Remember the time when you were devastated by a tragic theft, an act of vandalism, or an unidentified fire?

A few hours later, inquiries began to surface, such as: What exactly happened? How did it happen? When did it happen? 

No longer will you need to wait for an answer to your questions; instead, you’ll receive alerts as soon as a situation arises, allowing you to take immediate action and mitigate any damage.

In this blog post, we will delve in-depth to learn what happens when you combine a Surveillance camera with a security monitoring system to produce high-quality remote video surveillance. And how effectively remote video surveillance protects your construction site, parking lot, cannabis farms, and car dealership businesses, to name a few.

What is remote video surveillance?

In short, it involves strategically placing cameras, which capture live video footage and transmit it over a network. This network can be wired or wireless. If any unusual behavior is detected by the camera’s AI, it will send an alarm to the monitoring center.

Then, security personnel on duty will check it remotely to confirm the alarm via live feed, acting in accordance with standard operating procedure as needed. It could involve calling the police, making a verbal or audio talk-down, or taking any other necessary action.

Security perimeters have been redefined by remote video surveillance, which makes it possible for trained operators to monitor, control, and manage events as they happen.

Live video monitoring system enables instant access to real-time footage for immediate response and intervention.

The solution is “remote” because, unlike with security guards, the surveillance is conducted from a monitoring center by security operators who are not physically present on your property.

Who should use remote video surveillance? 

Anyone who wants to increase security or monitor productivity at a public or private site can use remote video surveillance. Also called remote video monitoring, it allows companies to adhere to compliance rules and industry standards, fostering a safe and reliable environment.

Below are a few industries where modern surveillance systems leverage cutting-edge technology for enhanced monitoring and security.

Construction site security

Video surveillance monitoring services offer professional oversight and round-the-clock protection to ensure the safety of equipment, materials, and workers.

It can be achieved by installing security cameras and alarms at strategic points, such as entry and exit areas, material and equipment storage areas, a perimeter fence, common areas, and high-traffic zones.

It can involve operators at the monitoring center talking to visitors when they arrive at the gate or entrance and access control systems. 

Read this insightful blog post on 3 Video Surveillance Tips for the Best Construction Site Security.

Parking lot security

Parking areas are prime locations for theft, loitering, assaults, and break-ins. Parking lots can benefit greatly from a variety of perimeter security services.

Parking lot owners may benefit from remote gate control, which can validate individuals’ credentials and lock or unlock gates during specified hours to protect customers’ vehicles. 

Employees and customers may also benefit from a surveillance systems that record and capture video, which may be used for later analysis and investigation of car thefts or harassment in the parking lot. 

License plate triggers are a one-of-a-kind technology that alerts the parking lot owners about a suspicious vehicle that might have overstayed or been involved in some theft by maintaining logs at the monitoring hub.

Retailers 

Retail owners deal with problems like employee theft, shoplifting, and inventory management every day. In 2022, external robbery in the United States reached $94.5 billion, according to the NRF’s most recent National Security Survey. 

When compared to on-site security personnel, remote video surveillance can result in significant cost savings. Retailers can use surveillance cameras to conduct audits to reduce shortages and boost sales, safety, and productivity.

By validating customer IDs or ensuring proper product handling, remote surveillance cameras help ensure that employees follow safety regulations.

Car dealerships

By monitoring both the cars and the dealers involved in the buying and selling of the vehicles, remote video surveillance can be beneficial for auto dealers.

The camera can offer the best viewing and improve detection capabilities by being placed on the edge of the secured perimeter. This makes it possible to cover a larger area and reduce blind spots, improving the surveillance of the vehicles.

For a comprehensive understanding of remote video surveillance for automotive dealerships, delve into our detailed guide, “Car Dealership Security: The Complete Guide on Better Video Surveillance.” Gain valuable insights and expert advice on improving security measures in the automotive industry.

Cannabis Farms

Cannabis remote video monitoring is a safety measure that entails placing security cameras and other equipment on a cannabis business’s property to watch over and safeguard vulnerable areas. 

It shields companies from internal and external theft and ensures that they abide by local and national laws. In Canada, using remote video surveillance allows compliance with Health Canada’s Regulations.

These surveillance systems are interconnected with a security operations center, where trained personnel monitor the live video feed and respond to any suspicious cannabis-related activity. 

Learn more on the benefits of remote video surveillance for the cannabis industry in this insightful blog, “Cannabis Remote Video Monitoring: Top 15 Proven Security Reasons Why You Need It.”

