Spectrum - RETURN TO NORMALITY?

spectrum THE VOICE OF THE

PROFESSIONAL SECURITY INDUSTRY

AUTUMN 2020

RETURN TO NORMALITY? How the security industry is getting back together post COVID-19

THE HIDDEN WORKFORCE

CASH IS A SAFE CHOICE

BACK TO THE OFFICE?

How industry is working to reset perceptions of the security officer | 8

A new report on why cash must still be used post COVID-19 | 18

What are the risks of remaining working from home? | 28

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH SECURITY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Contents 4. Foreword with Mike Reddington

5. Industry briefing

8. Special Report: The Hidden Workforce

12. A country under COVID - report from members

14. Keeping COVID at bay - our members involvement

16. Security Systems under COVID-19 - TDSi

18. British Security Awards - online for 2020

20. Keeping the Capital covered - STM Group

22. Special Report: Cash is a SAFE Choice

26. Return to form: Interview with Simon Banks

28. A blended approach - auditing with NSI

30. On the spot: Interview with Tom Ford

32. Special Report: Back to the office?

38. Giant Steps: Skills for Security march on

41. Magenta Security Services: 25 years of service

Spectrum is produced in-house by the British Security Industry Association.

Andrew Cooper Katherine Ingram Design: BSIA Communications Editor:

Assistant Editor:

Contributors: James Moore, IFSEC Global, Don Robins, Printwaste Recycling & Shredding, David Scott, Skills for Security, Abbey Petkar, Magenta Security Services, Sarah Staff, SaferCash, Gareth Skinner, G4S, Richard Jenkins, NSI, Mark Wall, Webeye, Michele Morgan, ADT, Gideon Reichental, Clearway Services, Tom Ford, BSIA, Naz Dossa, PeopleSafe, Carl Meason, Fenix Monitoring, John Davies, TDSi, STM Group

British Security Industry Association Anbrian House, 1 The Tything, Worcester, WR1 1HD Press Office: 32 Bedford Row, London, WC1R 4HE

spectrum

Autumn 2020

Since our last edition of Spectrum, published in the summer of 2019, the Association has been incredibly active in its continued validation of its strapline, ‘the voice of the professional security industry.’

Members old and new will have seen significant changes within the association, from our brand refresh and new website, both launched in January 20, to the recruitment of new members of staff to strengthen our support and reach. We have also created new member services, such as our BSIA Broadcasts, which are held every month on a subject relevant to the industry and our new commercial newsletter, BSIA Product, which promotes the new projects and initiatives our members have launched.

It goes without saying that the impact of COVID-19 has been a major influence in our work in representing our members this year, and in March we lobbied the government to gain key worker recognition and status for security officers services members and all those operating in the security sector who provide service and support for critical services. With the assistance of the Security Industry Authority, NSI and SSAIB, we were able to obtain the clarification our sector needed to enable them to continue to operate through these unprecedented times. We have also worked on raising awareness of the importance of cash as a safe choice, during and beyond lockdown, for our cash in transit members, who have been hugely impacted by events of the last six months as the use of card payments increase and cash use declines. In September we continued our work with the telecoms industry in preparing installers on the switch to ALL-IP by 2025, promoting the urgency of being prepared as the transition begins in earnest. In the same month the Association saw the fruits of its lobbying on behalf of our Asset Property Marking members in gaining an extension on licensing of vehicle marking as a new standard is developed, a project that the BSIA will be taking a significant lead on.

C H I E F

E X E C U T I V E ' S

F O R E W O R D

A major focus this year has been working on raising the perception of the security officer in the political and public realm. Our campaign, ‘The Hidden Workforce’, is being driven in partnership with the Security Commonwealth and the Security Institute, and its aim is to highlight the valuable and positive work our industry sector undertakes and how it can assist government, police authorities and the public in creating a safe and secure environment for us all to live and work in. You can read more about these projects and initiatives in this edition of Spectrum, which from October, will be back to its regular quarterly release.

I firmly believe that the work of the BSIA remains as critical as ever, and through collaboration with our members in identifying the key issues and opportunities facing our industry and proactively addressing these we are stronger together. There has never been a more important time for our industry to be addressing the rapid changes that are occurring, and being at the heart of the security industry through the BSIA means it is better to be a member and not just an observer.

It goes without saying that the impact of COVID-19 has been a major factor in our work in representing members this year.

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Mike Reddington Chief Executive British Security Industry Association

Industry

briefing

Perceptions of security officers in the public domain to be reset

Alarm installers urged to 'take action now

The BSIA has joined forces with the Security Institute

Security installers are being urged to take swift action on

and the Security Commonwealth to run an awareness

their alarm signalling estates in advance of the transition

campaign to highlight the essential role that Security

to an all-IP (Internet Protocol) fibre-based voice service

Officers play in public life and to increase respect and

with migration in some areas taking place as early as this

recognition for their capabilities.

autumn.

The campaign will showcase security professionals as a respected,

valued,

professional

service

provider

contributing to and creating a safe and secure environment: critical to protecting people, places, and property – a key worker that is acknowledged and embedded in our daily lives.

Find out more in our special report on pages 8-12.

The BSIA launched a campaign, ‘Take Action Now’ in August to give installers notice of how the telecoms industry is preparing and what they need to do in order to be prepared for the transition. The campaign includes a dedicated testing page on the BSIA website and also a positioning paper on how to mitigate risk and protect your customers.

Find out more on www.bsia.co.uk/digital-voice

Extension of certification withdrawal as new British Standard is developed The BSIA welcomed certification body Thatcham’s extension to the withdrawal of their Whole Vehicle Marking certification to 31 December 2022 to give time for a new British Standard to be introduced as its replacement. The extension was announced after the BSIA lobbied on behalf of its Asset & Property Marking members that the original date of withdrawal of 31 December 2020 gave insufficient time for the industry to find a replacement accreditation, which usually takes 18-24 months.

As a result of the withdrawal of the Thatcham certification, the BSIA, after consulting with the British Standards Institute, will now be developing its existing guidance (Form 121) on asset marking into a British Standard, which will also include guidance found in the Forensic Science Regulator’s Office Code of Practice.

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5

Industry

briefing

New code of practice for installers The BSIA’s Cybersecurity Product Assurance Group (CySPAG), has released a new code of practice for installers responsible for safety and security systems.

Installation of safety and security systems – cybersecurity code of practice, was designed to provide confidence throughout the supply chain promoting secure connection of products and services and delivering client assurance regarding connected solutions. The code of practice will assist the supply chain in its duty of care to other network users, particularly with respect to protecting the integrity of existing cybersecurity countermeasures already in place, or the implementation of such countermeasures in new solutions.

Download your copy from www.bsia.co.uk/cyspag

Security officers recognised for their contribution during COVID-19 at British Security Awards Security officers working on the frontline during COVID19 were recognised with a special Chairman’s Recognition Award at the BSIA’s British Security Awards this summer.

The award was announced by Chairman Simon Banks at the culmination of the celebration of all the national winners, which this year for the first time ever, were delivered online due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The awards, which were streamed live on the BSIA’s

and broadcaster and barrister, Chris Daw QC, who all

YouTube account, featured special guests, Commissioner

paid tribute to the work carried out under extreme

of the Metropolitan Police, Dame Cressida Dick DBE

circumstances by members of the Association and the

QPM, outgoing CEO of the Security Industry Authority,

wider industry, as well as congratulating this year’s

Ian Todd, CEO of the Security Institute, Rick Mounfield

finalists.

Find out who won on pages 18-19.

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Industry

Retailers and local authorities called to treat cash as a ‘safe choice’

briefing

Access control awareness campaign launched to keep your buildings safe The BSIA's Access & Asset Protection section has produced a series of posters for properties using access control to use around their estates to remind staff to 'keep your building safe', including warnings around leaving keys and pass cards and codes on display in insecure areas.

The BSIA launched a report in August calling on retailers in all sectors and local authorities across the United Kingdom to recognise, acknowledge and promote the use of cash as a SAFE choice of payment during and after the COVID-19 crisis.

Download a free poster: www.bsia.co.uk/safe-buildings

The report, Cash is a SAFE Choice, is a compendium of

Report into death rates of security officers published

evidence-based research from organisations such as the British

Retail

Consortium,

the

World

Health

Organisation, Which?, Association of Convenience

Corps

Stores, UK Finance and members of the cash industry.

published a report into the

Produced by the BSIA, it outlines that cash is still a

death rates of security

credible transactional tool as the public return to

officers during COVID-19.

shopping centres and hospitality.

