Security, training, layout, and cash handling and safely transporting money procedures can prevent the risk of robbery or armed robbery at businesses or store premises.
Robberies can be planned or unplanned
The majority of armed robberies are not thoroughly planned, and a large number are drug or alcohol related. This makes it a potentially dangerous situation.
In a planned robbery the robber sometimes goes to great lengths to prepare and looks over the premises extensively before the event.
Start planning business security now
Do not wait until a robbery has occurred to update your security procedures and systems:
- Improve the safety of both your staff and your customers by adopting a security plan.
- The Crime Prevention Officer at your local police station can give you advice to suit your business security needs.
Layout of the premises
An open, uncluttered environment providing a clear, well-lit view of the sales area from outside is a deterrent to armed robbers.
Strong interior lighting used with an open glass shopfront can make an offender highly visible and increase their chances of being identified.
Layouts that can prevent robberies
Crime prevention advice for business or shop premises:
- secure entrances and windows with good quality locks, solid doors and window bars
- make sure all areas are well lit
- use counters to maximise distance between the customer and staff
- try to have more than one staff member on duty
- keep curtains, posters and advertising material to a minimum
- use mirrors to allow staff to monitor obscured floor space.
Layouts that may encourage robberies
Business premises and store layouts to avoid:
- allow customers access behind the counter and into staff-only areas
- position the cash register near the front door.
Security equipment
Specific equipment may significantly improve your security.
For example:
- closed circuit television (CCTV)
- monitored alarms
- sensors or alarms alert staff that customers are entering or leaving the premises
- electronic doors
- signs or stickers to clearly show that security equipment is in use
Staff training advice
All staff should be:
- trained in hold-up procedures
- shown how to activate and control security equipment
- asked to account for and return all keys.
Cash handling procedures
Set processes for handling money and store takings can limit the opportunity for robberies or armed robberies.
Cash handling procedures that limit robberies
Cash handling processes that can reduce the risk of robbery at your business:
- limit cash kept on the premises and in the till and publicise this fact
- transfer excess cash to a secure place
- install a safe which is fitted with a post-feed, time delay and dye bomb device
- keep cash registers out of sight and away from the front door
Cash handling procedures that may encourage robberies
Cash handling processes that can increase the risk of robbery at your business:
- leave cash drawers open longer than necessary
- discuss cash takings with others
- count cash in front of customers or let them see your cash handling methods
Banking and money transportation
Business banking or money transportation processes for businesses may increase the chance for a robbery.
Money processes that can discourage robberies
Banking and money transportation processes that can reduce the risk of robbery:
- be observant and pay attention to people hanging around
- make the trip with a companion, if possible
- keep entries and exits clear of obstructions
- consider carrying personal audible alarms and mobile phones when doing the banking
- report suspicious activities and people to police immediately on Triple Zero 000
Money processes that may encourage robberies
Banking and money transportation processes that can increase the risk of robbery:
- repeat strict routines with set times for transporting cash to the bank
- use staff uniforms or badges that identify your business when transporting money
- carry cash in a bag that identifies the business or bags that identify the bank
If you have been a victim of an armed robbery
During an armed robbery the overall aim should be to ensure the offender leaves the premises as soon as possible, without injuring or harming anyone.
Learn more about how to respond to a robbery or armed robbery.
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