goods, along with electronics and fuel being popular targets. While most of the crime takes place on unsecured roadside locations, the frequency of crimes that take place in industrial sites means modern loading bays need to be equipped with effective warehouse security measures.
It’s also worth noting that an ill-equipped loading bay might also suffer from more unintended damage or vandalism. This article offers insights into installations that can increase security for warehouse loading bays, ensuring your modular docks stay safe from crimes and incidents.
Smart CCTV, ANPR & monitoring solutions
One of the most important things for security in warehouse settings and loading bays is proper monitoring technology. CCTV is the industry standard in terms of workplace security, but there are plenty of ways that they can be made smarter and safer. For example, many cameras can be connected directly to dock management systems.
ANPR
If you want to take theft prevention to the next level, you can do so with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). ANPR logs every plate and cross-references it against the day’s schedule. Unrecognised vehicles can then be blocked from activating docks.
Impact sensors
Cameras can also be linked to impact sensors, capturing footage of irresponsible truck handling, which is better for proving liability for insurance claims or legal action.
Proper monitoring is essential for both preventing crimes, responding quickly and ensuring meaningful restitution when necessary. Having a loading bay security officer on hand to watch video feed is important for maximising the efficacy of monitoring measures.
Hiring for warehouse security jobs
Warehouse security jobs have salaries that average around £26,000 a year, meaning it’s a fairly entry-level position. However, this doesn’t mean you should skimp on skill, even if it means making your salary offering a little bit more competitive.
Make sure that you check for certain skills and competencies, such as:
- Physical fitness
- Ability to use and understand monitoring technology
- Communication skills
- Gerneral vigilance and alertness
- Conflict resolution capacities
- Overall customer service ability
- Legal and in-house rule understanding
Getting the right security team in will help to solidify a strong surveillance approach.
Automatic vehicle restraints
Many consider this the ultimate security and safety feature for loading bays. Automatic vehicle restraints use a heavy-duty arm to hook onto the rear underrun guards of trucks, or alternatively block the wheels, when they pull into loading areas. This means drivers cannot simply drive away with goods until the warehouse manager releases the lock from inside. It also helps to eliminate trailer creep, meaning the trailer can’t edge away into a calamitous collision.
Sequential interlocking controls
Software-based logic ensures a clear workflow that helps to solidify safety and theft prevention. Sequential controls keep certain rules in place, like the bay door cannot be opened until a restraint is engaged, restraints can’t be released until the door is fully closed and the dock leveller is stowed. These controls ensure that trucks can’t pull away in unexpected fashions. This should be paired with a master control panel for better monitoring.
Make smart investments and secure your loading bay
If you’re looking to enhance your warehouse security and loading bay theft prevention, make sure to invest in equipment and staff of a high-quality. It’s important to do your due diligence and find reputable suppliers, along with good, committed staff to ensure that your goods and equipment stay safe and in the right hands for years to come.
