CJB Alarms

10/05/2025

Electric Fence Regulations in South Africa – 2025 Update
As South Africa continues to strengthen public safety and tighten regulations around security systems, new rules governing electric fences came into effect on January 1, 2025. Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or a representative of a residential body corporate, it's essential to understand your obligations under these updated regulations. Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including fines, insurance complications, and even criminal liability.
The Department of Labour, in collaboration with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), has revised the Electric Fence Installation Regulations (EFIR) to raise safety standards, prevent accidental injuries, and ensure legal installation practices.
Who Is Affected?
These regulations apply to both residential and commercial properties nationwide. You are subject to the new requirements if:
• You installed an electric fence after October 1, 2012
• You are selling or renting a property with an electric fence
• You are upgrading or modifying an existing system
• You represent a security company managing installations
• You own or manage multi-dwelling properties with shared fencing
Key Requirement: Certificate of Compliance (CoC)
Every electric fence system must be certified by a registered installer, who will issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) confirming adherence to SANS 60335 standards. This certificate must include:
• Installer’s registration number and accreditation
• Installation or last modification date
• Technical specifications
• Compliance with SANS 10222-3
• Maintenance schedule
• Emergency shut-off switch locations
• Battery backup system details
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply can result in:
• Fines up to R40,000
• Court summons in severe cases
• Insurance claim rejections involving electric fence incidents
• Delays or cancellations in property sales
• Legal liability if someone is injured
• Criminal charges for illegal installations or power tampering
• Increased inspections from municipal or insurance authorities
Certification Process: 5 Simple Steps
• Contact a registered electric fence installer
• Schedule a full inspection
• Complete any required repairs or upgrades
• Obtain your Certificate of Compliance
• Store the certificate safely—it may be requested by insurers, buyers, or inspectors.

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03/04/2025

For all your security solutions, including Alarm & CCTV Systems, Electric Fencing, Gate & Garage Door Automation, and Access Control, trust an expert with decades of industry experience. Contact Colin on 0845851623 for reliable service and peace of mind.

03/04/2025

Home security consists of multiple lines of defense, combining physical barriers, surveillance, and alarm systems to deter and prevent unauthorized access. Here’s a structured breakdown:
1. Perimeter Security (First Line of Defense)
• Electric Fencing: A deterrent that delivers a non-lethal shock to intruders.
• Walls & Fencing: Brick walls, steel fences, or palisade fencing to restrict access.
• Automated Gate Motors: Secure entry with remote-controlled or biometric access.
• Outdoor Lighting: Motion-activated lights to illuminate potential threats.
• CCTV Cameras: Surveillance with remote access and recording capabilities.
2. Yard & Outdoor Security (Second Line of Defense)
• Outdoor Beams: Infrared or microwave sensors detect movement before reaching the house.
• Security Patrol Dogs: Trained dogs provide both a physical and psychological deterrent.
• Secure Landscaping: Thorny plants, trimmed hedges to eliminate hiding spots.
3. Entry Point Security (Third Line of Defense)
• Reinforced Doors & Windows: Solid-core doors, burglar bars, and impact-resistant glass.
• High-Security Locks: Deadbolts, anti-pick, and anti-bump locks for doors and gates.
• Video Doorbells: Monitor and communicate with visitors remotely.
• Access Control Systems: Keycards, biometric scanners, or smart locks.
4. Interior Security (Fourth Line of Defense)
• Alarm Systems: Sensors on doors and windows, linked to an armed response.
• Panic Buttons: Quick access to emergency services or security teams.
• Safes & Lockboxes: Fireproof and tamper-resistant safes for valuables.
• Internal Motion Sensors: Monitors movement inside the home when armed.
5. Cybersecurity (Fifth Line of Defense)
• Wi-Fi Security: Strong passwords, WPA3 encryption, and firewall protection.
• Smart Home Security: Ensure cameras, alarms, and IoT devices are secured against hacking.
• Remote Monitoring Apps: Secure access to CCTV, alarms, and smart locks via encrypted apps.
6. Emergency Preparedness (Final Line of Defense)
• Backup Power Systems: UPS or generators to keep security systems running during power cuts.
• Fire & Smoke Detection: Early warning for fire hazards and carbon monoxide leaks.
• Emergency Escape Plan: Safe rooms, secondary exits, and an emergency communication plan.

31/03/2025

A warning to all my clients, friends and family. Dont be scammed.. This is the third time I have received a whatsapp message from people or clients asking me to screenshot an sms and whatsapp it to them or whatsapp the number in the sms text... DONT DO IT, IT IS A SCAM.. you are giving them an opt so they can access one of your accounts, they then change your passwords and you are locked out. If they say its 'Pieter you friend' ask them a question like what is your dogs name or your childs name, or as my example below, what was the last job I did for you.... use your God given wisdom......they are scamming you. Be careful!!!!

