National
Conclusion
the development of the Security, Safety & Integrity (SSI) ModelTM. The SSI ModelTM serves as a master guide for the security planning of major sporting events. It consists of a Framework that covers all eight dimensions of an event life cycle and a Security Concept that addresses the entire suite of security functions that have to be managed during the Preparation- and Operations Phases to ensure a holistic and integrated security plan as illustrated in Figure 1 below.
Figure 1: The SSI ModelTM
This brings us to the other question we hear so often; “Where do we start?” The SSI ModelTM Framework covers all eight dimensions of a major sporting event life cycle, whether one is planning to bid for a major sporting event or has already been awarded the hosting rights. The SSI Model adheres to the following quality standards: • A DYNAMIC and ROBUST model; • HOLISTIC & INTEGRATED; • FLEXIBLE to accommodate unique dynamics; • Based on CUMULATIVE KNOWLEDGE of previous major events; • Can be MANAGED EFFECTIVELY through the life cycle of an event; • To OPTIMISE security plans and operations; • Ensures CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT; • Whilst MINIMISING RISK of re-work and high security COSTS; • Ensuring LEGACY for the Host Nation & Sport Sector.
16 | Australian Security Magazine
Up until now there has been no known overarching model that can be applied by different major sporting events; especially a dynamic one that is based on historic lessons learnt and current research. In the absence of such a model, we still experience major failures in SSI operations as recent as the 2012 London Olympics. One would think that major event security experts would be able to cover all of the requirements of SSI operations by now and ensure that SSI plans are managed effectively. One would also think that the contents of the SSI ModelTM are common sense. Common sense however, is clearly not quite common practice. The SSI ModelTM aims to assist in making common sense a common practice for all major sporting events of the future! Key issues to remember A quality security planning model: • Must be Holistic and Integrated • Should be Dynamic and Flexible • Needs to be based on Cumulative Knowledge • Should Minimise Risk and Cost • Should Optimise Benefits for the event and beyond • Should be Managed Effectively through the event life cycle • Should assist in making Common Sense, a Common Practice! If you would like to learn more on how the SSI Model can assist your event or you would like to discuss other sport safety and security services offered by ICSS Security Operations please don’t hesitate to contact Andrew Cooke, Director Security Operations - International Centre for Sport Security. Email: andrew.cooke@icss.org About the Author Andrew is an internationally experienced Safety and Security Specialist with a career spanning over 25 years with multi-disciplinary sport security, risk management and law enforcement experience. Andrew in his current position leads the safety and security operations for ICSS on a global level. Prior to working at ICSS Andrew was the Head of Security for the Asian Cup 2015 in Australia and has managed and directed the Safety and Security operations for a large number of International Sporting Organisations across the globe. Andrew’s experience is strengthened by his expertise in Operational Management, Crisis and Emergency Management, Hostage Negotiation, Risk and Security Management, Event Security Management, Security Risk and Threat Analysis, Security Site Surveys and Close Personal Protection Operations. He is an effective leader who brings strategic and operational expertise in all facets of major sport safety, security and risk management on a local, national and international level. A highly commercial change agent who is able to shape, influence and inspire strategic thinking and innovation.