Posts

A&R Security Services, A&R Security, Security, Mobile Security, Mobile Patrols, Security Services, Cardiff, RCT, Newport, Bridgend, Swansea

SIA Accreditation: Why is it so important?

When making the decision to invest in security for your business, you’ll want to be able to rely on a trustworthy provider and have a clear idea of what you are getting.

One way to ensure that you are getting value is to hire fully trained and vetted SIA Security Guards, like those at A&R Security Services.

But why is it so important to have SIA licensed guards?

Quality that you can trust

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) was created by the government to protect your business. It helps regulate the private security industry effectively where businesses have seen reduced criminality, raised standards in services and personal and a clear picture of a high-quality service.

When having a guard that holds an SIA license, you can be sure that they are fully trained and vetted to complete their job.

Fully licensed SIA guards will have been trained to respond to any situation that they may experience out in the field. Training for SIA licenses is broken down into three core areas. Trainees begin by learning the essentials of common security industry knowledge including awareness of the law in the private security industry, health and safety, fire awareness, emergency procedures and communication with customer care.

Following this training the SIA will develop this initial training into specialist sections where training officers have the opportunity to learn the following services in-depth: patrolling, access control, technology and systems in the security environment, security officers, the law and communication, reporting and record-keeping: all of which are essential as guards will need a basic understanding of each when they are out in the field protecting your business.

Accommodating business demands

The private Security Industry Act was brought in to regulate the private security industry in England and Wales in 2001 which was later implemented in Scotland in 2007 and Northern Ireland in 2009. Since then they have been a number of changes to the accreditation and despite scrutiny of its effectiveness it remains, and businesses can see the clear benefits of hiring security guards that are fully trained and hold an SIA license.

Here A&R Security Services we are proud to provide SIA vetted security guards to effectively protect your business from criminal activity. For more information or to arrange a free quotation call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Customer Experience, Customer Service, Business Security, Security Services, A&R Security Services

The Importance of Customer Experience in the Security Industry

For business owners, it can be a bit of a minefield to find the right security service. They want to know that the security provider that they have chosen will give them the best possible service as well as listen to their needs.

That is why here at A&R Security Services, we listen to our customers and tailor our services to them and any changes are noted and implemented.

So, here are some ways in which the customer experience will enhance your business by hiring security professionals

Transparent security presence.

Security guards should convey the impression that guards are ready to protect staff, clients and visitors by performing manned patrols at your business. Manned Security guards can quickly respond to incidents, as well as acting as a point of contact for anyone who needs assistance.

Face of the business

If you have a business or building that has front of house services, having concierge or front of house guards can protect your business. As soon as someone enters your building, they are greeted by a friendly and familiar face – who not only is able to protect them, but also act as the face of your business. Having front of house or concierge security staff to greet everyone who comes and goes will ensure your reputation for customer service is upheld. As simple as it sounds, greeting visitors as they enter, and leave will give them the idea that they are appreciated and valued by your business. Also, it is a way for your security guards to identify and describe people easily if anyone commits a crime.

Maintaining client’s relationships

Having consistent security will reassure your customers that security guards will always be around to keep watch and protect. Having security guards to take the time to listen to clients worries and needs will confirm that the solution provided by the service will be delivered and help maintain a good relationship with your customers.

Addressing mistakes to gain trust

We all know that mistakes happen, and we learn from them. So, for professionals it’s better to address issues straight away and apologies to the customer – not run away from it and deny it ever happened.  When your business accepts that something went wrong, it will gain trust from customers who will be reassured that the mistakes are unlikely to happen again, and every effort will be made to fix the situation as soon as possible.

Human interaction

With the world thriving on the latest technological advancements, it is important for us to remember that the value of human interaction has in daily life. Creating a place in which customers can receive personable and physical recognition from staff can help customers who perhaps feel lonely, or in need of a friendly face. Security guards can be that form of human interaction at any time day or night.