The report, written by

Security

Perpetuity

has

Research,

In addition, the report states clearly that in the light of

looks

the COVID-19 pandemic, there is little to no evidence

comparatively high death

that using cash can spread Coronavirus, as well as

rate

highlighting the work members of the industry are

based

carrying out to keep cash in circulation as a safe choice.

gender and ethnicity.

Find out more in our special report on pages 22-24.

Download the report: www.corpssecurity.co.uk

into amongst on

age,

the officers health,

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TROPER LAICEPS CHANGING PERCEPTIONS OF THE 'HIDDEN WORKFORCE'

The BSIA have been leading a campaign to raise awareness to the general public on the work of the security officer.

BY ANDREW COOPER

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The BSIA has joined forces with the

is designed to change the public

Security Institute and the Security

perception of the security professional.

Commonwealth to run an awareness

It will showcase security professionals

campaign to highlight the essential role

as a respected, valued, professional

that security officers play in public life,

service provider contributing to and

and to increase respect and recognition

creating

for their capabilities.

environment: critical to protecting

a

safe

and

secure

people, places, and property – a key The campaign, The Hidden Workforce -

worker that is acknowledged and

resetting perceptions of the security officer,

embedded in our daily lives.

Changing

perceptions briefing

Within the last few months, due to the

cyber and engineering to protective

The industry will be reaching out to all

onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,

services,

companies,

professionals

security officers have been working in

measures and security officers. The

organisations

in

critical settings playing key roles whilst

latter engages with society more than

participate in the campaign, and hope

remaining unheralded, such as; working at testing centres and the NHS Nightingale Hospitals, ensuring critical food deliveries from warehouses and managing queues and customers at

including

both

technical

the rest but is often overlooked and unappreciated. Great effort has been invested in the professional standards and capabilities of frontline officers and they have proven their worth during the Coronavirus crisis in the UK. They,

supermarkets. They have also been

along with the wider security sector

involved in safeguarding the homeless

deserve to be recognised, respected

in

and appreciated for the safety and

new

sheltered

accommodation,

physical security at factories and premises, protecting industrial estates from illegal fly tipping during lockdown; and

supporting

police

patrols

in

London. These are just a few examples of roles the industry and their officers provide that the industry believes are

security they provide across the UK. Guy Matthias, Chairman, The Security Commonwealth (SyCom), said: “SyCom is comprised of some 40 organisations from across the security landscape all of whom share common objectives.

the

sector

and to

that over the coming challenging weeks as lockdown is eased, the industry can play its part in ensuring that the country emerges with confidence to start to recover and build for the future.

Along with the wider security sector, security officers deserve to be recognised, respected and appreciated for the safety and security they provide across the UK.

These include building professionalism,

Over the next few pages we look at

raising standards and sharing best

some of the work our members have

practice in order to help develop a

been involved in during the pandemic

more effective security response to

from their perspective, and also look at

keep people safe and secure. I hope

officers as key workers is the start of a

the results of a recent YouGov poll we

that this campaign can make more

reappraisal

commissioned to find out current public

people recognise the changes we have

perceptions of the security officer.

rarely acknowledged by the public.

Mike Reddington, Chief Executive, BSIA, said: “The recognition of security of

what

service

they

provide to the community in keeping the public safe and secure. As we exit lockdown and have to navigate public

all made and continue to make.”

www.bsia.co.uk/hidden-workforce

spaces again, they will have a crucial role in supporting public confidence.

We are working closely with the Police and all other public bodies to find the best way to achieve this.”

Rick Mounfield, Chief Executive, The Security Institute, said: “The security sector is vast with specialisms from Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

9

YEVRUS VOGUOY

THE PUBLIC'S PERCEPTION OF THE SECURITY OFFICER IN 2020 The current public perception of security officers playing an ‘essential role’ in the United Kingdom, both prior and during the COVID-19 pandemic, is only ‘slightly ahead of traffic wardens’, according to a recent YouGov survey.

BY ANDREW COOPER

In August, the survey, Perceptions of the security officer, was carried out by YouGov on behalf of the BSIA, the Security Institute, and the Security Commonwealth, as part of the Hidden Workforce campaign. The survey looked to find out the perception of security officers amongst the British public and to understand the extent of the key issues they face, namely lack of respect, recognition and underestimation of their role.

While 31% of those polled believed that security officers are fundamental to keeping the UK safe and secure, with 41% indicating respect and a feeling of safety due the work that

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security officers carry out, the role of the security officer ranked 9th out of 10 essential services, behind postal workers and pharmacists, and just ahead of traffic wardens, who were ranked 10th.

When asked about these roles during COVID-19, security officers were not mentioned at all as an essential service.

The public's

perception briefing

When asked about which characteristics describe the personality of a security officer, the highest scores were for ‘honest’, ‘alert’, ‘trustworthy’, ‘brave’ and 'confident', but some respondents looked at officers as being ‘authoritative’, ‘rigid’, ‘burly’, ‘threatening’ and ‘unintelligent’.

Respondents also felt that the crimes that security officers help prevent are shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and petty crime, and that officers should only work closely with the police if asked.

Mike Reddington, Chief Executive, BSIA, said: “The results of the YouGov survey, Perceptions of the security officer, highlight that, whilst a good level of the public feel safe and reassured in the presence of a security officer, they do not see their services as essential and even less so during the recent pandemic.

"Although security officers were recognised by the UK Government as key workers during this time, it seems that the perception of the role they play in our daily lives is still at a low level and this needs to be addressed urgently.”

When asked about these roles during COVID-19, security officers were not mentioned at all as an essential service.

The survey was conducted in August 2020 and was answered by 2,119 respondents, 49% of which were male and 51% female.

Of the respondents 38% were in full time employment and 34% were retired. The average age of respondents was 35, with 73% aged between 35 and 55+.

Full details of the survey can be found on the Hidden Workforce page on the BSIA website. www.bsia.co.uk/hidden-workforce

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A COUNTRY UNDER COVID Our members across the country recall how their businesses have been adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic and thoughts for the future.

Gideon Reichental, Commercial Sales Manager, Clearway Services These are exceptional times. The high street, retail and trade parks and so much more are closed down and streets are empty.

No one really had the time to sit and ponder this situation and the impact that it may have. As specialists in vacant property we have been sharing

KATHERINE INGRAM

our insight into vacant property protection to assist property managers and the simple steps they can take to ensure that their premises remain

Ian McCulloch, Mobile Patrol Officer, Securitas UK

safe.

From ensuring security systems are working correctly to safely storing or

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, our

removing stock and valuable items - up until now these have been issues

roles have been even more demanding. We’ve

that have only affected property that is vacant/empty because it is being

had to be even more vigilant and carry out

sold or let but with the lockdown this is now affecting a whole range sites

extra duties with added responsibilities.

that have closed down.

Don Robins, Managing Director, Printwaste Recycling & Shredding

As critical workers, we are essential in helping to prevent the spread of the virus. COVID -19 is on my mind all the time and I’m proud of the

COVID-19 has heavily impacted the tourism and entertainment industry, now and into the future, and this will greatly affect the amount of security required to support this industry.

work I do.

Home working and vulnerability to cyber-attacks will need to be I feel a huge sense of pride knowing that I’m

considered carefully and the new attitude towards home working may

helping prevent the spread of the virus and

accelerate the trend towards going paperless, potentially reducing the

keeping people safe.

requirement for as much confidential shredding.

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A country

under COVID

Michele Morgan, Customer Service Director, ADT Being put in a challenging situation has allowed companies to think of alternative ways to problem solve, enforcing new internal processes that enable them to continue their projects and forecasting work capacity. The time invested in this has helped to improve internal processes that may have been in need of updating anyway, and will be beneficial for adapting to a more flexible way of working in the future.

All key workers have pulled together to tackle the severity of the current situation, and to ensure that no further distress is caused to those who are already feeling uncertain about their future.

Abbey Petkar, Managing Director, Magenta Security It was an incredibly important moment when the BSIA and

Some police forces in particular have been very cooperative

SIA came together to lobby and ensure we are recognised

by not withdrawing their responses at commercial

as key workers. They have stood up for us as an industry at

premises, which may have been left unoccupied, until

a time when it truly matters.

arrangements are made to gain entry to carry out remedial work to prevent false alarms.

Though it has been reported that there has been a 28% reduction in most areas of crime during the lockdown, particularly domestic burglary, rape and assault, other areas have not fared so well especially break-ins and theft at commercial sites – notably offices and pubs.

At this time the simple presence of a security officer is usually enough is a deterrent to keep a property safe, which in turn is vital for the future security of the businesses in question.

