There are some risks when using commercial CCTV systems with your hardware store, but knowing the risks ahead of time can help you better compensate for these disadvantages.

• Privacy issues can arise if CCTV systems are not kept out of private areas, such as restrooms and break rooms. The simplest solution to this risk is to keep all video surveillance to the parking lots and sales floors (and other public areas).
• Damage issues can prevent monitoring or gaps in the recording. Damage can come from a variety of sources, such as bad weather (power surges or outages), or theft and vandalism by perpetrators trying to conceal their identities or resell your cameras.
• Dependence issues can arise if there are not other security measures in place, such as burglar alarms or guards. Commercial CCTV systems are not 100% fail-safe, and can be sabotaged.

The advantages of adding a video surveillance system to your hardware store can outweigh the risks, thoroughly.

• Monitoring from remote locations gives you and your security team ease of use through network monitoring and alerts in real time for suspicious activity. With smart cameras and 24/7 monitor alerts, you won't have to be unpleasantly surprised in the morning to find a theft or vandalism has occurred.
• Hardware stores are often hard hit when it comes to theft of building supplies, construction materials, copper wiring, and other important materials. Video surveillance in hardware stores can help deter thefts from employees or trespassers, and can prove vital when it comes to prosecution of said thieves.
• Customer safety can be monitored more easily with video surveillance placed near power tools or lumber loading areas. While it is best to limit access to these areas while staff is short, it is not always possible. Therefore, cameras in place can record events for investigation of accidents, possibly saving you from potential litigation.
  

There are several questions and points to consider when installing a commercial CCTV system in your hardware store:

• What is the neighborhood like around your hardware store?
• How will a video surveillance system enhance or replace your current security system?
• What is the biggest threat to your hardware store's security?
• In the recent history of your store, have you encountered anything you wish you had gotten on video?
• What is the layout of your store, and where are the blind spots for your employees? Consider the way the store is laid out, and where not only employee sight is obscured, but where cameras would be obscured, and plan accordingly.
• Place cameras where there are more valuable assets, such as copper, lumber, electronics, and power tools.
• Visible cameras tend to discourage shoplifting.

Video surveillance and burglar alarms in hardware stores can work in concert with other security measures to create a decrease in shrinkage and superior security measures. Not only can cameras help stop and prevent crime in progress, they can help with investigations and prosecution of criminals, resulting in remuneration of your losses, and increases in revenue.