Keeping A Watchful Eye

The decision to install security cameras into her 4,500-sq.-ft. salon was not an easy one for Renee Borowy, owner of VIP Nails and Tans in Riverview, Mich., but after four weeks of using the system, this veteran salon owner describes herself as “rejuvenated.” She first considered the idea several months ago after discovering a problem with employee theft of nail products. Since her salon had grown to include 35 employees, it was no longer possible to keep an eye on everything, she acknowledges. The final straw came when a nearby salon was robbed at gunpoint. “I realized that security cameras would do more than just deter theft, they would provide protection for staff members, particularly those with evening hours. Plus it would mean a reduction in my insurance premiums,” says Borowy.

She opened up the Yellow Pages and called four security companies. Each came out to the salon and provided a written price quote. “They were all very similar in price, so I ended up going with a national chain – ADT,” she says. The initial set-up cost of $4,500 covered installation of a number of color cameras – both hidden and in plain view – and all other equipment required, except Borowy’s home computer, which receives the images in real-time via a telephone line. “From a laptop I can watch the salon from anywhere in the world,” she says. She also opted to have the security company monitor the videotapes for a monthly fee. Not only do they look for illegal activities such as shoplifting, they can monitor employee behavior and adherence to company policy, such as dress code.

Since the system has been in place, Borowy reports losses have been eliminated. Plus there are other advantages: an overflowing pedicure tub was caught just in time. The tapes also provide backup in the event of customer disputes or workers comp claims. And staff morale? “The techs are very happy with the system because their personal items had been disappearing too. And they appreciate the extra protection,” she says.