Carl Meason, Managing Director, Fenix Monitoring

Naz Dossa, CEO, PeopleSafe

Fenix was planning very early and introduced a 'Lockdown'

In certain sectors there is increased demand for lone

three weeks before the Government advice. This included

worker services and such cases are on the up. We can also

stopping all unnecessary visits into the Alarm Receiving

see where we need to be flexible and quick to provide our

Centre and most visits to customers, ordering additional

services as needs are increasing rapidly.

equipment for remote working and developing nonessential processes to work from home. This had the

Also, the ways we engage with our customers is changing

possibility to decimate a business which would not survive

and we have had to adapt to meet those needs, be it sales

any down time.

related or training-led.

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KEEPING COVID AT BAY: HOW OUR MEMBERS PLAYED A PART COVID-19 has irrevocably changed how we act on a daily basis and, as the majority of the workforce transitioned to working from home during the lockdown, the security industry was working in critical settings or developing new initiatives to mitigate the threat of the virus.

These are just a few examples of some of the work our members have been involved in.

security and cleaning services during both the setting up and the

Mitie has been involved in a variety of COVID-19

on baggage trays at security checkpoints.

operational phase of the field hospital.

When the Government put out an urgent call for 5,000 additional ventilators to be provided within two weeks and 30,000 within a few months, Smiths Detection put in motion plans to scale up production of its PARAPAC Plus ventilators with a pledge to build up to 10,000 new devices. Smiths Detection also launched new ultraviolet (UVC) light kits capable of destroying up to 99.9% of microorganisms present

projects including providing security services to the NHS Nightingale Hospitals in London and

With social-distancing measures in place in retail stores, Elmdene

Cardiff as well as providing facilities management

launched a new Shop Traffic Signal, the STOP-GO Traffic Light Signal, a

services for five COVID-19 test centres in

simple Controller and Light system to indicate admission into a

Penrith, Inverness, Bournemouth, Perth and

building or shop, to help with limiting numbers for social-distancing

Llandudno. Mitie has supported each site by

measures, by signalling to on-coming customers whether they can

providing critical clinical waste management and

safely enter.

security

services.

This

includes

traffic

management and lane support.

Elmdene also saw a rise in demand for ‘Touch-Free’ Exit Buttons, as contactless door control within buildings is more of a requirement and

OCS Group also played its part in the setting up

have added two new Exit Buttons, the AMS-EBIR4-BG and the AMS-

of NHS Nightingale in Birmingham, providing

EBIR5-RG, both designed for for use in access control systems.

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Keeping COVID

at bay

OPTEX recently developed an innovative and highly accurate people counting technology by embedding the latest Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol into OPTEX’s existing Akribos VC-1020 people counting system that enables data to be communicated in real time and for the people count to be instantaneously updated.

TDSi launched a new Track and Trace function to help customers manage COVID-19 containment and track potential infection transmission, using access control data. The Track and Trace module is designed to help organisations investigate and map the movement of people potentially infected with COVID-19, so those who have come into potential contact can isolate or seek medical testing.

G4S were another member company involved in the setting up of the Nightingale Hospitals.

Chris Burr, Managing Director, G4S Events describes the skills and mindset required during these difficult times

During those initial days, getting the team together was a key focus. We needed around 150 security officers ready on site in just a few days - but I knew we had a large workforce from our events business who we could turn to.

It’s an entirely contactless process - which was essential in limiting the spread of the virus, as well as using thermal temperature distances

cameras,

and,

where

emphasising required,

maintaining

wearing

safe

protective

equipment.

This model, which can be scaled up or down to meet demand at short notice, was then rolled out as my team deployed at

Suddenly it’s late-March and we are in the grip of the worst global pandemic in living memory, events are no longer taking place, and we’re asking our staff if they’d be willing instead to be a key part of the government response to this crisis.

It was only natural to have some apprehension about how they would respond to the call. Rewind to the beginning of March and they were expecting to spend the next six

two other NHS Nightingale Hospitals in Glasgow and Manchester, and my G4S colleagues also deployed at the NHS Nightingale hospital in Jersey.

months working casual shifts at music festivals, football matches and other events. Suddenly it’s late-March and we

From the very first call we never doubted that we were the

are in the grip of the worst global pandemic in living

right company to support our NHS at the Nightingale

memory, those events are no longer taking place, and we’re

hospitals. The timescales to fully mobilise were very short -

asking if they’d be willing instead to be a key part of the

but we had a professional workforce ready to go, tried,

government response to this crisis.

tested and trusted security solutions ready to deploy, and the sophisticated technology and tools to keep patients,

We never needed to worry. We know our team members,

medical staff, contractors and our security officers safe. We

and what I saw was a real show of pride, resilience and

could not be prouder of everyone in our teams at the NHS

enthusiasm to be involved at Nightingale, and to get out

Nightingale Hospitals for the vital part they are playing in

there and be a part of the response in such a productive way.

the fightback against COVID-19.

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SECURITY SYSTEMS DURING COVID-19 The security industry has been prominent in protecting people and property during the COVID-19 pandemic, with security systems playing a vital role as the UK’s restrictions began to be relaxed.

Both extremes have their own unique security needs and the current situation is highlighting where security works well, and where it may be falling short. Security systems have also come to the forefront when it comes to monitoring for other potential dangers such as fires, weather damage or water leaks. With people movement

BY JOHN DAVIES, TDSI

restricted, remote security systems really have become the ‘eyes and ears’ of the business, managing facilities during

What have the COVID-19 restrictions highlighted about the importance of security?

these restrictions.

How are security systems helping to combat the spread of

Medical staff have rightly had a high profile during the global pandemic as the ‘frontline troops’ in fighting the virus, but it has also highlighted the vital role that so many people play in our world. Essential workers such as cleaners, delivery/logistics teams, retail staff and the emergency services –are all doing critical jobs, whilst also battling the potential of being infected and subsequently ill themselves. I am proud to add the security industry to the long list of sectors which help us all stay safe and well something which the UK Government has acknowledged following a well-targeted lobbying campaign by the BSIA and SIA. Tough times bring out the best, but sadly also the worst in people – there will always be criminal elements who take advantage of dishonest opportunities. With the police and other emergency services facing unprecedented demand, private security provisions are playing a crucial role in protecting people and property. We have two ends of the spectrum, with many commercial and business properties lying empty and dormant, whilst many other facilities (especially in healthcare, logistics and retail) are working to full capacity.

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the COVID-19 virus right now?

Modern security systems go well beyond the traditional role of ‘security’, they also already have a significant safety component built in. Whether its protecting people and property from human threats, to monitoring for fires and other emergencies, or helping to locate missing vulnerable people/children.

Safety is intrinsic to most security systems. We have already seen an evolution in how security technology is being used. At TDSi for example, we have developed a Track and Trace software module for our EXgarde security management software. This utilises existing hardware to track the use of secured access, helping to map the movements (and potential contact) of people that report COVID-19-like symptoms or who have been tested positive.

Without this level of detail, it would be considerably more difficult to ascertain the potential vectors of infection, but access control is already well geared to track and identify

been in regular use only weeks before.

However it has been proven that it is

Security systems people as they enter secured areas. Our team took the initiative to develop a bespoke application, which is easy to deploy, and we are offering it for free, so it can be used wherever its needed. Other key applications include the use of heat-sensitive cameras to check people moving through controlled spaces for elevated temperature – one of the key signs of COVID-19 infection. In key locations such as healthcare facilities and logistics hubs, this level of automated detection and alerts is playing a crucial role in helping to tackle the spread of infection.

What part will security play during the recovery period?

As we have seen in other parts of the world, the period during the relaxing of restrictions can also be a great challenge. Strict social distancing will inevitably need to

during COVID-19

remain in place for some time, and as people return to their workplaces or start to venture out to use retail facilities, there will need to be automated security in place to help manage this. There are also likely to be tough times ahead with the significant economic fallout from lockdown. During every previous economic downturn, we have seen an increase in crime levels, and the vulnerability of valuable goods and property has become an increased worry as criminals become more desperate.

Inevitably the security market will change too. End users will need the right protection for the right price. Remote access is already essential, but there will be an increased demand to do more for less, so automated systems which can take the strain will be in high demand.

CELEBRATING SECURITY EXCELLENCE - ONLINE FOR 2020 In 2020, the BSIA decided to host its British Security Awards online for the first time due to the restrictions in place due to COVID-19

The awards, streamed live on 1 July on

with

the BSIA’s YouTube account, featured

individual who has made a fantastic

special guests, including Commissioner

and life-long commitment to the

of the Metropolitan Police, Dame

industry. But 2020 is different. I had

Cressida Dick DBE QPM and outgoing CEO of the Security Industry Authority,

BY ANDREW COOPER

Our

flagship

Ian Todd, who all paid tribute to the

event,

the

British

Security Awards took place online for the first time ever this year, and as well as rewarding security officers and companies in 15 categories, a Chairman’s Recognition Award was announced security

to

officers

recognise

all

the

working

on

the

frontline during COVID-19.