Condos

Condo owners are primarily under pressure to uphold a duty to keep neighborhood residents safe. A condo’s fire safety systems, access control and security, outdoor lighting, parking security, and backup generators can all be remotely monitored to ensure safety.

Owners of condos are required to improve public safety from fire, loitering, pool disorder, vandalism, regrouping of people, or any suspicious activity.

All of these events can be monitored via a “virtual guard tour.” An operator logs in to check a number of cameras in a specific order at predetermined times, much like a physical guard would.

Remote concierge and remote gate control solutions increase security by confirming visitors’ identities and granting access to the facility only to authorized users.

Truck yards

The best real-time monitoring center offers truck yard security solutions that are implemented in real-time to reduce cargo theft and enhance access control. Strong AI is used in remote video monitoring systems to identify unusual activity and create a secure link between cameras and the security operation center. 

Identifying unusual activity through advanced AI, receiving live video of the event, and responding according to a predetermined SOP are the three stages of intervention in remote video monitoring. 

Remote gate control allows monitoring access to the truck yard, verifying credentials, and permitting entry only to authorized personnel. 

For frequent visitors, access management credentials like PINs or QR codes can provide simple and secure access without involving the security operation center.

Major public events

Installing safe city cameras is a practice that the government and owners of housing societies frequently use to protect civilians. Remote video surveillance safeguards critical infrastructure, public spaces, and sensitive areas.

Using remote concierge and gate control services enables cities to improve access control and assist citizens who need assistance or information.

Large-scale public events like concerts, government processions, and others can indeed significantly benefit from remote gate control.

It combines one-way video and two-way audio, allowing security staff to authorize entry to specific locations while blocking unauthorized access. 

The benefits of remote video surveillance

Remote video surveillance offers numerous benefits.

• The operators can immediately intervene with a voice talk-down or call the police and deal with the situation once the intruder is detected via a real-time monitoring system, saving valuable time.

• It enables simple integration with current cameras and features tailored to their requirements.

• Remote monitoring allows alarms to be checked first by a remote operator so the police is not called or the owner bothered every time there is an alarm. It is first verified by an operator who deals with it depending on the situation.

• It is a more cost-effective alternative to security guards.

• It offers proactive security and real-time monitoring, ensuring constant protection around-the-clock, 365 days a year. 

• Furthermore, the detection and prevention of crime are greatly aided by remote video surveillance. Furthermore, the remote video recording is substantial visual evidence for investigations and helps law enforcement locate and apprehend criminals.

• Monitoring numerous locations from a single hub is also made possible by the ease with which surveillance coverage can be expanded, improving operational efficiency.

• Remote video surveillance also offers the advantage of reducing insurance premiums. Insurers often offer discounts to businesses that have implemented robust security measures, including remote surveillance systems.

• Additionally, remote video surveillance enables remote management, allowing quick responses and troubleshooting. This feature saves time and resources by addressing issues promptly and efficiently without needing physical presence on-site.

How AI is transforming remote video surveillance

Open platforms

To make an informed decision for your business, look into the option of open platform-based services.

Internet of things(IOT)

The way that sites are monitored for safety and security has changed as a result of the development of remote video surveillance systems. To easily manage SIP Intercom & Paging, the best security monitoring center offers cloud PBX.

It offers uptime monitoring for the best infrastructure monitoring so that you can always be aware of the current state of your systems, network, applications, and devices.

Types of video monitoring services with innovative features 

Remote video surveillance offers next-level security with intelligent features such as:

Virtual tour via video analytics

Analytics and Virtual Tour work together to improve security and safety. Like an on-site guard, a remote operator logs in at a predetermined time or a series of predetermined times to check several camera views and look for anything amiss. For example, a person on the ground, smoke, floods, loitering, etc.

Alarm video verification

It focuses on early detection and verification of alarms. Alarm Video verification ties your security camera system to the monitoring center. The steps involved in video verification are described below:

Step 1: The alarm is set off by a specific event such as glass break, door contact, water on the floor, etc.  

Step 2: The alarm monitoring center is notified of the triggered alarm.

Step 3: An operator at the remote video monitoring center opens the cameras and verifies what is happening on the business’s premises.

Step 4: The operator does a vocal intervention. In most cases, the crime is prevented and the intruder leaves.

Step 5: If the vocal intervention turns out unsuccessful, the authorities are readily notified, and the police is dispatched to the site in priority as a “crime in progress” event.