28/03/2025

Take control of your safety with reliable home and business security solutions. From electric fencing and alarm systems to CCTV surveillance, staying proactive is essential as crime continues to rise. As a registered electric fence installer and PSIRA-certified professional, I offer expert risk assessments to help secure your property. Contact me on WhatsApp at 084 585 1623 to safeguard your home or business today!

27/03/2025

For all your Electric Fence requirements and/or a Certificate of Compliance for your Electric Fence, kindly contact me via WhatsApp and I will schedule a call.

01/03/2025

The latest crime statistics from the South African Police Service (SAPS) have highlighted several Pretoria suburbs as some of the most dangerous in the country. The report, which tracks serious crimes such as r**e, robbery, sexual assault, and murder, ranks these areas among South Africa’s top 30 high-crime regions.

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu recently released the third-quarter crime statistics for the 2024/2025 financial year, covering the period from October 1 to December 31, 2024. He acknowledged that crime remains a serious issue, particularly in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape.

According to Pretoria Rekord, an average of 75.5 murders and 128 r**es were reported daily nationwide during this period. Several Pretoria suburbs recorded exceptionally high crime rates, with Akasia, Mamelodi East, and Temba emerging as hotspots for serious offenses.

Akasia recorded a high number of cases involving:
Kidnappings.
Contact crimes.
Common assaults.
Robberies with aggravating circumstances.
Property-related crimes.
Motor vehicle theft.
Malicious damage to property.

Mamelodi East saw frequent reports of:
R**e.
Sexual offences and sexual assault.
Common assault.
Robberies with aggravating circumstances.
Gender-based violence (GBV) assaults.
Property-related crimes.
Trio crimes (carjackings, residential, and non-residential robberies).
Motor vehicle theft.
Malicious damage to property.

Crime trends in Temba closely mirrored those of Mamelodi East, with reported cases of:
R**e.
Sexual offences and sexual assault.
Common assault.
House break-ins.
Robberies with aggravating circumstances.
Property-related crimes.
Trio crimes (carjackings and robberies at homes and businesses).
Motor vehicle theft.
Malicious damage to property.

These statistics reinforce the ongoing challenge of crime in South Africa, particularly in key urban areas like Pretoria, where certain suburbs remain hotspots for violent and property-related offenses.

09/02/2025

In South Africa with all the power outages, power faults and loadshedding I have found that the backup batteries in my clients security systems, gate motors, garage door openers ect. just don't last, I have always used good quality lead acid or gel batteries that were guarenteed by the suppliers, who since 2023 no longer give any guarentee. Sometimes I would change a battery in a gate motor or alarm system twice a year because they just dont last. About 18 months ago, I started giving my clients the choice between the standard battery and the Lifepo4 battery (which is three times the price of a standard battery), and have found that all the LifePo4 batteries I have fitted are still in a 100% working condition.
Why LiFePO4 Lithium Batteries Are the Superior Choice for Gate Motors, Cctv Systems and Alarm Systems
When selecting a battery for gate motors, Cctv and alarm systems, LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries stand out as a superior alternative to traditional lead-acid batteries. While their initial cost may be higher, their long lifespan, lightweight design, faster charging, and minimal maintenance requirements make them a more cost-effective and reliable choice in the long run.
Key Advantages of LiFePO4 Batteries Over Lead-Acid:
1. Lifespan
• LiFePO4 batteries can last 3,000–5,000 charge cycles (or more), often 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries, which typically last 300–500 cycles before needing replacement.
• This extended lifespan reduces replacement costs and ensures long-term reliability.
2. Weight & Portability
• Lithium batteries are up to 70% lighter than lead-acid batteries of the same capacity.
• This lightweight design makes installation and handling easier, especially in automated gate motors that require compact, efficient power sources.
3. Discharge Efficiency & Performance
• High discharge efficiency: LiFePO4 batteries maintain a consistent voltage output, ensuring stable power for gate motors that need high current bursts to operate smoothly.
• Deeper discharge capability: They can be safely discharged up to 80–90% of their capacity, whereas lead-acid batteries degrade quickly if discharged below 50%.
4. Maintenance Requirements
• LiFePO4 batteries are virtually maintenance-free.
• No risk of acid spills, corrosion, or gas emissions, making them safer for home security applications.
5. Self-Discharge & Standby Efficiency
• LiFePO4 batteries have a very low self-discharge rate of around 2-3% per month, compared to lead-acid batteries, which lose 10-15% per month when idle.
• This ensures that alarm systems and gate motors remain operational even after extended periods of inactivity.
Considerations When Choosing a LiFePO4 Battery for Gate Motors, Cctv System & Alarm Systems
1. Capacity & Voltage Compatibility
• Ensure the battery provides sufficient capacity (Ah) and voltage (V) to meet your system’s power demands.
• Common options: 12V or 24V LiFePO4 batteries, depending on the Motor, Cctv or Alarm requirements.
2. Battery Management System (BMS)
• A built-in BMS is essential to protect against overcharging, over-discharging, short circuits, and extreme temperatures.
• This extends the battery’s lifespan and ensures safe, efficient operation.
3. Charger & System Compatibility
• Check that your existing charger supports LiFePO4 charging profiles, as using an incompatible charger may damage the battery or reduce performance.
• Some LiFePO4 batteries come with built-in smart charging technology for added convenience. If they don't small modifications can be made to compensate.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to a LiFePO4 battery for gate motors, Cctv systems and alarm systems is a smart investment that enhances performance, reliability, and cost-efficiency. Despite a higher upfront cost, their longer lifespan, minimal maintenance, and superior power efficiency make them the best choice for uninterrupted security and automation.
You are more than welcome to contact me for any such upgrades to you existing systems.
Whatsapp Colin on 0845851623.