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work

carried

out

under

extreme

circumstances by members of the Association and the industry as a whole,

recognising

an

outstanding

only one nomination in mind and therefore only one winner that I felt deserved the recognition, which is our frontline officers for the work they have carried out during the COVID-19

as well as congratulating this year’s

crisis - to recognise their resilience and

finalists.

the risks they have taken and continue to take, and to recognise their part as

In announcing the Recognition Award,

critical workers.

Simon Banks, Chairman of the BSIA, said: “It is always the tradition to close

"This is our clap for security officers.”

British Security Awards

Mike Reddington, Chief Executive, BSIA, said: “Despite the most challenging issue in our lifetime, our members have still managed to present us with a large number of award nominees and eventual winners, and it was only right that we continued

to

honour

both

their

commitment and the achievements of their employees in the most fitting way possible.

"We have an industry fit to burst with positive ambassadors from within our sector; from young officers starting out to seasoned professionals - every one of

NATIONAL WINNERS 2020 Best Newcomer Harriet Giles, Mitie Best Team Templars Square Security Team, Westgrove Group Security Manager of the Year Babatunde Lawal, G4S Service to the Customer Thomas Ibbetson, G4S Outstanding Act Adam Rich, Mitie

them recognised today for having gone above

and

demonstrating

beyond courage,

expectations, innovation,

customer service and contribution to the industry.

"Congratulations to all the winners and thank you once again for everyone’s contribution to our industry over the last 12

months,

particularly

COVID-19 pandemic.”

during

the

Online 2020

Apprentice of the Year Tessa Bruce, EFT Systems Installer of the Year nmcn National Partnership M&S Connected Solution, Mitie Innovative Security Project Ultraviolet Light Tray Disinfection, Smiths Detection

The

awards

were

sponsored

by

Camberford Underwriting, SaferCash, Innovise, NSI, Texecom, Optex and Fenix Monitoring, and its official media partner was infologue.com.

The event was dedicated to all security personnel who sadly lost their lives during the course of duty in 2020.

Subject to the ongoing situation, the British Security Awards will return to the London Marriott Grosvenor Square on 30 June 2021.

SME of the Year Fenix Monitoring Business of the Year STM Group

You can watch again on our YouTube page : www.youtube.co.uk/theBSIA

Best Use of Technology B&Q Crime Centre, Mitie Contribution to the Industry Mike Cleary, Smartwater Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

19

S U C O F R E B M E M

KEEPING THE CAPITAL COVERED STM Group's 200+ strong team who look after the Elizabeth Line are some of the best performing rail Customer Experience staff in the industry, as seen in recent NRPS scores.

not wearing coverings correctly and provide a positive and industry leading example. As a result, the new initiative has been launched ‘Face Covering Compliance Team’.

Close work between James Cox, Head of Customer

BY AREVIKA STEPANIAN

Operations at MTR, David Evans and Terry Ketley on the project saw the new service go live on 21 September. The

From the beginning of COVID-19’s arrival, staff members

fully licensed SIA staff members are out during peak times

on London's Elizabeth Line have continued to operate on

throughout the week at both East and West sides of the line.

the front line, ensuring that railway and London keep moving. Many adjustments have been put into place to

The team provide support at gatelines, followed by travelling

ensure that the safety of customers and staff remain a pillar

across the whole network from Reading to Shenfield,

of core values and for STM to be able to continue operating

supporting, challenging and providing a strong, positive

safely.

presence.

The Key client, MTR Elizabeth Line, asked STM to provide a

Within the first weeks, tens of thousands of customers have

service that could provide a strong presence across both

been engaged by our FCCT, with thousands of those

East and West sides of the Queen Elizabeth Line to

challenged regarding not wearing masks. The positive

confidently reassure customers that the service is safe to

impact has already been felt, encouraging messages coming

travel on, through supporting and engaging customers who

in from rail users who have already noticed the engagement

are exempt from wearing coverings, challenging customers

of our team.

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In 2019, STM Group commenced a new contract with Network Rail, for the provision of Suicide Mitigation/Welfare Officers. The main responsibility of these dedicated personnel is to identify vulnerable people who may be at risk of self-harm or suicide.

However, it is also to provide a meet and greet service to customers travelling on the network, thereby significantly improving the customer service.

to ensure they both stand out, and also are easily recognisable as distinct from other railway staff.

Whilst this initiative only commenced in August 2019, there have already been over 100 of successful interventions, as well as a large number of positive customer comment. STM is proud of its involvement with this initiative, and its success in helping save lives on the rail network.

Recently, to raise the awareness of the World Suicide

BY AREVIKA STEPANIAN

STM provide in excess of 100 Welfare Officers focused on providing trespass and suicide mitigation, at stations within the South Western Railways network. This initiative has been driven by Network Rail, in conjunction with STM Group, as part of a commitment to reducing suicides on stations.

The initial deployment commenced with 18 stations, increasing week on week as the benefits of deployment were recognised throughout the rail industry. All Welfare staff are uniquely dressed in white hi viz uniforms, in order

Prevention Day (WSPD) 2020 day (on September 10th), the company released a video, where 9 STM heroes shared their stories on suicide preventions as well as an important message being shared by the Railway & BTP Chaplain, Andrea Smyth.

The video an be viewed on YouTube (search for STM Group Suicide Awareness). All the employees, featured in the video were then presented with a Hero Award for their remarkable actions.

Find out more by visiting www.stmsecurity.com

Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

21

TROPER LAICEPS

CASH IS A SAFE CHOICE In August the BSIA launched a campaign calling on retailers in all sectors and local authorities across the United Kingdom to recognise, acknowledge and to promote the use of cash as a SAFE choice for payment during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

years, it is still necessary for some to access and must be kept as a payment choice for all. In addition, the report states clearly that in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is little to no evidence that using cash can spread Coronavirus, as well as highlighting the work members of the industry are carrying out to keep cash in circulation as a safe choice.

BY KATHERINE INGRAM

As the Association that represents the UK’s cash-in-transit

As the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, rumours began to

industry, the BSIA has produced a report , Cash is a SAFE

swirl that cash could carry Coronavirus, and in response

Choice, a compendium of evidence-based research that

many major retailers put up ‘card only’ signs, which resulted

outlines the current approach to cash in which it is to be

in stymieing the use of cash in many places where it had

avoided as a credible transactional tool as the public return

been in regular use only weeks before.

to shopping centres and hospitality. Our report argued that this approach not only lacks credibility, but also takes away

However it has been proven that it is safe to use; according

choice from the consumer, poses a serious threat to the

to the Robert-Kock Institut, banknotes are often less

cash-in-transit industry, and the recovery of the UK

exposed to germs as they are protected by a wallet, pocket

economy.

or other closed container, with COVID-19‘s main transmission coming through droplets from either a cough

The report discussed how cash in the United Kingdom

or sneeze, and the World Health Organisation’s official

remains a comprehensive method of transaction and that,

advice recommends handwashing when coming into

although there has been a decrease for a number of

contact with various surfaces – that is not specific to cash.

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Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

been in regular use only weeks before.

However it has been proven that it is

SAFE choice household restrictions,audits it is evident in

Cash is a As a result of COVID-19, recent figures

and incorrect perceptions. Taking away

published by the Sunday Times in May

cash from communities who not only

confirmed

cash

rely on cash and the many who use cash

shopping

withdrawals fell below £1 billion for the

as alternative payment is taking away

possible. Imagine then, also relying on

first time in 15 years, worrying figures

choice of a valid transactional method.”

other services for essential goods to

that

weekly

for the cash industry. Tied in with shops taking less cash for couriers to pick up and cash machines that require less replenishment,

there

was

viable

many media reports that essential online

was

not

always

find out there are difficulties paying for A

recent

Which?

Survey

showed

those in cash.

consumer behaviour with cash during the pandemic. Of those who shopped in

The

person, 22% experienced problems

COVID-19 recovery strategy in May

paying for their goods. Many were

2020, with no reference to banknotes,

refused to pay in cash, emotionally

coins

stressed, with 162 people unable to

methods.

complete their purchases due to NO

focused on staying safe outside your

ALTERNATIVE means. One Sunday

home. This includes increased hygiene

With over 70,000 ATMs in the country

Times article quoted one in ten people

methods, social distancing measures

which are still regularly accessed, cash

being refused to pay in cash at the

and following the advice given to you by

still plays an integral role in society.

coffee chain Costa Coffee, stopping its

your employer when at work. This

Additionally, over two million adults

use altogether.

shows a key point for supermarkets and

concern that this would have a serious effect on companies who specialise in the transit of cash, even if there is enough

evidence

to

support

the

continuation of cash in circulation during the pandemic.

remain unbanked in Britain, some by choice, some by access. An estimated 1.9 million rely on cash for nearly every transaction they make, and eight million would struggle in a cashless society.

