Regardless of the industry, all companies compile dozens of files on every subject possible. Personnel, customers and internal information is categorized and stored so it can be accessed when necessary. As files age and become obsolete, there’s no reason to store them on-site anymore. Some companies even commit the information to digital formats. When paperwork is ready to be thrown out, it’s time for document shredding. Choosing file shredding can keep businesses out of trouble on several levels.
Sensitive Company Information Protected
Many businesses use proprietary information within their building walls on a constant basis, from engineering specifications to recipe components. If any information is simply thrown in the trash, competitors could easily extract the details and create their own product. Businesses thrive on proprietary information, so any discarded data must be destroyed. Document shredding protects sensitive business information because the paperwork pieces are just too small to put together again for reading. These paper scraps are often recycled anyway, removing any trace of the information from the public.
File Shredding and Customer Safeguarding
Businesses keep extensive records on their customers for payment, warranty and historical reasons. When their files become obsolete for any reason, companies cannot let this information out to the public. Depending on the industry, there might be sensitive purchase information customers don’t want advertised to other people. When a company shreds customer files, future clients are assured they’ll be treated with respect and concern for their privacy. People may even flock to one business alone because of their high regard for customer privacy.
Considering Employee Personnel Files
Personnel files are some of the most sensitive documents in a business’s storage cabinets. These files offer social security numbers, addresses and possible financial information for payroll direct deposit. If employee information was simply discarded, identity theft could arise and affect almost everyone in the building. Businesses must treat their employees with respect as they destroy any paperwork that’s not necessary anymore. The business also protects itself against any lawsuits that may arise out of identity theft. Companies must build relationships with employees to hire the best in the industry.
Hiring a mobile file shredding company is one of the best ways to protect company and customer information. The Houston area, for instance, offers on-site document shredding so companies see the information being destroyed before their eyes. With proper paperwork destruction, no information will fall into the wrong hands.
