The Importance of Security System Maintenance

You rely heavily on your security system, so it’s vital that every aspect of it remains in full working order so that it continues to protect you and your property without compromise. Here we look at the importance of security system maintenance, what it involves and why it should form an integral part of your overall security plan.

What does security system maintenance involve?

There are various aspects to security system maintenance. Let’s run through it step by step:

Lock maintenance

The importance of regular lock maintenance cannot be stressed enough.

Lubricating locks periodically with a graphite-based lubricant or a silicone spray helps ensure the internal mechanisms operate smoothly. This is important because it prevents wear and tear from friction, and prolongs the life of the lock.

Routine lock inspections are also important. Checking for signs of wear, damage or rust can help identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems.

Early detection also allows for timely repair or replacement, so maintaining the security, integrity and functionality of the locks so they continue to protect your property.

One of the main problems that arises due to a lack of lock maintenance is key jamming. This occurs when dirt, debris or misalignment of internal components obstruct the movement of the key. This can be prevented by keeping keys clean, and regularly lubricating the lock.

It is also imperative to avoid excessive force. If a key is proving hard to turn, be sure not to force it, otherwise it can damage the lock of key. Instead, use a lock lubricant, or call a professional locksmith for assistance.

Door and Door Closer Maintenance

Regular door and door closer maintenance ensures smooth operation to maintain security and accessibility.

Hinge and alignment checks should form part of your regular security maintenance programme to ensure doors open and close smoothly.

Hinges, locks and door closers should be regularly lubricated to reduce friction and wear. They should also be thoroughly checked for functionality after spells of particularly cold or hot weather. Extremes of temperature can cause doors to swell, which can door closer arms to bend and locks to become misaligned and prone to jamming.

Door closers play an essential role in fire safety, ensuring doors automatically close behind people, containing fires and smoke and allowing safe evacuation.

In terms of security, door closers prevent unauthorised access and reduce the risk of doors being left ajar unintentionally.

Safe Maintenance

You rely on your safe to protect your valuables from theft and environmental damage, which is why regular safe maintenance is essential.

Periodical checks to ensure safe locking mechanisms should form part of your maintenance programme. This involves testing locks – mechanical or electric – to ensure they are functioning properly.

Also inspect the safes for signs of wear and tear, such as loose handles, rust or sluggish operation, all of which could indicate the need for a servicing or repairs.

What you are looking to avoid is compromised mechanisms which could make the safe easier to break into. Safe maintenance will also help prevent lockouts, or failure to lock properly.

Finally, regularly maintaining your safe will enhance its longevity and reliability.

Alarm System Maintenance

Your intruder alarm system plays a very important role in keeping your property safe and in deterring intruders and alerting you or your Alarm Receiving Centre to potential break-ins.

Regular testing of alarm sensors and the alarm itself will ensure the system responds correctly to triggers such as movement, open doors or windows, or smoke. Identifying any faults or malfunctions early will help prevent security breaches.

Alarm system maintenance should also include the cleaning of sensors. Dust and debris can interfere with the way the sensors function. Regular cleaning will ensure they operate at optimum efficiency.

It is also important to regularly check and replace wireless alarm batteries to prevent system failure, and to ensure back-up batteries are functional so that the alarm continues to work during a power failure, and does not sound when the mains power is disconnected.

Finally, the alarm system’s software should be kept up to date. Manufacturers regularly release updates to fix bugs, improve performance and enhance security features. Keeping the system updated helps protect against vulnerabilities and ensures optimal operation.

Why is security system maintenance so important?

As well as the various benefits we’ve already discussed, security system maintenance is important for the following reasons:

Insurance compliance

Many insurance providers will demand evidence that a security system has been maintained and serviced in line with certain standards, such as National Insurance Inspectorate NSI Gold.

Complying with insurance warranties like these is essential. Fail to do so and the insurer will be discharged from liability. So, if you need to make a claim on your policy, there will in most circumstances be no payout.

Alarm Receiving Centre compliance

Monitored alarm systems remove the need to employ systems or personnel to keep tabs on intruder and fire alarm systems around the clock. An Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) contacts the emergency services immediately once an activation has been verified.

Accredited ARCs hold a Unique Reference Number (URN), so they are able to alert the emergency services without having to use the 999 operator system, making it easier to get to the right services much faster.

There are various criteria that need to be met before an ARC will approve an alarm system for use, including having an accredited maintenance system in place.

Ensuring systems meet evolving site and compliance requirements

Security needs change, as do regulations such as health and safety and fire safety.

Adapting and upgrading systems to meet changing needs is essential, and a security maintenance programme will highlight where upgrades are required in order to remain safe and compliant.

Accredited security system maintenance from Barry Bros Security

At Barry Bros Security, our tailored security system maintenance and servicing contracts cover everything, from ensuring police response compliance to checking intruder alarms, CCTV, remote access and electronic locking devices are fully functional so that you have complete peace of mind that your property, people and valuables are always protected.

Established in 1945, Barry Bros Security is National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold accredited. Our security systems meet European and British standards and are fully insurance compliant.

We offer flexible, ongoing system maintenance and servicing contracts to suit your individual budget and needs. Get in touch today to discuss your requirements.