With machinery theft, fuel crime and equipment losses continuing to cost the rural sector thousands of pounds every year, security specialist DeterTech believes a layered approach to protection is becoming increasingly important.
Speaking at the Royal Highland Show, Rob Prior, risk manager with DeterTech, outlined how the company is combining remote monitoring, forensic marking technology and risk assessments to help protect valuable assets.
“We’re a one-stop shop for all security solutions,” he said.
At the heart of the company’s offering are battery-powered PID 360 monitoring units, which provide 360-degree coverage and are linked directly to DeterTech’s monitoring centre in Prestwick.
“Any activation goes back to our ARC in Prestwick,” said Mr Prior. “Within 40 seconds our monitors will identify whether it’s a legitimate person on site and then follow an escalation process.”
Depending on the circumstances, incidents can be directed to police, landowners or contracted security providers.
The units can be complemented by Sentinel Towers, which use solar or mains power and provide enhanced video surveillance across larger areas.
For higher-quality evidence gathering, DeterTech deploys Recon cameras, which can be concealed around farms and yards.
“We’ll attend site, carry out a risk assessment and look at deploying additional cameras,” said Prior. “If there is a criminal investigation, we’ll support that investigation and provide an evidence pack to the police.”
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Alongside surveillance systems, the company continues to expand the use of SmartTrace forensic marking technology.
The system applies a unique forensic code to tools, machinery and equipment, allowing police to identify recovered property and return it to its rightful owner.
“If we can identify it, it’s had a 100% prosecution success rate every time it’s gone to court,” said Mr Prior.
The technology is now being used across a wide range of agricultural applications, including machinery, ATVs, fuel security and livestock protection.
Fuel theft remains a growing concern on many sites, with DeterTech combining hidden cameras and forensic marking products such as SmartGrease around fuel tanks and access points.
“We’re putting solutions around fuel caps just to give that layered protection,” he said.
The company also works alongside insurers and industry partners to reduce risk and potentially lower premiums.
“In partnership with the NFU Mutual, farmers can receive discounts on insurance when approved tracking and security systems are installed,” said Mr Prior. “Some can see savings of up to 25%.”
He believes the biggest advantage for farmers is peace of mind.
“Do they really want to be monitoring cameras 24/7?” he said. “It’s good to have that monitoring capability that can take that burden away and give peace of mind.”
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