Attention to Detail

One way in which you can guarantee customer satisfaction is by paying attention to the small things. Security guards paying attention to the smallest of details can go a long way especially if there is a problem that needs to be fixed.

Risk assessments to determine solutions

Having regular risk assessments of the premises will ensure that all areas are maintained for consistent monitoring, deterring crime and dealing with emergency situations. Security personnel can keep track of findings and compile reports so that legally you are covered for any claims made against your business.

Here at A&R Security Services, we offer tailored security solutions to businesses across Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend, South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our Manned guarding, Mobile Security Patrols, Secure Keyholding and Alarm Response Services – call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

SIA, SIA Licensed Guards, SIA Security Guards, Construction Site Security, Construction sites, Construction Site, Construction Security, Security Servives, Security, Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend, Swansea, RCT, A&R Security Services, A&R Security

Construction Site Security – Why should you have fully SIA licensed guards on your site?

Construction sites up and down South Wales can become very easy targets for criminal activity. The construction industry suffers enormous loses as a result of theft of equipment and materials, and damage by arson attacks. It is estimated between £600million and £1billion were lost because of theft alone from construction sites across South Wales and the UK.

A large portion of these losses can be attributed to inefficient or non-existent construction security measures.

Construction sites are easy targets for thieves. Constant staff turnover means it is difficult to keep good construction site security records. High-value equipment such as heavy machinery can lead to quick turnover and easy profits for successful thieves.

Even though construction sites are easy targets for criminals, many sites will contract external security services with fully licensed guards.

So why is it important to have fully licensed SIA security staff?

SIA (Security Industry Association) is an organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry.

Anyone who wants to work in the private security industry must have a full SIA license. Having a full SIA license means that anyone who is a security guard is legally able to work and have the skills and training necessary to operate.

However, fully licensed SIA security guards also require a CSCS Construction Related Occupation (CRO).  The reason why security guards must hold a CSCS card is to show that they can operate safely on a construction site. During day or night patrols, individuals must be aware of specific health and safety risks that are exclusive to a construction site. This is so that a security guard can work safely, efficiently, minimising the possibility of accidents.

SIA Licensed Security guards can perform a range of duties on a construction site including:

·         Manned and Mobile guarding

·         Door/ gate supervision

·         Public Space Supervision (CCTV)

·         Secure Keyholding

Manned / Mobile Security

Having Manned and or Mobile Security is effective at deterring any potential criminal activity. Having security guards not only allows you to place them in areas that are likely to be entered by criminals, but you can also have them patrol the site – covering all areas. This is especially helpful overnight or when the site is unattended for a period of time.  We at A&R Security services can provide manned guarding services to properties that require guarding 24/7, deterring any criminals from attempting to vandalise or steal from your site.

Door/Gate Supervision

Construction sites aren’t just new builds – they can be redevelopments of existing buildings. But these types of construction sites can still be easy targets for criminals. Placing guards in front of gates or doors can help monitor who is coming in and out of your site and watch out for any suspicious vehicles or activity.

Public Space Supervision (CCTV)

CCTV is frequently used by businesses and can be used as an effective deterrent for construction-based crimes. Placing security cameras around the perimeter of your site will discourage criminals but also identify any who try to either enter, vandalise or steal from your site.

CCTV can be an effective way for Security guards to monitor but also rapidly respond to any infiltrations. CCTV can also be used in court to help prosecute any offenders who manage to steal or damage the site.

Secure Key Holding

Although it is very easy to give someone a set of keys to your site in case of an emergency there is no stopping that person from letting anyone into your site and causing criminal damage. Security Guards can hold your keys and quickly respond to any suspicious activity on your site during out of hours. They can also allow trades onto your site and monitor them coming in and out – and can securely lock up your site at the end of the day.

If you are interested in Manned Guarding, Mobile Patrols, Secure Key Holding or other commercial security services please visit our website or call us on 01656 713950