CASH CARRYING

The movement of cash from one place to another provides an opportunity for criminals and this can expose the carriers to risk of attack and injury. In order to minimise the risks, consider the following points:

> Is the use of cash essential or can some other form of payments be substituted? Employees should be persuaded to accept salary payments by cheque or be paid directly into a bank account.

> If the use of cash is essential, does it need to be transported at all? Are there any other ways in which the cash can be passed on?

> If cash has to be transported, what methods of transportation will provide the greatest protection and the least risk? Should a specialist cash carrying company be given this task or can it be left to employees with little or no training or experience in this field and often without specialised cash carrying equipment?

Remember, cash is the most sought after commodity and criminals will go to great lengths, and take great risks to steal it. However, where cash is vital and when company employees are considered suitable for carrying out the banking of takings or collection of wages, the following precautions should be taken:

> Send the right people, do not send elderly, immature or new employees. Send at least two people. Some insurance companies require as many as four people to accompany large amounts of cash. Check your insurance policy terms and conditions.

> Do not be predictable, vary the time as much as possible. Vary the route of the journey. Keep a potential attacker guessing, but remember the consistent points of your journey are the start and finish so these require extra vigilance.

> Use a vehicle wherever possible. However, hired taxis and public transport should not be used for the transport of cash or valuables. Vary the vehicle as often as possible but ensure it is reliable and well maintained.

> Use special cash carrying equipment. There are several devices that can raise the alarm or spoil the cash contents with a chemical marking agent should the carrier be attacked. With bags that dye the contents, paper money should not be in plastic bags, as the dye cannot get to it.

> Strong consideration should be given to a security company specialising in cash carrying, making deliveries and collections. The cost can often be reduced by forming 'cooperatives' with other businesses in your area.

It is essential that reasonable precautions be taken whenever cash is being carried or stored. Employers should be aware of their legal responsibilities towards their employees.

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