Cloud video analytics 

It is a magnificent solution that provides remote live monitoring, utilizes AI, and enables operators to detect and respond to emerging threats. Cloud Video Analytics usually includes compatibility with almost any camera no matter the model, brand, or year of manufacturing.

Among others, it offers plate recognition, loitering detection, crowd management on top of minimizing false negatives. It provides many benefits, such as:

• Cloud video analytics eliminates the need for expensive hardware and infrastructure upgrades.
• Automated worldwide updates reduce the need for manual software updates and maintenance by IT staff.
• Cloud-based analytics providers offer more robust algorithms that result in accurate insights and significantly reduce false alarms.

Remote concierge

Remote concierge service gives remote monitoring centers access control privileges so they can remotely open gates or doors to a facility. 

Remote concierge step-by-step

When necessary, the operator can interact with the visitor after receiving live video monitoring and pertinent data.

The procedure entails event-to-action triggers, identity verification, adhering to established protocols, adding notes, concluding cases, and saving audit trails. 

This service is useful for locations with unattended visitor access, like door or gate entrances. It is applicable to a number of sectors, including transportation, apartments, office buildings, and auto dealerships.

Uptime monitoring

Uptime monitoring is the monitoring of all devices, applications, network, and infrastructures of a business to make sure everything goes smoothly.

As soon as an anomaly is detected in the system, a notice is sent to the monitoring center and to the client so they can know about it swiftly and remedy it. For example, it will automatically trigger an alarm if the network is down.

Components of a Remote Video Surveillance System

Cameras:

Two factors should be considered when installing cameras: the type of camera and how strategically it is placed. Choose a camera that best meets your needs. You can seek advice from a specialist in this regard, such as your security installer.

There are many cameras available, including conventional cameras, which are frequently suggested. However, if your site is large and lacks sufficient lighting, you may need to buy thermal cameras. Important places for cameras are usually entrances and exits, around the perimeter, and storage areas.

Central hub: 

The Central Hub is where security operators work, review alarms, carry out voice talk-down, and safeguard your company by adhering to appropriate SOPs. The central hub is responsible for processing, analyzing, and storing the data received from the site sensors and cameras.

Software for data analytics: 

This software examines the information gathered by the sensors and cameras and offers insights that may help decision-making regarding perimeter security, operational efficiency, and employee safety, among others.

Web Portal:

Project managers can view the processed data on a dashboard or control panel in a user-friendly format and keep track of their business operations in real time.

Notification and alert system:

The internet-based surveillance can send alerts and notifications to relevant parties if any issues or anomalies are detected, enabling them to take prompt action.

Cloud-based platform: 

Cloud-based platforms store and manage large amounts of data generated by remote monitoring systems. It enables easy access to data and facilitates collaboration among project teams.

Network Infrastructure:

A reliable communication network is required to transmit the data captured by the sensors and cameras to a central hub. It includes switches, routers, cabling, and network protocols. A reliable network infrastructure ensures smooth video streaming and remote access to the surveillance system.

Video Storage:

You need a dependable storage option because remote video surveillance generates a lot of data. Consider variables like backup plans, storage capacity, and redundancy to ensure the highest quality surveillance.

The best storage option is cloud-based storage because it ensures that the video content is accurately archived and always accessible when needed.

Remote video monitoring system: 

You should implement the best remote video monitoring and alerting system to monitor the video feeds effectively. Features like motion detection, intrusion detection, facial recognition, or license plate recognition empower you to monitor and protect your assets proactively.

Alerts can be sent to security personnel or integrated with other security systems for an immediate response to potential incidents.

Is a remote video surveillance system expensive?

A remote video monitoring service is less expensive than hiring on-site security personnel.

When the security guard’s salary is a recurring expenditure, most of the expenses of a real-time monitoring system are once. With the benefits of remote video monitoring 24/7 in a centralized facility with the combo of technology and human intelligence, these expenditures are worth it.

The costs associated with a remote video surveillance system are briefly described in the table below:

Explore our blog post “How Much Remote Video Monitoring Services Cost in 2023?” for insights on pricing.

How does remote video surveillance work?

Camera installation and positioning

• Types of cameras used:

In remote video surveillance, a variety of cameras, including fixed, PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom), and dome cameras, can be used. While PTZ cameras can be remotely controlled to pan, tilt, and zoom, fixed cameras offer a predetermined field of view. Dome cameras offer discreet surveillance with a wide-angle perspective.

• Strategic camera placement:

Proper camera placement is crucial to capture the desired areas. In order to strategically position cameras, it is important to take into account things like coverage needs, potential blind spots, lighting conditions, and the type of camera being used. Broad surveillance coverage can be attained by carefully positioning cameras.

