Why Is Storing Company Documents So Important?

As a 16 year old is charged in connection with a major fire which has destroyed documents; a Cheshire businessman outlines the importance of secure storage.

The arrest of a 16-year-old man charged in connection with a major fire at a storage building highlights the importance of storing business documents securely.

That is the call from Tom Gilruth, Managing Director of Topwood, a Cheshire secure storage and shredding company.

He said: "Arson is a major threat to businesses that need to store valuable paperwork and or documents."

The fire, which engulfed and destroyed the complete building in Burnt island, Fife recently saw up to 35 firefighters tackle the blaze.Numerous unique historical documents and artefacts perished in the blaze.

Following information from the public, and an investigation by Fife Division of Police Scotland, a 16-year-old man was taken in to custody and charged in connection with the alleged incident.

A number of current and historical documents were incinerated in the blaze along with other archived paperwork.

Tom Gilruth believes employing a company like Topwood, based in Malpas, would have safeguarded the material.

Topwood's document storage facilities manage tons of valuable files and data for many public sector organisations and blue chip companies.

Said Tom: "We have a secure site to ensure that the risk of arson is minimised and that our customers' information is retained in perfect condition."

Tom believes organisations that need to store their documents should use premises that have:
- 24hr manned security
- Secure perimeter fencing with strict access control systems
- CCTV with movement detectors and night vision sights
- Buildings/facilities constructed of non combustible material

He also advises that waste wood and combustible material should be left in wheelie bins on the premises.

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