Wednesday, October 26, 2011

A Quick Guide to Security Lights for the Business

Making the place of work or shop safe should be of utmost importance to business owners. If the business is on a tight budget and cannot invest in high end security devices at the time being, there is an option for them to use security lights that can help to deter those thinking of committing criminal acts. The use of fluorescent tube lights is a very practical choice in order to lighten up a particular area, while saving a lot of energy and reducing electricity bills. Another option is to use metal halide lighting, which is also quite popular for its low price, brightness and energy efficiency. Here is a quick guide for businesses looking to install security lights.

Reasons for Using these Lighting Fixtures

Primarily, every business owner wants to protect his or her property, investments and even employees. Outdoor lights provide increased security for the shop or the offices, as the light they provide can ward off potential intruders or burglars. It also saves the business a lot of time and money since most security lights are equipped with motion sensors and only switch on when they detect some kind of movement. This way, the business does not have to waste electricity when they leave the lights on all night while the shop is closed. People lurking around the premise will think that someone is up and watching over the area, discouraging those with criminal intent from breaking in. It is also an affordable alternative to installing more sophisticated security measures. If surveillance equipment is already installed and existing, security lights can complement these devices by providing more illumination.

Different Types and Features of Security Lights

Traditionally, people use lights that are kept on all day and night, which are installed in and around the business premises. Having these is beneficial if the area where the business is located has corners or hallways where it is naturally dark or shadowy even during the daytime. However, these can potentially increase the electricity bills because the lights are switched on round the clock. Even if the lights are switched on only during the evening, they can still waste a lot of energy and money if they are left on all night.

Due to the advancements in technology we have at present, businesses can utilise security lights that are equipped with motion detectors, which will only switch the lights on once any movement around the vicinity is detected. This is energy efficient as there will be no need to leave the lights on all the time and yet it can catch the intruder off guard, while alerting other people in the area about the possible intrusion. It is a cost effective way to ensure the safety of the premises, the employees and the whole company in general.

If there is really a dire need to keep at least a little bit of light on in the vicinity, business owners can also go for hi lo lighting. This type of security light stays on and keeps an area dimly lit. However, once it detects movement, it turns on its full brightness. This is particularly useful for parts of a shop that still need a small amount of lighting but require significant illumination the moment a customer or a shoplifter approaches the area.

How It Works

The sensors that security lights are equipped with can usually detect movement and heat. That way, it can sense when a person, animal or car is approaching. It can either be infrared or microwave sensors, which work very similarly. Not only do these sensors trigger the switching on of the lights, but also automatically turn them off after a while. This technology provides a very convenient way to keep every location as safe as possible.

A lot of companies still opt for fluorescent tube lights in order to keep particular areas of their business well lit. However, security lights that are dedicated for the sole purpose of keeping the premises safe should also be an investment that every company should make. When selecting the right fixtures to use for the shop or office, metal halide lighting should also be looked into as it is popular for being decorative, affordable and long lasting. This guide should equip any business owner with enough information prior to installing security lighting. 

About the Author

Iain Jenkins writes articles for Litecraft Commercial, a professional light supplier of a number of bulbs and a variety of lights to suit the needs you require to bring out the best in your rooms.  Litecraft offer a wide range of lights such as security lights, track lights and emergency lighting.   

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