Key Considerations for Facilities Managers Implementing Video Surveillance
For facilities managers, video surveillance is no longer just a security tool. When implemented correctly, it supports risk management, safety, operations, and compliance across the entire property.
That’s why planning matters.
In a feature published by Buildings magazine, a leading trade publication for facilities and property professionals, the article “The Keys to Implementing an Effective Surveillance System” highlighted the importance of thoughtful system design and included insights from Vulcan Security Systems on how commercial facilities can deploy video surveillance more effectively.
Below are the key takeaways, updated for today’s IP video systems and the realities facilities managers face in 2026.
Start With Clear Objectives, Not Camera Counts
One of the most common mistakes facilities managers make is starting with equipment instead of purpose.
Before upgrading or installing a video surveillance system, it’s critical to define:
- What risks you are trying to reduce
- What activities you need visibility into
- Where incidents are most likely to occur
- How video will be used day-to-day
A system designed to “check a box” for insurance or ownership requirements rarely delivers long-term value. A system designed around clear operational and safety goals almost always does.
Camera Placement and Lighting Matter More Than Hardware
Even high-quality cameras will fail if they are placed incorrectly or installed without considering lighting conditions.
Effective planning includes:
- Evaluating natural and artificial lighting
- Understanding how shadows, glare, and nighttime conditions affect image quality
- Placing cameras where incidents actually occur, not just where it is convenient to mount hardware
Facilities managers who account for lighting and line-of-sight early avoid the frustration of unusable footage later.
Why IP Video Has Replaced Analog Systems
The article also highlights the advantages of IP-based video systems over traditional analog cameras connected via coaxial cable.
Today, IP video is the standard for commercial facilities because it offers:
- Higher image quality
- Easier scalability
- Remote access and monitoring
- Integration with analytics and monitoring services
- Better long-term flexibility
Analog systems still exist, but they limit future upgrades and often cost more to maintain over time.
Where Surveillance Cameras Deliver the Most Value
Video surveillance supports far more than theft prevention.
Facilities managers use video systems to support:
- Slip-and-fall investigations
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Employee safety reviews
- Vendor and contractor accountability
- Dispute resolution
- After-hours monitoring
Visible cameras also serve as a deterrent to vandalism, theft, and fraudulent claims. And when legitimate incidents occur, video evidence often speeds resolution through insurance review, settlement, or dismissal.
Video Surveillance as a Risk Management Tool
From a facilities perspective, video surveillance is fundamentally about risk management.
Clear, time-stamped footage helps organizations:
- Verify what actually happened
- Reduce false or exaggerated claims
- Shorten investigations
- Limit legal exposure
- Protect both employees and the organization
The ability to answer questions quickly and objectively is often where the real ROI shows up.
Do Not Overlook Policy, Access, and Maintenance
Technology alone does not create an effective surveillance system.
Facilities managers should work with leadership to establish clear policies covering:
- Who can access video footage
- How long footage is retained
- How footage is used and shared
- System maintenance and monitoring responsibilities
Without defined ownership and maintenance plans, even a well-designed system can degrade over time.
Modern Surveillance Requires Ongoing Oversight
In 2026, surveillance systems are no longer static. IP video systems benefit from:
- Proactive health monitoring
- Remote diagnostics
- Software updates
- Ongoing optimization
Facilities managers who treat video as living infrastructure, rather than a one-time install, see better reliability and longer system life.
About Vulcan Security Systems
Vulcan Security Systems provides IP video surveillance solutions for Alabama businesses and commercial property owners.
We help facilities managers with:
- Defining the scope of security and surveillance needs
- Designing right-sized systems for operational goals
- New installations, upgrades, and retrofits
- Remote monitoring & proactive service contracts
If you’re evaluating a surveillance system for your facility or questioning whether your current system is delivering real value, contact Vulcan Security Systems for a consultation.
