Clever use of CCTV by installer Maximum Protection Services has enabled Knights BMW Group to not only protect the high value stock at their Stoke on Trent site but add to the quality of service delivered to customers.
The nationwide installer has completed a project using static and dome cameras, monitored both on-site and remotely, that has resulted in significant cost savings for their client.
Knights BMW Group are authorised suppliers of BMWs and Minis in Staffordshire. When they started running out of space at their old premises, they began the search for a site where they could build a showroom that would provide their customers with an “outstanding experience”.
Building began on The Radial Park Site last year and, because the seven-acre site contains many high value vehicles, effective security was essential from day one. Maximum Protection Services was brought in to design a system that would provide at least 60 per cent coverage of the site, as required by Knights’ insurers.
“We went with Maximum Protection Services because they came back with a cost-effective solution that met our needs,” says Ewen Morrison, Property Manager for Knights BMW. “Not having had much previous experience with security, I really appreciated their straight talking approach which ensured we could work together to find the most effective solution for this rather unique site.”
After discussions, installer and client agreed on a plan that would cover significantly more than the required 60 per cent.
As well as addressing security, the system needed to track the whereabouts of employees in order to best direct customers.
Static and domes
A total of 14 static cameras and 17 Pelco Spectra IV dome cameras have been positioned throughout the site to provide comprehensive coverage. These are linked to 44 Adpro PIR detectors which automatically direct the cameras to zoom in on an area where the sensor has been broken. Samsung colour/mono static cameras have also been positioned at the gates to capture the number plates of all vehicles entering the premises.
A security hut has been constructed where a night-guard patrols the site via the cameras. “This set-up has allowed us to use just one guard and, therefore, make significant longer term cost savings,” said Ewen Morrison. “It also means that the guard can cover the site far more efficiently than if he was on foot.”
All images are also sent to Maximum Protection Services’ remote monitoring station to provide double coverage. Adpro FastTrace DVRs are used and an ADSL broadband connection links the two sites. Should a PIR trigger an alarm, the monitoring station can immediately contact the guard on site. A direct link to Staffordshire Police can also be established. If two PIRs are triggered, the monitoring station will automatically contact the police. Appearance was an important consideration for a brand synonymous with style and taste.
“We had to paint all the casings to match the cladding on the buildings so that they didn’t jar with the overall look and feel that had been created for each of the sites,” said Brian Snowden, MD of Maximum Protection Services.
Search and find
Both the BMW and Mini showrooms have Vista mini domes installed internally – chosen for their “excellent warranty and quality”. This allows staff at the separate receptions to use the CCTV to establish the whereabouts of staff and whether they are free or already with customers.
Maximum Protection Services has used equipment provider Norbain for many years. “The Norbain service is very expansive,” said Brian Snowden. “Everything from specification and design to technical support is available and they have an excellent knowledge of the products and how they can be integrated into a single system.”
The client is very happy with the results. Said Ewan Morrison: “The quality of images is excellent and Maximum Protection Services have done a very thorough and professional job in ensuring everything is positioned in the most effective place and that it all works perfectly. There is obviously a high theft risk for all BMW franchises, but I believe we have one of the most advanced and sophisticated systems in place to combat the issues of crime.”