Finding the Right Safe for Your Business

business safetyAl Feldman
A business of any size needs a safe. From keeping cash secure to protecting key documents and sensitive customer data, safes restrict access to your valuables to only your most trusted personnel. They can also offer an extra layer of protection in the event of a disaster, so your assets stay safe no matter what happens when you’re not around. Because different businesses have different requirements, there are a number of styles of safe on the market. Here at Western Safe, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular options to help you find the best fit for your unique business needs.

Depository Safes

Depository safes, sometimes referred to as "drop safes," are very common in businesses that see many cash transactions or exchanges of other valuable materials in need of extra-secure handling. With a drop safe, your staff members are able to insert cash, documents, or other valuables without opening the safe and exposing its valuable contents. That means all your employees can use the safe without being given the entry code, and the safe remains securely closed until you want access. Large depository safes are ideal in an office space, although smaller versions can be installed under your point-of-sale stations, so cashiers can drop in large bills easily. For extra security, your drop safe can be bolted to the floor, which makes it more difficult for thieves to steal the safe.

Wall and Floor Safes

If you need a secure space on your premises, but don’t want it to become common knowledge, you could consider a wall safe or a floor safe. As you would probably imagine, wall and floor safes are installed into a wall or floor, although your options depend on the physical features of your building. Once installed, you can easily cover the door to the safe with decor or furnishings. Wall and floor safes typically have a smaller capacity than other styles, and so they are most suitable for holding documents and moderate volumes of cash. You can, however, still choose between analogue and digital locking mechanisms to suit your preference.

High-Security Safes

High-security safes are often the best option for businesses that deal with large volumes of cash or items of high value, such as jewelry. These safes are designed to resist attacks using the most advanced materials; they have thick walls made from several layers of steel and are bolted to the floor. Sometimes there is also a depository feature, so multiple cash drops can be made without opening the safe’s most secure chamber. Many high-security safes feature combination locks, which can be changed periodically for increased security, but you can also choose an electronic lock or another type of access control system. Some models have an optional auxiliary key lock, which requires the use of two keys to open the safe. Each key can be held by a different person, so no individual can open the safe. In many cases, the first key is held by an owner or manager, and the second is held by another employee or an armored car driver who comes to take the deposits to the bank.

Fireproof Safes

While theft is often the first thing that comes to mind when you think of security threats, it’s not the only potential danger; that’s why many safes are designed to protect their contents from fire damage, too. Fires are unpredictable and knowing your possessions will have a better chance of surviving these disasters will only increase your peace of mind. Fire-resistant safes can keep their valuable contents free from heat damage for over an hour of constant burning, and more advanced models can even protect against smoke damage. That’s on top of their ability to prevent burglars from stealing your essential belongings. Have been tested at the most stringent security levels, these safes offer reliable, all-round protection for your irreplaceable items. For more advice on how to keep your business assets safe and secure, contact Western Safe today and speak to our knowledgeable team. With over 80 years of experience, we’re ready to help you find your ideal safe.
Tags: Business safety