Z goes hi-tech in bid to deter thieves

SECURE: Michael Young ( left) and Paul O'Shea of Focus Digital Security Solutions install state-of-the-art security at Z Masterton yesterday. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

A new string to its crime fighting bow is being installed at Z Energy Masterton with the service station rolling out the latest equipment in its crime-fighting arsenal.

Z is installing high definition, highly visible CCTV equipment to deter would-be robbers as part of an $8 million nationwide programme.

The company's General Manager Retail Mark Forsyth said the rollout is a major line in its defence against robberies, and is one of the biggest investments Z will make at existing sites during the next couple of years.

"Robberies don't cost us a lot from a pure financial perspective because we keep virtually no cash on site, but every robbery is one too many when we consider the stress and potential physical or psychological harm to staff and customers," Mr Forsyth said.

Z already has security cameras across all of its sites but the improved CCTV systems will be a major deterrent for criminals. About 13 digital, high definition cameras will film the forecourt, pumps, entrance and inside of each site, including Masterton, and footage will be instantly displayed on in-store big screens.

Mr Forsyth said a would-be offender won't be able to approach Z Masterton without being picked up on at least one camera.

"Everyone entering the site will see themselves on the big screen as a reminder that it's a safe site," he said. "We reckon that sends a pretty powerful message to our staff, customers and any would-be criminals."

"The big screen footage will be a highly visible deterrent and the quality of the footage is what you'd expect from a modern high definition TV. If anyone thinks they can rob any Z service station with this technology, their chances of going unrecognised when the image is released will be pretty close to zero."

The CCTV rollout is the third step in a triple-whammy for any would-be robbers setting their sights on Z service stations - Z's network recently installed maximum security intelligent safes that take in and instantly lock away cash like an automatic teller machine, and are trialling an invisible liquid DNA spray that enables robbers to be tagged as they leave the scene.

Z believes the investment is paying off. Robberies across Z's service station network have dropped from 34 in 2005 (an average of one a fortnight) to five this year.