Security Guarding Services
A document, developed by RISCAuthority and published by the Fire Protection Association (FPA), provides guidance on security guarding services.
While this document has been developed with input from insurers and industry experts, it does not represent a uniform stance from all insurers. Each company may have its specific requirements, which should be considered alongside this guide.
The FPA has put forth efforts to ensure that the content reflects current best practices. However, the information provided is for general guidance only and is offered on an "as is" basis. No guarantees, warranties, or representations are made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or relevance of the recommendations, which may not consider all the latest technologies or systems.
Keyholding services ensure a professional response to incidents, such as alarm activations, and are often used to alleviate the risk of sending in-house employees to attend to security alerts.
1. Types of Security Guarding
Static Guarding
Mobile Patrol Services
Keyholding and Response Services
Cash and Valuables in Transit (CViT)
2. Regulatory and Approval Bodies
The Passport Route to ACS
Contract vs. In-House Security
The Security Guarding Landscape
What is in the Document?
4. Keyholding and Response Services
3. Mobile Patrol Services
Mobile patrols provide flexible, on-demand security, performing checks on doors, perimeters, and alarms. These services ensure premises are regularly monitored, offering real-time reporting and GPS tracking for enhanced transparency.
1. Types of Security Guarding
Security guarding services play a critical role in protecting assets and ensuring public safety. These services can include surveillance, patrolling, access control, security checks, emergency response, and customer service. The nature of the role may vary depending on the sector, such as retail, healthcare, or events. Security operatives often require specialized training and an SIA (Security Industry Authority) license to carry out their duties legally.
2. Static Guarding
Static guarding involves providing security at fixed locations such as commercial buildings, industrial sites, or public facilities. It serves as a visible deterrent and helps maintain site security. This type of guarding often operates during non-business hours, with staff required to follow specific protocols based on site-specific security risk assessments.
5. Cash and Valuables in Transit (CViT)
CViT services involve the secure transportation of cash or valuables. These services must comply with relevant national standards and require stringent safety protocols, such as using vehicles with high-security features.
6. Regulatory and Approval Bodies
The UK security industry is regulated by the SIA under the Private Security Industry Act. Approved security providers must meet strict licensing and operational standards, with regular audits ensuring compliance. Customers are encouraged to choose providers approved by organizations like the NSI (National Security Inspectorate) or SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspections Board).
7. The Passport Route to ACS
The NSI Passport Scheme offers a streamlined route for companies to achieve both NSI Guarding approval and ACS (Approved Contractor Scheme) approval through an integrated audit program.
8. Contract vs. In-House Security
When deciding between contracted security services and in-house teams, organizations must weigh costs, management resources, and the integrity of personnel. Contracted security services, especially those approved by recognized bodies, offer flexibility and assurance of quality, making them a popular choice for many businesses.
9. The Security Guarding Landscape
The security industry is facing challenges, including labour shortages and evolving client demands. This has led to increased reliance on "bought-in labour" from external sources. Businesses must ensure that staff provided through labour providers meet all regulatory requirements, particularly in terms of identity verification and right-to-work checks.
The NSI has introduced a code of practice to ensure that labour providers used by approved security companies are properly vetted and compliant with industry standards.
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