04/02/2025

Home CCTV Surveillance in South Africa: What You Need to Know.
In South Africa, the law permits homeowners to use CCTV cameras for surveillance. However, out of respect for your neighbors, it is important to use them responsibly and avoid infringing on others' privacy.
Privacy and Legal Considerations:
The Constitution of South Africa grants a broad right to privacy. While installing home CCTV cameras is not illegal, issues may arise if surveillance extends beyond your property and infringes on someone else’s rights.
What Does the Law Say?
The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) 4 of 2013 regulates the processing of personal information but does not apply to purely household or personal activities. However, common law may offer protection in cases where CCTV surveillance:
• Is used for voyeuristic or criminal purposes.
• Creates a nuisance or prevents someone from fully enjoying their property.
• Monitors areas where privacy is expected, such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
• Stems from a neighborhood dispute involving harassment, where a court order may require the removal of cameras.
How to Use CCTV Responsibly
To avoid privacy disputes with your neighbors, consider these best practices:
• Respect Privacy: Ensure your cameras do not capture your neighbor’s yard, driveway, or private areas.
• Thoughtful Placement: Position cameras to focus on your own property and inform neighbors if necessary.
• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Do not aim cameras at places where privacy is expected, such as windows or bathrooms.
• Use Signage: If your cameras monitor public areas, consider placing signs to inform people of surveillance.
This information serves as a general guide and should not be interpreted as legal advice. If you have specific concerns about CCTV use and privacy, consider consulting a legal professional.

30/01/2025

The average price of electric fencing in South Africa is approximately R250 per meter, with most installations ranging between R200 and R300 per meter, including installation. However, the final cost depends on various factors, such as the number of strands, fence height, terrain, installation complexity, and material quality. Some installers advertise rates as low as R115 per meter, but achieving this price likely means using the cheapest materials and installing a simple, straight fence with minimal lines. As soon as a fence requires adjustments, such as stepping due to height changes or additional wall-top brackets for pillars, the price increases.
Other factors that affect pricing include:
• The length of HT cable needed from the energizer to the fence
• The type of energizer used and whether it requires an outdoor enclosure
• Optional features like a keypad or WiFi module
• The number of earth spikes required
• The need for a lightning diverter
• The number of gates, each sliding gate requires a gate switch
• Pedestrian gates and the underground conduit required for HT cables
• Additional security features like line loops
• The number of lines on the fence (6, 8, 10, etc.)
• The material of the wall-top brackets (round bar, flat bar, or square tubing)
• Compliance with regulations, including the requirement for a Certificate of Compliance (COC)
Every electric fence installation is unique, making it impossible to set a fixed per-meter rate like R100, R150, or R250. The final price depends on the customer's requirements, the materials used, and the site conditions, whether it's brick walls, palisade fencing, or a free-standing electric fence.
Certain sites add even more complexity. For example, in areas with rocky ground, simply digging a hole for a post or driving in a Y-standard isn’t possible. Additionally, many installers cut corners to lower costs, ignoring important regulations. While this might reduce the initial expense, it can lead to compliance issues later, forcing you to spend more to bring the fence up to standard.
When requesting quotes, customers should consider all these factors, rather than just focusing on the per-meter rate.

03/01/2025

I am self employed and one thing I have come to realise over the years is that people dont value the years of experience or knowledge I have in my line of work. I stay up to date with the newest technologies as they are released and spend hours testing and experimenting with them, if there is training on them, I attend it. I would quote a client and hear that I am expensive. So I desided to climb on Google and see how my pricing compares. Alarm systems, IP cameras, Gate motors, Electric fencing, Garage door automation, Cctv ect cost X amount of money and I cannot do anything about what the products cost, as a business and an Installer I do get trade prices and I do have a low markup retail price, sometimes lower than the recomendered retail price of the supplier. One thing you should understand as an example, you could ask me for a price on a Cctv camera, I could sell you a camera for R220 or R1200 depending on the functions of the camera. Same example with an IP camera, I could give you one for R900 or for R6000, depending on the functions, what do you need it to do.
When it comes to labour charges I found I was under the going rate or at the lower end of the price range. According to Google, labour charges to install a gate motor, a garage door opener, an IP Cameras, an Electric fence, an Alarm systems, see what Google says in the screenshots attached. Even my hourly rate if its a repair ect is less than the going rate.....

21/12/2024