UK

and

Government

the For

released

varying

example,

a

payment Annex

A

"Taking away cash from communities who not only rely on cash and the many who use cash as alternative payment is taking away choice of a valid transactional method.”

Sarah Staff, Head of SaferCash, BSIA

“British consumers choose to pay by cash because it comes with many benefits,

most

importantly

a

As many families were kept from seeing

retailers to share advice on handling

each other due to new government

cash, to ensure everyone knows it is

convenient and alternate payment

safe to use. As retail restaurants, pubs

method”, says Sarah Staff, Head of

and tourist attractions have begun to

SaferCash, BSIA, “however they are

open since the summer it is extremely

regularly being swayed with constant

important

marketing and reminders to pay by

promoted.

that

this

messaging

is

card, ditch cash, shop online and keep things digital, and a great deal of

continued overleaf

businesses and retailers are simply refusing

to

accept

cash

without

explaining why, which promotes fear

Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

23

been in regular use only weeks before.

However it has been proven that it is

Cash is a

SAFE choice

audits While digital payments have become increasingly popular, it is vital that the millions of people with no choice but to rely on cash are not abandoned during this crisis. “As an industry, we owe it to consumers to explain why they should care about the future of cash, says Marc Terry, International Managing Director, Cardtronics; “our regulators, HMT, LINK and the PSR should be promoting the value of a strong cash

CASH IS SECURE It minimises risk as digital accounts are vulnerable to cybercrime, fraud, and power outages. it protects the privacy of the user and it is resilient – during a crisis we trust real currency –

also launched the campaign, ‘Cash is Safest’, stating their fully managed ATMs are free from Coronavirus allowing at least 72 hours to transport cash from the bank to the cash centre to cash in transit to the ATMs for the consumers to withdraw.

cash is a top recommended emergency item.

CASH IS ACCESSIBLE

There is hope that cash will recover in the long term but more needs to be done; “Cash use is expected to recover

ecosystem. Without cash, not only with

The UK Government and Chancellor

quickly, and we’ve seen a strong surge

the vulnerable in our society suffer, but

Rishi Sunak promised in March 2020

in demand for cash from businesses

the economy as a whole. Retailers of all

to create legislation to protect access

sizes benefit from cash transactions,

to cash. Cash also keeps growing as

and if it were to disappear, our society

the demand increases globally both in

would inevitably suffer.”

absolute value and relative to GDP.

that are reopening,"

says Gareth

Skinner, Head of Operational Risk at G4S

Cash

Solutions,

“during

the

pandemic, while some of our customers reduced their operations, others used

The cash industry is innovating to make

CASH IS FEE-FREE

sure that there is confidence in

There are no costs for consumers

obtaining cash as safely as possible and

using cash – it is pure tangible money.

keeping it in circulation. G4S has developed

contactless

point-of-sale

cash machines and intelligent safes that ensure that businesses can continue to accept cash and customers have a choice of how to pay, and Cardtronics recently launched a new service with PIN4,

allowing

charities,

local

card relationship. NoteMachine has

24

Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

especially smaller businesses - have come on board as a result of changing access to banks.”

CASH IS FOR EVERYONE History shows human beings have used tangible monetary systems since the Stone Age, it is democratic and inclusive, universal and a freedom of choice.

authorities and businesses to send cash to people without needing a banking or

much more cash and new clients -

It is important that these messages continue to be promoted to the general public and that retailers and local authorities are encouraged to consider the important role cash plays in society.

Cash is not only a contingent payment, it is a choice for many people and most

Cash is a

SAFE choice

importantly it is a safe choice for everyone.

interview with

Simon Banks You joined the board as Chairman in 2018. What were your first impressions?

When I took on the role as Chairman, I was very conscious the BSIA could offer more as a Trade Association and live up to its reputation as the voice for the professional security industry. The BSIA has always had a strong team, delivering quality services in many areas, such as SaferCash and SaferGems, ECHO. technical standards and government lobbying, but it competes with a lot for peoples’ attention in their busy lives. It was up to us to show how this great work was benefitting the member companies. I believe that BSIA is the go-to Association to comment on security matters and deliver true value to members.

RETURN TO FORM

What steps have you taken as Chairman to enhance the BSIA as the go-to Association for the security industry?

In October 2018, the BSIA Board fundamentally changed the governance of the Association. We formed a four-person Finance & General Purposes Committee, comprising of directors with complimentary skills, and the Board voted on increasing the length of term of the Chair from two to six years. The previous two-year chair term meant the incumbent was into handover mode just at the time when they were fully understanding the needs of the Association.

In August, our Chairman, Simon Banks was interviewed by IFSEC Global to discuss how the Association has evolved since he became chairman A RETURN TO FORM in 2018, as well as why the BSIA plays such an important role in development within the sector.

The turnaround strategy focused on the needs of BSIA members and key staff in

REPRODUCED BY PERMISSION

Recruiting a suitable new Chief Executive was vital; Mike Reddington is well

both the Association and the training subsidiary, Skills for Security, our training subsidiary helping to fill the skills gap for the security industry, while ensuring both returned to operating at a surplus. This pragmatic approach to our finances, closely aligned with a focus across all 16 sections of the membership, was our call to the industry that we’re delivering value, confidence and credibility to all our member companies. The BSIA has always been a marque of quality in the industry but like all established brands, it needed a refresh in order to stay relevant to new working practices and technology.

respected in the industry and has had an immediate impact on performance.

Similarly, the new Managing Director of Skills for Security, David Scott has rapidly professionalised the day to day operation of the training delivery. Better communication has also been key to returning to form. We involved the BSIA team in the development of the strategy and its delivery, providing regular updates for the Board and members to ensure results were lasting and meaningful.

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Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

The BSIA continues to be a huge player in the security

Simon Banks perceptions briefing guidance, they need someone to set an example and provide

sector. What are you doing to expand and put your name

direction. We are truly stronger together and the benefit of

out there?

your counter-parts’ experience and advice is invaluable

interview with

during these challenging times.

The BSIA isn’t just a logo on a website. It’s so much more than that. We’re telling a national story. I participated in a

The BSIA played an important role to ensure our workers

BBC interview at IFSEC International last year, and we

were included as key workers as the Security sector

were quoted in the Daily Telegraph the other day. It’s

provides such a vital link to blue-light services. The BSIA

important to get our industry – our 26-billion-euro industry

ensure that the private security sector and the emergency

that nobody has heard of unless they’re in it – out there

services work in harmony to increase public safety. We

getting recognised. We need end users, retailers, whomever

joined forces with likeminded associations and influencers

to aspire to being part of the BSIA.

to get the job done quickly, such as Ian Todd at the SIA. I spoke to Lord John Stevens, and told him we need to ensure

Skills for Security is a brilliant initiative. Has it become a

the security value chain is protected. These conversations

major part of BSIA’s offering?

led to ARC workers, licensed guards, installers for critical electronic security installation and more being counted as

We see Skills for Security as a complementary asset to

key workers.

everything the BSIA does. We’ve got hundreds of apprentices going through our skills programmes right now;

What’s next for BSIA?

every single one of them has switched from classroom to online learning almost seamlessly, which is fantastic.

Delivering more and more value to our members, so we

Companies must realise that if we are short on skills, all

need to ensure we are always the first to know about new

businesses in the value chain will be throttled back.

technology, events and opportunities that will make a

Manufacturing companies don’t sell products if Engineers

difference to their businesses.

aren’t installing them!

Standards will be ever more important, especially as other As they say: be a member, not an observer. Don’t be on the

close verticals start prospecting the security industry – so-

outside looking in when you could join and take advantage

called disruptors entering into our sector with cheaper

of all the benefits on offer. For instance, it would cost the

products that risk dumbing-down security and safety.

average SME Installer less than £1000 a year; in the grand scheme of things that’s not a lot of money for all the benefits

Government lobbying is continuing, and we’re representing

you get.

all sectors of the industry. People need to know we’re here.

If the BBC is discussing security officers or CCTV, they pick

What has BSIA’s response to COVID-19 been like? How

up the phone and call the BSIA, because we’ve got a

have you been working both internally and externally?

spokesperson for them. We are the experts, and we want to convey that. And the only way to continue to do so is to

The role of a trade association is important in ‘normal’ times.

lead from the front as the voice of the professional security

In the midst of a pandemic, it’s vital. Business owners need

industry.

Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

27

Blended

audits certification is, of course, one answer.

