Security Check

His synthetic DNA solution can be dabbed on any item to mark it with a unique 60-digit DNA code – each code is unique to each bottle. Invisible to the naked eye, the dried solution cannot be washed away and turns bright blue when ‘read’ under a UV light.
“We give customers official stickers to let people know their premises and equipment are protected by SelectaDNA and these seem to do the trick,” says Morrissey. “Wherever our stickers appear, burglary numbers drop – the police have confirmed this.”
Because it is a liquid solution, users can mark anything of value – from plant and machinery to small items of jewellery. Every DNA kit sold is registered on a database and anything marked with the solution can be traced back to the person who bought the kit.
Banks such as the BNZ are using it too, with automatic spray units built into its branch doorways. When a robber flees the bank they get sprayed as they leave.
“Even the tiniest spot on the skin, clothes or anything else can be picked up by the UV light and will place them at the scene – there is only one way that DNA can be on them – they committed a crime,” says Morrissey.
“In the UK, every case that has gone to court where this DNA system has been used has ended with a conviction. It’s all they talk about in the prisons. Our marketing is targeted at criminals, we want them to know they won’t get away with crime if they have something that features our synthetic DNA.”
Morrissey says people who try to wash away the DNA solution won’t succeed because police only need a spot the size of a pinhead to identify its unique code.
“When police recover stolen property they check it for the DNA. In one recent case computers found at a P lab were returned to a local school as a direct result of the invisible marking,” says Morrissey.
“Police are telling us that homes, schools and offices that feature our ‘warning’ stickers are being left alone by criminals – the deterrent affect is what we want.”
Intruder alarm systems are also getting cheaper says Steve Kirk of Intek. The company supplies the security industry with all manner of security equipment, but says highly sophisticated wireless alarm systems – that don’t need any cables – can be bought for around $1000.
“The price doesn’t include installation as every location is different, but the technology is getting much cheaper now. So every business owner should consider installing even a modest system,” says Kirk.
“During the past couple of years, as the recession has bitten, I have seen how small firms are watching every dollar. The trend has been to increase security, rather than let money slip out the door.”
Secure entry systems
Of course security cameras, alarm systems and invisible markings are basically deterrents to would-be criminals. While it can be hard to counter the actions of crooked staff and visitors to your premises, using a secure entry system is something plenty of businesses use to keep unauthorized people out.
Among the firms operating in this area is Gallagher Access Systems. It designs and manufactures systems that provide electronic access control and intruder alarms management (formerly Cardax) and perimeter security (formerly PowerFence).
Michael Collins is the company’s sales manager and says Gallagher has always catered to the small to medium end of the market, providing intrusion prevention and secure access systems.
“Every business can suffer a loss from theft or burglary,” he says. “That kind of loss can close a small or medium sized business down. We have always catered to businesses that are faced with this uncertainty.
“Smaller companies want a system that is user-friendly, can help protect their assets and be monitored externally by a monitoring company.
“Additionally, smaller companies want a system that can support a few doors and be controlled electronically, something that will secure their most precious assets.”
Collins says companies concerned with protecting staff often want a system that prevents unauthorised access, has external monitoring and can control between five and 25 doors at a time. This is where Gallagher Access Systems provides a range of solutions.
Collins says his firm’s system can tell managers who is in the building (including visitors), offer protection against burglary and theft, and help provide a secure environment for staff working alone.
The issue of security is not going to go away for businesses, and with the government predicting harsh austerity measures in the coming months, there is a strong chance more people will turn to crime.
Whether it is planned or opportunistic, theft and vandalism cost businesses money. It’s time to take it seriously.
Steve Hart is a freelance journalist.
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