Network setup and connectivity

Wired vs. wireless networks:

Remote camera monitoring requires a network infrastructure to transmit video data. It can be done using either wired or wireless networks. Wired networks provide a stable and reliable connection, while wireless video surveillance offers more flexibility in camera placement.

The decision is influenced by elements like the distance between the cameras and the monitoring location as well as any potential obstacles.

Bandwidth requirements:

For  video surveillance monitoring systems, bandwidth is a key factor. The video data generated by cameras must be transmitted over the network to the monitoring location. More bandwidth is needed for live streaming and high-resolution cameras.

To prevent congestion or a decline in video quality, it is crucial to make sure the network infrastructure can handle the bandwidth.

Video management and storage

Importance of video management software:

Remote camera surveillance requires the use of video management software (VMS). It enables users to choose camera settings, view live video feeds, manage cameras, and access recorded video.

VMS offers a centralized location for efficiently organizing and managing the surveillance system.

Storage options (local vs. cloud-based):

Video footage that has been recorded needs to be kept for later review and analysis. Local storage devices like Network Video Recorders (NVRs) or Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) can be used with remote video surveillance systems.

In contrast, cloud-based storage options are gaining popularity as they offer scalability, accessibility, and redundancy.

Remote access and monitoring

Mobile apps and web portals:

Remote video surveillance systems enable users to access and monitor video feeds remotely. Smartphones, tablets, and computers can easily access recorded video, view live video streams, and control the surveillance system thanks to mobile applications and web interfaces. 

Real-time monitoring and alerts:

Users can receive alerts or notifications based on events, such as motion detection or tampering. Real-time alerts allow users to respond promptly to potential security threats or incidents.

Integration with other security systems

Alarm systems:

Remote video surveillance systems can be integrated with alarm systems. When an alarm is triggered, the surveillance system can automatically focus on the corresponding camera, visually confirming the event. This integration enhances the effectiveness of both the surveillance and alarm systems.

Access control systems:

Integration with access control systems allows remote video surveillance to be synchronized with access control events. 

Video surveillance tips for designing and implementing your remote video monitoring system:

To maximize the effectiveness of remote video surveillance, keep in mind the following points:

Pick the best cameras:

Understanding the camera’s purpose and the precise surveillance needs of your location is the first step. Things to consider include high resolution, important areas to secure, low-light capabilities, and weather resistance for to obtain clear video footage. 

In fact, if you work in the construction industry, you should read Your Ultimate Guide on How to Choose the Best Construction Site Security Cameras.

Optimize camera placement: 

With careful examination, choose strategic points for cameras, such as critical areas, and entry and exit points. Verify that the surveillance coverage does not have any blind spots. Test camera angles, the lighting, potential obstacles, and the camera’s field of view. 

Establish a secure network:

Implement robust network security with strong passwords to protect your remote video surveillance system from unauthorized access.

Implement motion detection and alerts: 

Enable motion detection on your cameras and configure them to send alerts when motion is detected. This can help you focus on critical events and reduce the time spent reviewing non-essential footage to avoid false alarms.

Utilize video analytics: 

Explore the use of video analytics software to enhance the capabilities of your remote video surveillance system. Video analytics can provide features like object detection, people counting, and license plate recognition, which can be valuable for improving security and operational efficiency.

Backup and storage: 

Implement a robust backup and storage solution for your video footage. Regularly back up the recorded video data to prevent loss or corruption. Consider using an offsite monitoring and surveillance system or cloud storage options to ensure data redundancy and accessibility.

Stay informed with remote monitoring:

Use mobile applications or remote viewing software to monitor live feeds and receive alerts on your devices. Act promptly when necessary and collaborate with appropriate authorities if an incident occurs.

Be careful when choosing:

Most manufacturers will advertise that they offer products built on open platforms and in practice, hardware can be integrated with just one particular piece of software and are not real open platforms. Seeking the advice of a security installer is recommended here.

Remote video surveillance vs. security guards

Remote video surveillance has many advantages for commercial locations because of full access to tech support. For a one-time installation fee as well as some monthly recurring fees for this service, you can take advantage of dependable 24-hour monitoring with real-time surveillance that enables highly skilled operators to act right away. 

In the long run, remote video surveillance is more economical, especially when monitoring multiple locations. 

A security guard can be prone to human error, such as dozing off, taking a day off, or arriving late, making surveillance susceptible for hours. Job satisfaction level, loyalty, and issues with HR may also impact security guards’ performance.