Certification plays proxy for the buyer: it provides confidence in the capability and integrity of providers, reassurance of

quality

companies

services who

supplied

meet

by

relevant

standards and operational codes of practice.

NSI has been in the Certification business just shy of 50 years. It’s a

A BLENDED APPROACH As staff begin returning to their workplaces Richard Jenkins, Chief Executive of the National Security Inspectorate describes how the certification body is adapting its auditing policy to best serve the future interests of security buyers facing significant COVID-19 related challenges.

deep

cleaning

procedures,

PPE

provision, social distancing and resetting limits on headcount within the workplace.

committed player. Its approved companies recognise the value it brings.

Its stakeholders invest huge trust in its rigour and impartiality. It does not take its responsibility lightly.

Companies

providing

certificated

security services achieve and maintain

Safety of staff, visitors and the general

their Certification

‘benchmark’ by

public is at the forefront of thinking for

signing up to a rigorous ongoing

facilities managers, whilst underlying

independent audit programme. For

security risks have not gone away. New

UKAS-accredited certification bodies

opportunities for those intent on crime

such as NSI the logistical challenge

Employers, site owners and facilities

may only become evident in the fullness

since the start of the COVID-19

managers are all now engaged in

of time. The impact of COVID-19 has

pandemic has been how to maintain the

required businesses, the security sector

rigour for which it is known, in a period

included, to be adaptable in delivering

in which auditors have had many

its security response in this changed

constraints on movement and access.

planning and implementing a range of practical measures to help safeguard workforces including those returning from nationally imposed ‘working from

environment.

In this context heightened attention

home’.

CERTIFICATION PLAYS PROXY

Health and Safety for all is the

has been given to the potential for remote audit, using – as indeed we all

How can security buyers be sure of

are – communications technologies

meeting the required demands and best

now part of everyday life, such as

is being given universally to COVID-19

discharging

Skype, Zoom and Microsoft Teams

best practice, be it in increased and

Leveraging independent third-party

predominant topic as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds. Extraordinary focus

28

Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

related

responsibilities?

amongst others.

Blended ‘STRESS

TESTING’

REMOTE

AUDIT POTENTIAL The Coronavirus ‘lockdown’ has seen collaboration technologies being put to the test around the country, globally, and

not

least

in

the

auditing

community. Interest in remote auditing has expanded exponentially. COVID-

audits

As part of NSI’s new blended audit

In addition, NSI’s NCP 119 Code of

programme, remote audits are being

Practice for the ‘Provision of Labour in

routinely utilised at NSI’s discretion for

the Security and Events Sector’ was

assessing

launched earlier this year in response

‘Management

requirements

where

System’

process

and

control is well documented. This, coupled with on-site verification and evidence gathering of service delivery, completes the audit jigsaw.

to recent feedback and evidence of poor

practices

potentially

compromising industry credibility. Its objective is to ensure all partners within the supply chain are operating as

19, so the headlines have it, means that in the world of auditing the time for remote audit has come, enabling ready access to shared viewing of essential documentation simply, reliably and effectively.

So to the key questions: does remote audit provide the required rigour worthy of certification? How does it stack up against traditional on-site audit? Is remote audit an alternative the public and businesses reliant on certification can trust?

At NSI we’ve considered the matter of remote

audit

carefully.

We’ve

concluded it has its place, whilst on-site audit will remain the mainstay of any product/service certification process – and with good reason. It’s clear to us remote auditing is not always either practically nor operationally desirable and cannot alone deliver all essential rigour.

CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR BUYERS Meanwhile, COVID-19 has not affected the ongoing march of progress in developing expects.

standards NSI’s

the

market

involvement

has

responsible employers e.g. with regard to payroll, training and right to work, as well as effectively filtering out the risk to the buyer of rogue labour.

The confidence of security buyers in

continued at pace during lockdown.

services

This has included support in the

certificated companies audited by NSI

development of the BSIA’s recently

is assured in the aftermath of the

launched

COVID-19

cyber

security

Code

of

provided

crisis

by

third

through

party

NSI’s

Practice for the Installation of Safety Our solution is the adoption of a

continuing drive to raise standards in

and Security Systems, revisions of the

blended audit strategy – a carefully

intruder alarm confirmation standard

the sector and its rigorous blended

considered combination of remote and

and CCTV detector-activated alarm

on-site audit capability fit for the future

standard, and development of a new

post pandemic world, and in sync with

ARC alarm handling standard.

audit strategy.

For more information on the NSI visit www.nsi.org.uk

current Government guidelines.

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| Autumn 2020

29

TOPS EHT NO

BSIA MEMBERSHIP: TOM FORD Our Membership Development Manager, Tom Ford, joined the Association in Autumn 2019.

Since joining Tom has been on a mission to make sure our members old and new get the best value possible from their membership.

membership associations for the last ten years and I wanted to put my experience and my skills to the test by working at a more senior level. This was an opportunity for me to grow both personally and professionally within a clearly progressive association.

INTERVIEW BY KATHERINE INGRAM

The way that I work follows three core principles that a few great people have

If you were introducing the BSIA to someone for the first time, how would you describe the Association and what it represents?

The BSIA represents the entire security industry in the United Kingdom – and what some people may not know is that it’s incredibly vast! In order to manage these different areas we have three pillars – security officer services, electronic

security

and

physical

security, which encompass the various industry sub-groups.

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In addition to this, the BSIA has various

helped me establish along the way

interest groups focusing on cyber

namely: early intervention, ongoing

security, international security and

engagement

many working groups with a technical

communication.

and

consistent

angle. There is a strong likelihood of finding a group which organisations can

These points apply not only to me but

fit into, that really focus in on areas to

members and potential new members.

support individual and business needs.

Communication is two-way at all times

What’s your experience within member associations and why did you want to join the BSIA?

- this ensures that an organisation gets out of its membership what they put in, as well as the BSIA giving the best opportunity they can for a company to

I’ve worked around trade bodies and

see return on investment.

Interview with What were your goals starting off at the BSIA and how have they developed?

The holy grail for anyone working in a membership body is engagement, the major focus absolutely has to be on both

recruitment

and

retention.

When I joined, this was at the forefront of my “wish list”. Skip forward to March 2020 and we were

What would you say to organisations looking to be potential BSIA members?

There has never been a better time to align yourself with a strong trade association. The BSIA is the voice of the professional security industry that fights for change, stability, reassurance and assurance on matters which affect our members' businesses.

Tom Ford

and our retention figures are the best they have been in that time too, so it’s only up from here. A balance between recruitment and retention will always remain, it’s the nature of things but we want to make sure those who have chosen to join the BSIA are given the guidance and support they need, and all the tools in which to grow.

pushed to think a little quicker than we otherwise may have done and move into an arena where we could actually provide thought-provoking, member

driven

content

without

people having to leave their homes.

We hoped to enhance the presence of our leading industry experts online, support

their

business

growth

through strong marketing and we successfully

delivered

thought

provoking and rich content by the

Whether Government, environmental or standards-driven issues, we are here to

members for the members, whilst

help. I have to stress that members only

encouraging new audiences too.

get out of it what they put in, return on

How would you want anyone interested in membership to contact you?

investment is directly proportional to

That’s easy! Call me, email me, message

skyrocketed

engagement. When members do engage

me on LinkedIn, call the office or

the

they’ll receive a vast amount of insight

enquire through our website or speak

industry looked to the BSIA for

and

to the team in the office!

answers surrounding key workers,

opportunities to consult and network

exemptions and lobbying campaigns

with other professionals within the

based on new Government guidelines.

industry and support from a strong arm

We did not let them down and playing

of

Engagement during

really

lockdown,

as

entire

a small part in this has been a humbling experience – and I believe the BSIA has leapt from strength to strength during this time and truly showed our industry who we are and what we are all about.

information

into

communications,

their

sector,

whether

in

marketing or PR form.

How would you describe the current BSIA membership climate?

It has been a really busy few months working

with

new

members,

re-

engaging with current members and driving thought provoking industry insight, but we’re always here to support

your

applications

and

enquiries.

Well, we’ve onboarded more companies this year, than in the previous six years

To get in touch email t.ford@bsia.co.uk

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| Autumn 2020

31

TROPER LAICEPS

BACK TO THE OFFICE? It’s safe to say that that 2020 has been a whirlwind of a year, especially for those working in offices up and down the country.

When the nationwide lockdown came into force in March it left the majority of the country furloughed, out of work or, most likely, working from home within a blink of an eye.

But were businesses prepared?

A REPORT BY THE BSIA INFORMATION DESTRUCTION SECTION

Did it ever cross anyone’s mind that our work and home life would get closer than ever?

