The Label that Never Comes Off

What is the first thing you must do when introducing a new security system for laptops, tablets, cables, musical instruments, etc?

Quite simply the answer to that question is, “tell everyone”.

By which I don’t mean, tell everyone in assembly that you have a new security system, because that of itself could be seen as a challenge to those of a somewhat darker personality.

Rather I mean that as the items which are secured are loaned out to students you give them, and their parents, a note saying that the school has introduced a new tracking system for these items, and that if any item is lost it is important that you should be told at once. You just need make them aware that the items are protected.

Next you need a label on each item before its given out on loan and that raises two questions.

1. How can one label particularly small items of equipment, 
2. How can one ensure that there is no way that anyone can remove the label?

The way to do this is via the use of a label in which the school name is cut out and painted with UV ink so that it will show up should the label be removed.  Plus, by simply letting everyone in the school know that this is the case, you can reduce attempts to remove the label by well over 90%.

For larger items, ID Silver Mark are precision cut stencil labels which are ideal for labelling IT equipment (including iPads, tablets and mobiles) as no one can remove the label without it fragmenting, and even if they get peeled off the UV paint still shows the school name and postcode.

Find out more: ID Mark - ID Silver Mark Labels

For smaller items there is the ID Mini Mark Label which is not only hard to remove, but can also incorporate a serial number and/or barcode thus making it possible to include data in a small space.
Additionally should anybody attempt to remove the asset label or switch the label onto some other equipment, the material will break into small pieces, thus visibly announcing the fact that the label has been interfered with.

Furthermore, because the data is engraved into the surface of the label it cannot be removed with chemicals and cleaning materials.

Mini Mark labels are also ideal for musical instruments as the text won’t come off the label even with the continuous handling of an instrument.  The labels can be provided with white text on black or silver material with black text.

Find out more: Asset Labels - Mini Mark Labels

Dantech also has a full range of ‘traditional’ printed asset marking labels with the schools name, asset number and bar code. Using asset numbering enables the school to maintain a detailed register with an instant view of which equipment is available and where.

View our full asset label range

Alternatively, please call us on 01354 688 488 or email us sales@dantech.co.uk for free and unbiased help and advice.

Lessons for Schools in Asset Tracking

While preparing for the new school year ahead many schools will be reviewing their assets and equipment. Sadly during this process many schools will fine missing or damaged items that will need replacing.

While planning assets and equipment for the coming year it make sense to also look at ways to reduce assets being damaged or lost to minimise the cost of future replacement and maximise what are often very tight budgets.

Clear asset identification

A sensible first step is to look for ways to mark all school assets and equipment to clearly identify them as belonging to the school. Such asset marking helps discourage items from being misplaced or stolen, but only as long as the marking is clear and permanent.

Using quality asset labels or identification plates can be extremely useful in this regard plus they also allow for additional information to be associated with the item.

Tracking and tracing assets

By adding a bar code, sequential numbering or QR code for smaller items schools can also track additional key pieces of information including:

·         Who is responsible for each asset

·         Where each asset should be located

·         Condition and maintenance details

·         Lifetime costs associated with the asset

Holding this additional information helps schools maintain proper chains of responsibility, these help to reduce assets being damaged or misappropriated.

The right asset label in the right place

Just as the assets within a school will range in size and type so a different appropriate asset label or plate will be required to mark each item. Schools should consider using a range of asset labels tailored to the assets and equipment needing to be tracked.

Talking to an expert like Dantech can help schools find the right asset labels and marking products for them. Visit ID Asset Labels or call 01354 688 488 for free advice and support.