What to Expect from a Manned Guarding Security Service

 

Manned guarding (also known as on-site guarding or security guards) is a security provision put in place to protect people, equipment, processes, high value assets, spaces and more. Manned guarding protects against criminal damage, assault, vandalism and theft (to name a few) and usually takes place out of hours but sometimes when staff are still present. It is one of the most effective measures that can be taken against crime-related security risks.

 

When hiring manned guarding service you should ensure they are licensed by the SIA and have passed the relevant CRB and right to work checks. Generally uniformed by the organisation manned guards not only provide a visual deterrent but also protect the people / property they have been instructed to do. Manned guards work in conjunction with other systems, such as CCTV monitoring, alarm systems and mobile patrols allowing the security guards to not only do their job but also add value in other areas.

 

 

Is Manned Guarding right for your organisation?

 

No matter the size or nature of your organisation manned guarding can help, whether you require front of house access and exit, night patrols, onsite security or lock up and unlock services. Here are a few examples of businesses that can benefit from using manned guarding service:

 

·       Hospitals

·       Student accommodation

·       Logistics and warehousing

·       Manufacturing businesses

·       Construction sites

 

 

Benefits of Manned Guarding security services

The manned guarding services can help prevent unauthorised access to your premises

 

Ø  Physical (and visual) deterrent is generally more effective when compared to standalone / remote monitoring only

Ø  Manned guards respond to any issues arising on sites instantly

Ø  Security guards are supported by 24/7 control room who work with the security team and are able to check on the status of the security guards but can also bring in additional support if an incident occurs or in an emergency situation

Ø  Monitor daily tasks, provide reports and provide feedback where value added services can be implemented

Ø  Fully trained manned guards are usually able to anticipate issues before they arise meaning problems are eliminated before escalating

Ø  Peace of mind that people, property assets and equipment are protected

Ø  Protection from unforeseen threats such as fires or floods. Having manned security means these issues are responded to instantly limiting damage, minimising closure and protecting people on site

Ø  Protection for staff and visitors. Having a security guard on site means they are quickly able to respond to emergencies but also provide a reassuring and friendly face in public areas, if trained correctly they can also provide additional assistance for anyone who needs it

Ø  Potential discounts from insurance companies to businesses that have manned guarding provisions in place

Ø  Being the eyes and ears on site means fully trained security guards are able to recognise changes in the nature and levels of risks and inform about the types of changes required to maintain an effective security provision

 

 

 

What to look for when hiring manned guarding security services

 

ü  Security guards should be employed by the organisation and not self-employed or subcontracted. They should be CRB checked and Right to Work checked and should be matched to the customers’ requirements based on specific profiling to ensure the best fit. English language and personality tests should be carried out by the organisation before employing the security personnel.

ü  The security provider should participate in the ACS (Approved Contractor Scheme) run by the SIA, which is a voluntary scheme for security companies to join to prove they meet and exceed quality standards and are audited twice a year as a minimum. 20% of the security industry are currently registered on the ACS scheme. There are approximately 4000 companies in the security industry of which 800 are members of the ACS.

ü  Security guards should be covered by the relevant insurances protecting you from unexpected costs.

ü  The security supplier should provide a bespoke security package based on the requirements of the organisation. Using a 3-step process to recognise the value of high-quality security service provision:

ü  Identify what security operations success looks like for your organisation.

ü  Define and identify the right team to work within the organisation. Set up and run the security provision as a live eco-system.

ü  Onstantly review, update and report on the security provision and value-added operations provided.

 

Conclusion

 

The security guards should not only provide the core functions of the contract but also provide an added value service that focuses on creating a positive return on the investment in security through operations continuity, people protection and equipment loss minimisation, plus identifying ongoing operations efficiencies that extends beyond the manned guarding security service by Patrolsec typically supplied.