Comparing cost, coverage, and reliability. See why many businesses choose a hybrid approach – and how our CCTV + remote monitoring solutions save you money.
Introduction
When securing your business, the two most common options are:
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Hiring a human security guard
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Installing a professional CCTV system
But which one actually gives you better value?
In this post, we’ll compare cost, 24/7 coverage, evidence collection, deterrence, and real-world limitations – then show you a hybrid option that many smart business owners choose.
1. Cost Comparison (Monthly)
| Expense | Security Guard (8-hour shift) | Professional CCTV System |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly wage (approx.) | €15–€30 | €0 (once installed) |
| Monthly cost (one shift) | €2,500–€5,000 | €0–€50 (electricity + cloud storage) |
| Overtime / holiday pay | Yes | No |
| Sick leave / coverage gaps | Yes | No |
| 12-month total | €30,000–€60,000 | One-time install + low monthly fee |
✅ Winner: CCTV – after the first few months, it pays for itself.
2. 24/7 Coverage
Security guard:
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Needs breaks, sleep, days off.
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Two guards for 24/7 coverage doubles the cost (~€60k–€120k/year).
CCTV system:
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Watches every second, no bathroom breaks.
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With motion alerts and remote viewing, you can check from your phone at 2 AM.
✅ Winner: CCTV
3. Evidence & Incident Review
Guard:
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Relies on memory and incident reports (can be subjective).
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No video proof for police or insurance claims.
CCTV:
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Exact timestamped footage.
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Can be shared with law enforcement instantly.
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Helps deny false injury or theft claims.
✅ Winner: CCTV
4. Deterrence – The Human Factor
Guard:
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Visible presence stops many crimes immediately.
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Can intervene in real time (verbally or physically).
CCTV:
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Visible cameras also deter, but can’t physically stop someone.
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Remote speakers (two-way audio) allow you to warn intruders.
✅ Winner: Guard (for immediate intervention) – but cameras still deter strongly.
5. Weaknesses of Each
| Security Guard | CCTV System |
|---|---|
| Can be bribed or distracted | Can’t chase a thief |
| Misses things behind them | Blind spots if poorly placed |
| No recorded proof | Needs power + network |
The Best Solution? Hybrid – Guard + CCTV
Many businesses now use:
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One guard during peak hours (e.g., 8 AM – 4 PM)
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CCTV + remote monitoring the rest of the time
This cuts security costs by 50–70% while keeping 24/7 coverage.
We also offer remote video monitoring – a live operator watches your cameras after hours and calls police if they see a real threat.
Why Choose Us for Your CCTV System?
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✅ 4K cameras with night vision
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✅ Mobile access (iOS / Android)
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✅ AI motion detection (ignores pets, branches)
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✅ Cloud or on-site recording options
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✅ Free site assessment – we find your blind spots
Ready to Compare Costs for Your Business?
Contact us for a free quote – we’ll design a system that fits your budget and coverage needs.
📞 Call us: +353 719162757
📧 Email: info@lumaelectronics.ie
🌐 https://lumaelectronics.ie/contact-luma-electronics-sligo-ireland/
💰 Security guard: €5,000/month.
🎥 Our CCTV: One-time install.
Which saves you more?
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