What risks are attached to working from home? Possibly the simplest ones are time, day management, collaboration and switching off. In an office environment, decisions can be made faster with the decision makers present to agree/disagree there and then. Day management is something that people tend to learn over time, although with the COVID-19 lockdown and the immediate changes this was not always possible.

Those who have been brought into the workplace for a longer time have learned the routine of getting up, leaving the house, travelling into work, structuring their day, working alongside peers and returning home with no more thoughts of work, are the ones most affected. Stability and routine are necessary working factors, but not everyone is equipped to deal with the motivation needed to manage days working from home, especially when that space may seem temporary or have another purpose (such as being at a kitchen table).

There have been many times this year where video calls and conferences have taken place

Collaboration is possible through conference calling software but

with distractions in the background, makeshift

cannot replace face-to-face meetings where you can read body

desks in living rooms, bedrooms or at kitchen

language, be part of a discussion, not worry about muting or WiFi

tables and shared between family members.

connectivity issues.

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| Autumn 2020

Returning

to work

Your presence is real in a meeting,

to find themselves feeling more disconnected from their work environment than

not a pixelated version of yourself

ever. Whilst happy and thankful to be in a job, the joys of going out to work are

showing

office

being put behind, as life is becoming more trapped behind screens and a never-

background within the professional

changing home environment. Similar to the use of social media and life online

environment. Lastly, switching off, it

versus in reality, working behind a closed environment could be what could bring

is very easy to see who is still online

efficiency to a halt, dependant on how employees are able to cope and receive

until late, with some sending emails

changes. Not to mention comparing themselves to other employees who can

and calling past your contracted

afford bespoke office space from home.

your

makeshift

hours. As there is no commute to and from work more and more people find themselves working for longer, but when do you switch off?

Are the separation lines between personal/private life and work life diminishing? Has anyone thought about the effects on people’s health and wellbeing?

Do these factors mean we could be less efficient working from home?

We must remember that no two employees are the same, but as in schools, it is ideal to have a fundamental set up with equal equipment to ensure one is not disadvantaged

over

another.

Although businesses are ready to communicate and work digitally, this instant switch to working from home has not given sufficient time

With over six months since the lockdown taking hold and with staff continuing to work from home have people had the resources and space to create an office environment at home and work well?

to process and plan, but rather react

Where does this leave security? The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

to a pandemic. Reactive solutions

has been one of the most talked about subjects since 2018 when it was

are never ideal for the long-term

implemented. Yet with physical office buildings switching to home set ups in a

and we all need to be more

short period of time, has anyone thought about how confidential information gets

proactive moving forward. With

between the two places without breaching GDPR? What company policies have

that said, the support networks in

been created to protect information whether verbal, digital and in physical form?

some

cases

are

lacking

with

employees being checked in on only

continued overleaf

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| Autumn 2020

33

Returning

to work

Have people thought about who could be listening to their

end of life, whether to be destroyed or returned to the

meetings whilst at home, especially if discussing

office to be kept or be destroyed. Otherwise is risk of

confidential information? This is also the case for any

confidential information being leaked is too high.

written notes made during conversations and being left around the house – are they secure? Not everyone lives

“If we wouldn’t allow employees to have their work emails

alone or with family and even living with family we do not

on their own personal phones, what makes it ok during

share confidential business information.

this pandemic to allow physical records to be within people’s homes? The answer is simple, get people back to

The unfortunate cyber-attack the NHS experienced in

the offices, return to normality.”

2017 proves the importance of keeping physical records around

and

not

relying

on

a

complete

digital

Where do we go from here? With the furlough scheme

transformation. But physical records hold value and the

ending and the UK Government recommending staff to

information on them is easily read by anyone who can

return to offices, UK businesses need to look at where the

access them. This is really where we need protection. In

future of office working can change. Without doubt many

some job roles records have not yet been converted into

employees prefer both structure and flexible working

digital files and yet these still need to be worked on. How

hours and these points need to be considered for the

are businesses getting files to and from the offices?

office life to work healthily.

A household shredder does not guarantee paperwork being destroyed properly and following quality standards. This is a reason Information Destruction companies are a crucial part of maintaining confidentiality.

Don Robins, Chairman of the BSIA’s Information

After all, without office employees returning to work,

Destruction section shared his view, “Whilst a majority of

other services cannot continue, and less work is available

businesses have no doubt robust digital communications

for people to do, thus allowing the economy to take a turn

measures in place, the focus on physical documents has

for the worse.

been somewhat forgotten. As employees start to return to their offices, businesses must be in a position to know and

The office should be the heart of your business, promoting

keep track of what paperwork has been distributed and

security for staff, for information it keeps and for the

how it is being stored. A simple household shredder is

future of the business giving a presence of standing strong

simply not enough, nor does it have a guarantee of

after COVID-19.

paperwork being destroyed properly and following British quality Standards.

"This is a reason Information Destruction companies are a crucial part of maintaining confidentiality with all kinds of firms large and small. Any notes or printing which occurs from working on files must also have a procedure for their 34

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| Autumn 2020

KEEPING YOUR CENTRAL HUB This year Webeye took the decision to move offices during lockdown. Global Sales Director Mark Wall discusses why it is still important that companies keep the all important central hub.

Given we’re all living through some challenging times why have you decided this is the right time to move?

To put it simply - we’re growing! There is a phenomenal increase in webeyeCMS connections (our flagship alarm monitoring platform) and we have seen record sales of hardware in spite of the pandemic. We have the right products at the right time!

There are some exciting integrations and new product launches in the pipeline and in order to continue to respond to the new security and business challenges the industry is facing we need the space to expand.

With a greater reliance on home working why did you see the need to invest in bricks and mortar?

True, post lock-down all of us have realised we don’t need to be in the office all of the time. A lot of work activity can be done from home but we still need a hub and central location to be the focus of the business. Knowing everyone is part of the team is vital for company cohesion and only so much can be done via webinars.

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| Autumn 2020

A new office/showroom with purpose built facilities is a tangible manifestation that we are confident about

the

future

and

want

a

comfortable

environment for our staff as an appreciation for their dedication and hard work.

What challenges did you face when deciding on new premises?

Pre-COVID-19,

we

considered

just

making

alterations and extending our current location but we soon realised it no longer reflected the business we have now become. We’re a business with a global reach and rapid growth. We believe in nurturing local talent and want to remain a high-tech success story in the Mansfield area so it was vital we stayed within computable distance of most of our staff. We needed somewhere with good transport links and easy access from the M1 and East Midlands Airport.

It had to be a building with ‘growing room’; a showcase for new products and demonstrations; one we would be proud to show potential customers and business partners. continued overleaf

Keeping your

central hub

This brief lead to a lengthy search as we didn’t want the

What kind of reaction have you had from your customers

financial commitment of a fully bespoke new build but it

about the move?

had to be quickly adaptable to meet our needs. We are excited about our final choice, the contractors are now

Most are excited and many say about time. They are

making the changes and we hope to be in the new building

looking forward to be invited to the new premises and I’m

in the next few weeks.

sure, when it is safe to do so, we’ll make a big ’splash’ about it. We want them to be part of our success and the

What additional services will you be able to offer when

even better service this move will facilitate will benefit all

you are in the new building?

our customers.

Post-pandemic, we are hoping to set up a Training

Do you see a time when you will outgrow your new

Academy and Knowledge Base. The good transport links;

premises?

the fact we’re in the middle of the UK and space in the new building will give us the opportunity to better showcase

It has taken us 10 years to 'outgrow' our current premises

and demonstrate products. We have an excellent

with the last three years being a bit of a squeeze! All

reputation for customer support and our product training

departments are expanding to meet the demand and

is second to none. We want to expand on this and we’re in

we’re moving into a building which should give us some

talks with some of our business partners and customers to

growing room. We thought we had the next 10 years

use our training facilities to showcase their products.

covered but with our current rate of growth who knows!

A lot of work activity can be done from home but we still need a hub and central location to be the focus of the business. Knowing everyone is part of the team is vital for company cohesion and only so much can be done via webinars.

What are your company hopes for the future?

Our motto is ‘for a safer world’; That now carries new poignancy and one we are committed to. We invest in our staff and want everyone who works for us to be part of our success story and engaged in the journey we’re on. We have exciting new products along the way that fit in with our ethos and the webeyeCMS platform is constantly improving with new features and benefits to meet the needs of security professionals. We are continuing to expand in the US and see potential growth in Europe and the rest of the world.

Find out more about Webeye at www.webeyecms.com

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37

GIANT STEPS

Emergency

Systems

Birmingham Met College and one in

(FESS) Apprenticeship Trailblazer. In

Oxford coming very soon. We now have

order to deliver high quality training,

over

we recruited five full-time tutors. All

programme with 16 who qualified over

were fully qualified engineers from the

the course of this year.

sector.

