Here are some key pointers you may wish to check when considering a company to provide your manned security…
- have you been shown details of the company’s structure, principles and ultimate ownership?
- are two years audited trading accounts and evidence of sound financial backing available?
- is the company adequately insured?
- is a satisfactory written contract agreed and signed by you?
- does the company have a secure administrative office?
Staff Selection and Vetting
- does the company conduct a minimum of 5 years retrospective vetting?
- are all previous employers for the last 5 years contacted?
- are all gaps in employment accounted for?
- is the vetting process documented and recorded?
- is a senior member of staff responsible to ensure this is all carried out?
Training
- does the company have a qualified trainer?
- does each security officer receive basic job training before on-site deployment?
- are employee training records kept?
- do any security officers have a recognised security qualification?
Terms & Conditions
- do staff receive an adequate level of pay?
- do staff receive holiday entitlement?
- do staff receive sick pay?
- are you satisfied staff do not work excessive hours?
Management and Supervision
- does the company operate a secure, efficient and well-managed Control Room?
- does it comply with building & fire regulations?
- is remote supervision operated through check calls?
- are records kept to check the running of sites?
- has a competent person conducted a site survey and issued a written report, including health, safety and risk assessment prior to providing the service?
- will you approve and sign a copy of the Assignment Instructions for your site?
- is there a system of proper supervision and management for nights and weekends?
- are incidents notified to senior management?
Quality Standards
- can the company certify it complies with the codes of practice for the security industry?
- is the company certified to ISO9001?
- is the inspecting body accredited by UKAS?
this information has been provided by the NSI www.nsi.org.uk