If the site is large, it is not easy for an individual guard to respond quickly to threats. Indeed, on-site guards cannot be everywhere at once whereas remote operators have access to all cameras in the blink of an eye.

The technological developments in security monitoring systems will likely slow the employment of security guards.

While considering the size of the area to be monitored and the level of security needed, our experts have researched the following factors to compare remote video surveillance with security guards:

Discover remote video monitoring in 2023 with our complete guide: “Beginner’s Guide to Remote Video Monitoring.”

Ready to take the next step with this solution? Explore our helpful blog on the “Top 10 Live Video Monitoring Companies in Canada” and make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is remote video surveillance?

Remote video surveillance  allows trained operators to monitor, control, and manage events as they happen. Live video monitoring enables instant access to real-time footage for immediate response and intervention.

Modern technology makes deploying such a system at scale simple and allows remote video surveillance to be managed through off site monitoring surveillance system.

What is the difference between video surveillance and security camera?

Video surveillance may refer to multiple strategically placed cameras for comprehensive coverage, whereas security cameras may refer to a single camera unit.

Video surveillance cameras may have many advanced video surveillance solution features, such as facial recognition, motion detectors, and analytics, whereas security cameras may be only for recording or live streaming.

What is the difference between CCTV and surveillance cameras?

CCTV stands for ‘closed-circuit television.’ A CCTV system consists of video cameras that transmit their recorded video back to a monitor for real-time viewing. Strong ethernet is used by surveillance cameras to record footage and use it later, if required.

Why is video surveillance necessary?

Video surveillance is crucial to prevent theft, violence, arson, and vandalism on any public or private site. Using video surveillance cameras to improve public safety, produce evidence, and lower insurance premiums qualify as practical use. 

Does a surveillance camera record voice?

Remotely monitored video surveillance ensures constant vigilance and timely intervention when necessary. Currently, audio recognition is a standard feature on surveillance cameras. So you can rest assured that these surveillance videos can be effectively used as evidence.

Are surveillance cameras always on?

Surveillance cameras play a crucial role in deterring and detecting security threats. Some home security remote cameras have motion detectors recording when they spot movement, but others monitor 24/7.

What are the benefits of remote video surveillance?

Remote video surveillance is the talk of the town for the following reasons: 

• Real-time monitoring capabilities in video surveillance systems serve as a proactive deterrent against theft, vandalism, and unauthorized entry.
• Wireless remote cameras eliminate the limitations of traditional wired setups, allowing for greater flexibility in camera placement.
• Through mobile apps and web interfaces, remote video monitoring is convenient and accessible, giving users peace of mind.
• Surveillance solutions seamlessly integrate with already-installed security infrastructure like alarm systems and access control for complete security.
• Remote surveillance cameras with motion detection and facial recognition capabilities improve identification precision. 

What types of businesses or industries commonly use remote video surveillance?

People are becoming more aware of how to protect their investments and property through better video surveillance technology as AI develops. Remote monitoring cameras are integrated to provide effective and efficient surveillance coverage. 

Owners of construction sites, residential sites, shopping centers, automotive dealerships, office buildings, industrial sites, truck yards, condos, and the retail industry have realized how surveillance monitoring services provide continuous oversight and peace of mind for their properties.

Anyone who wants to increase security or monitor productivity at a public or private site can use remote video surveillance.

What is the best remote video surveillance system?

Video surveillance systems provide comprehensive solutions for monitoring and safeguarding your premises. Network video recorders (NVRs) and digital video recorders (DVRs) are the two most popular types. Even though DVRs are more common, NVRs are more compatible with and well-suited for IP camera integrations. 

What Does a Video Surveillance System Cost?

The type of equipment used, the difficulty of the installation, and any additional features all affect the cost of a video surveillance system. It can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, but it only needs to be paid once.

Additionally, you must include a recurring fee for remote live monitoring services paid to the security dealer or directly to the monitoring center. It is still considerably less expensive than hiring a full-time security guard.

Conclusion

At public and private organizations, remote video surveillance enables quick responses to incidents and potential security risks. You can be sure that your space is secure thanks to advanced video surveillance features like remote monitored video surveillance, cloud-hosted access control, remote intercom response, alarm video verification, and infrastructure uptime monitoring.

There is no better alternative to a remote monitoring system for hassle-free, round-the-clock surveillance than Sirix. Since site security is crucial, we provide various solutions to assist businesses in keeping their sites secure.

To learn more about our security solutions, contact us and leave your comments about this topic.