In the last 18 months, BSIA's wholly own subsidiary, Skills for Security has gone from strength to strength, including opening a new training centre, increased apprentices and a new website.

It

and

is

Security

important

that

200

Apprentices

SECURITY OFFICER

who

APPRENTICESHIP

recent,

relevant

the

our

apprentices are learning from people have

on

and

extensive experience of the Fire & Security market.

Additionally, it’s great to see people giving back to the industry they love!

We have a brand new, purpose-built

We have been working with the security sector to create a Professional Security Officer Apprenticeship. For Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland, this should be available this year and

training centre in Warrington with

we are looking at satellite training

numerous practical working stations

centres to deliver this. For England, we

Skills for Security in 2019, my main aim

and three classrooms for theory and

are part of the Trailblazer Group,

has been to raise the quality of our

hands-on technical classes. We have

where 40 leading companies have been

electronic

also added three satellite centres to our

involved to help develop both Level 2

organisation, which are EFT Systems,

and degree level apprenticeships, which

BY DAVID SCOTT

Since I became Managing Director of

security

programme

specifically in our delivery of the Fire,

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Spectrum

| Autumn 2020

-

Skills for

Security

aim to promote the security sector as a

There is an opportunity here for the fire

As well as offering advice and courses

career of choice for those looking for a

and security sector to bring these

designed for anyone wishing to become

career in a diverse and robust sector.

talented young people into an ever

an apprentice in fire, emergency and

There are four different pathways

growing and diverse environment. With

security systems, team leadership and

within this: events, licenses to practice,

government incentives, a huge talent

customer service, the new website

CCTV operators and door supervisors.

pool out there and the potential for

The key worker status now held by

high-level qualifications, there has

offers accredited commercial technical

these roles mean they need the best

never been a better time to be or

training possible. We are also helping to

recruit an apprentice in the Fire &

upskill

security

Security industry. Studies show that

personnel with CPD qualifications

20% of economic recovery for a

throughout this year.

business is based on investments in

existing

physical

MINIMAL COVID IMPACT We expected to see a drop in

training

courses

and

continuing

professional development, both online and classroom based.

training and development. That is why the government are backing this so heavily!

recruitment during the lockdown, but we have enrolled 50 new apprentices

NEW CENTRE NEW WEBSITE

between April and August. Hopefully this is a sign that things will continue as

This month sees us launching our new

normal. We have 1.4 million young

website and a refreshed brand identity

people (16-19) leaving school in the UK

to reflect our status as the largest

this year, many who would normally go

supplier

security

Apprenticeships are a vital route into a

to College or University but 20% are

apprenticeships in the UK. We have

successful career in the security sector;

deferring their place as a result of

also relocated to Warrington to a new

at

COVID-19.

larger training centre, and the new

apprentices

website and brand identity

is the

England, we are leading the industry in

consolidation of our commitment to

online accredited training and we can

deliver on our promise of providing a

offer highly effective programs for

high

of

quality

fire

and

education

to

their

apprentices, and playing a crucial role in creating the skilled engineers needed within the industry. The new strapline, ‘tomorrow’s engineers, today’, has been created to reflect this aspiration.

present

we

have

enrolled

over

200

throughout

companies through a range of mixed delivery methods. I am really confident that our new identity and website is a positive reflection of our offer to apprentices and companies alike. www.skillsforsecurity.org.uk

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| Autumn 2020

39

Keeping you

informed The BSIA keeps you to date with industry news, updates on the work of the Association and the latest innovations of our members.

BSIA

Broadcast

Our monthly webinar and podcast series, featuring leading industry experts on hot topics of the day

BSIA

Connect

At the end of each month we update our members with a compendium of the work of the Association and latest news from the industry

BSIA

Spotlight

Thought leadership and opinion pieces from across the industry by our members and strategic partners

BSIA

Product

The lastest innovations and product launches communicated to you on the second week of each month

www.bsia.co.uk/news-and-insight

25 years of

Magenta Security

What more does the security industry

must not set up a new business without

need to do in its current landscape?

the proper licenses and insurance – every year people try, but they fail and

Despite our improvement and change

those

towards being a professional sector, we

disrepute. It is vital to understand the

do still have a long way to go. There are

fiscal and temporal investment needed

still too many cowboy firms and rogue operators dragging down our credibility, bringing us into disrepute and creating issues for those of us who do adhere to all the correct standards. Standards that include, above all else, the provision of a fairly paid, safe and secure working environment.

Magenta Security celebrated their quarter century this as well as 20 years of BSIA membership. Abbey Petkar, Managing Director, talks about changes to the industry over the last 25 years

BY ADAM BAGGS

failures

bring

us

all

into

to succeed.

How has being part of the BSIA helped you over the years?

Being a part of the industry’s leading trade body has ensured we are part of a wider

family,

capable

of

making

changes that impact us all for the

I also firmly believe that we need to come together as one voice. Frankly,

better. Through trade associations we have a voice amongst our peers but also in the wider world, including client

there are too many niche sectors within

sectors and government. It is vital to be

our wider sector each clamouring for

a part of a successful trade association

attention. If we work together we can

as it drives the industry through

achieve more, something that was made

positive change and acts as a forum to

clear at the start of the COVID pandemic

share best practice and ensure key

when we weren’t even recognised as key

knowledge is available for all.

How has the industry changed over

workers by the government. Only by

the past 25 years?

acting together for the good of all were

Ultimately, through 25 years of growth

we able to make our case and change

and learning I have loved seeing my

that attitude.

industry develop and improve – as well

Do you have any advice for someone

huge pleasure to see others succeed

Fundamentally,

we

have

become

as my team and business. It gives me

significantly more professional during the last 25 years.

Standards have

improved, pay levels have improved

just starting out in security?

Through our ongoing CSR initiatives it

and our credibility as an industry continues

to

grow

and

gain

The

most

important

thing

and be a part of their story and growth.

is

to

momentum. Guards are no longer big

undertake research and understand the

guys in black jackets but professionally

industry. We are a 24/7/365 industry,

licensed individuals with the support

there is no down time. We work when

and weight of their employers and

others party, we work when others sleep

industry behind them. In years gone

and rest – newcomers need to be

by, security was a stop-gap job and a

prepared for that.

way to earn cash on the way to

professionalism means you cannot and

Our increased

is also a genuine pleasure to take the positive work we do in Magenta beyond our own business and share it with communities both local and far away. It helps me get up in the morning, it helps me support my staff and they in turn have helped Magenta go on to bigger and better things over many years of hard work and passion.

something better. Now it is a career path.

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| Autumn 2020

41

Latest

members

The BSIA would like to welcome the following members who joined the Association in the last quarter. We look forward to representing you.

nmcn is a people-focused business that works in partnership with its customers to deliver major built environment and critical national infrastructure projects across the UK.

STM Group was established in 2005 and has quickly become recognised as one of the UK’s leading support service companies, delivering high-quality security, cleaning, and customer-focused, services, underpinned and supported by leading edge technology.

Secure Empty Property offers a complete security and management service around empty properties. They understand the need to protect valuable property assets quickly and cost effectively.

G6 Global exists to create the best communications system for operational needs, having worked in almost every corner of the globe including Iraq, Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Libya, USA, Germany and France.

Siteserv Recycling Limited is a family owned organisation, Its aim is to minimise costs, and divert material away from landfill, wherever possible.

Oakpark Security Systems Ltd is a leading supplier of business resilience and security solutions across East Anglia and the South Coast of England.

Oracle Security Services is a professional, innovative and vibrant security company based in London, providing professional, cost effective and comprehensive security services.

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Latest

members

Boundary specialise in intruder alarms and our aim is to take proven alarm technology and modernise it. A Boundary alarm is a tried and tested burglar detection methods combined with Internet of Things capabilities.

SOLID Security Services is an organisation which prioritises their customer’s requests and pursues to meet and surpass all expectations.

Facewatch is one of the UK’s leading facial recognition companies. Facewatch’s cloudbased facial recognition security system safeguards businesses against crime.

EFT Systems is an integrated security manufacturer, designer, installer and maintainer which has become one of the leading providers of Life Safety and Security Systems across the UK.

Gryphon Safety & Security are one of the most trusted and professional suppliers of safety and security staff and training within the event industry.

County specialise in the areas of forfeiture of leases, removal of travellers, eviction of squatters, process serving, investigations and vacant building security.

Innovative Security Solutions is a security company based in Birmingham, offering complete security solutions to clients from a wide range of industry sectors.

Securitatem is forged from nearly 100 years collective experience in security and tempered in the world's most hostile environments.

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43

www.bsia.co.uk/digital-voice