As per the survey conducted by National Retail Federation, in 2019, retailers lost approximately 62 billion dollars due to theft and fraud.
Sadly, this number only seems to be surging high every year.
Such thefts and frauds cause not only financial loss but also have immense psychological effects.
Furthermore, to cover the loss, generally, retailers increase the prices of their products. Thus the consumers have to suffer ultimately.
Also, theft and frauds are just some of the ways in which retail stores are not safe.
Apart from this, there are numerous threats to the stores.
Therefore, paying attention to the store’s safety should be at the top of your priorities.
Here’s how you can do it!
1. Protection From Fire Hazards
Exposed wires of lights or computers, improper chemical storage, combustible material, or open flames in the display can cause a fire in the store. Needless to say, it can cause harm to your employees and customers along with damaging property.
Therefore, you need to ensure that your premises are well equipped with smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and fire alarms.
Likewise, schedule routine fire extinguishers inspections to ensure they work properly. Also, train your employees on how to use them.
2. Safeguard Company Premises
As stores are more prone to thefts and frauds, you need to elevate the security of the premises. Install CCTV cameras to keep an eye on every person. Make sure your data is encrypted and stored properly.
In addition to this, ensure that the doors of the premises are secured. If you are concerned about safety, you can consider installing a new lock. Or, you can simply rekey the lock to avoid installation hassle.
Nonetheless, the choice between rekeying your locks vs changing your locks is often difficult. Therefore, you should consult a commercial locksmith as they can provide you with the best advice.
3. Try Ergonomics
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ergonomics is the study of employees in their working environment.
In simple terms, here, the working environment is modified according to the employee’s capabilities and not the other way around.
The logic here is very simple, i.e., mismatching the capabilities and requirements can possibly cause issues or even injuries. It further affects the overall productivity and efficiency of the employees.
4. Make Sure The Air Quality Is Apt
Proper ventilation is a necessary element of a good retail store. In the absence of proper ventilation, the risk of mold, fungus, bacteria, and pests increases significantly.
Therefore, the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union (RWDSU) suggests a mechanical system. It will help in improving air circulation throughout the store.
In case you already have a system installed, it is essential to check it every once in a while to ensure that the system is working properly. In addition to this, you should also open the windows to let the fresh air come in.
The Bottom Line,
These are some of the ways in which you can protect your retail store from thefts and other kinds of damage. Also, make sure to follow OSHA safety recommendations.
This way, you can focus on your business operation without worrying about safety.
