County Security grows its business using SmartTask workforce management software

Using SmartTask to manage mobile operations and client reports saves security company over 730 admin hours per year (100 working days)

Benefits at a Glance

• Simplified operations for staff deployment, client reports and service delivery with one system
• Saves time with easy to use app for staff to share site information and updates
• Reduced administration with electronic capturing of billable hours and site reports, equating to more than 730 hours a year (100 working days)
• Improved service delivery with quick response to alarm calls and customer updates to meet SLAs
• Helps support environmental goals with electronic systems replacing paper documentation, and operational efficiencies reducing fuel costs

County Security provides professional and bespoke security services in the UK and holds SIA ACS approved contractor status. Its comprehensive services include security guarding and events, dog handlers, mobile patrols, key holding, CCTV security and alarm response services. The company works across many sectors, comprising commercial property, constructions sites and the public sector including education and local authority sites.

Part of the ARM Group, County Security is known in the industry for providing a first-class security service for over four decades.  It has recently invested in its business, deploying SmartTask’s workforce management software to manage activity for its entire operations, from generating rosters and managing check calls, to control room operations and mobile patrols. As a result, the company has saved 730 hours per year of admin time, which equates to 100 working days – time which is now redirected to more valuable customer facing activities.

One central management system for the business

After reviewing several competitive products, County Security selected SmartTask’s software for its modular approach and its scalability to support future growth. The software is used by employees across the business, including security guards, dog handlers, office-based staff and response drivers.

Sam Noble, Director of Security at County Security said; “Our service deployment is based around our workforce management system, and so the chosen solution needed to meet the requirements for all of our staff, both working at client sites and in the control room and back office.

“We chose SmartTask as it could support rostering, check calls, control room, mobile services and any ad hoc work. Its usability was a big plus for our back office team and our staff on the ground, and it’s really easy to upscale as we grow the business.”

Electronic documents increase efficiencies

The control room staff use the system to support and manage lone workers, monitoring booking on and off to meet its contractual and compliance terms and to ensure staff safety. In addition, the HR team uses SmartTask to manage all HR related documentation and policies, including holiday, which staff can request via the app. Updates to company procedures or working methods can be easily broadcast in a simple, consistent way. Company newsletters, mission statements are all sent via the portal.

“SmartTask gives us a consistent way to communicate with our mobile staff. Employees like the fact that it is easy to use and they can access everything they need in one place. Risk assessments, site information, shift plans – everything can be sent using the app,” said Sam Noble.

Live updates enable faster response

Using the real-time system, the control room can send officers the latest run sheets with their site schedules. Having staff location visibility also enables the control room team to send the nearest driver to attend an alarm response call. This saves time, helping both to meet key KPIs and is a more efficient use of vehicle and fuel resources.

Accurate reports help meet client SLAs

Up to the minute proof of attendance data on the system means that the latest check call information and reports can be shared promptly with clients, giving immediate visibility of site visits and updates.

With accurate records of staff movements, County Security is able to keep a close eye on billable hours to ensure invoices are correct and that it meets the contractual obligations of Service Level Agreements. Reports can also be created quickly and easily to check queries as and when they happen, rather than having to review historic paper records.

Supporting business growth

The successful deployment of SmartTask has enabled County Security to benefit as a whole business, from efficiencies in its back office operations to improved frontline services to customers.

“We recognised that we had to change our working systems and SmartTask has helped us to do exactly that. It all comes down to how our business works, using SmartTask has made operations a lot easier to manage. It’s easy to use, which has been a great benefit and the team at SmartTask offered excellent training and support. The efficiencies gained have helped us to scale up and our business has grown massively as a result,” said Sam Noble.

Having security dogs is a practical and cost-effective approach to providing additional security in a variety of situations. Dog unit security are quite valuable for any site requirement and provide a distinct outlook when utilised for security. Humans see life mostly via sight, however, dogs use their sense of smell to detect and pick up anything.

Dog unit security involves using the services of well-trained security dogs and security guards, for security purposes. Dog unit security is a very efficient deterrent for all criminals and their actions. The sole presence of security dogs can lower the number of security guards needed for a variety of locations, as intruders are typically deterred by the presence of dogs that are publicly promoted. 

Hiring the service of a dog unit security may also be for a one-time event or as part of a longer-term security solution, as they have expertise in dealing with both large and small enterprises. Body cams can be worn by security dogs’ handlers, to provide live broadcasts of activities taking place in real-time. 

Accordingly, County Security is a specialist in deploying trained and accredited dog unit security nationwide. This deployment is to a wide range of clients, which include; construction sites, vacant properties, residential properties, commercial properties etc. With this, the benefit of using the service of dog unit security is enormous.

Increased Effectiveness

The mere sight of security dogs and security guards together has strong effectiveness in securing a location. Whether the location is occupied by people or not, this acts as a strong deterrent to criminal activity. Having dog unit security on-site can minimise the requirement for several security guards at one location. As a result, you can spread out your security guards more efficiently.

Cost-Effectiveness

Using a dog unit security service is less expensive than other security choices. This leads to a reduction in the security budget, which saves you some money. In addition, dog unit security reduces crime, which lowers insurance excesses. It is also worth noting that dog unit security comes with its own specially designed transportation, making them much more mobile.

Sensing Issues Ahead of Time

Although CCTV is an excellent security option, it is far less effective than dog unit security, because the security alert only goes off when there is a threat. Whereas, security dogs can identify danger ahead of time using their acute sixth sense, as well as their sense of hearing and smell. The duty of security guards in situations like this is to organise and protect the people on-site in the best possible way to deal with such a situation.

Loyalty

County Security dogs are trained to be friendly and loyal to our clients, but they are also trained to make both auditory and visual signs when they detect a threat. Dogs are extremely devoted to their owners. They are unable to be bribed and are quite active. Security dogs tandem security guards are the ideal security solution for any purpose because of this.

 

If the service of a dog unit security is something you are interested in, do not hesitate to get in contact with County Security today!

At County UK, we make sure that none of our security guards overstep the line and only act as protection against harmful substances, harmful people and bad situations. What security guards can and can’t do is well known and understood by our security guards and our services are carried out in the most professional manner possible.

 

If you’re going to an event or need security for an event you’re putting on and want to know what security guards can and can’t do, we’ve put together a short guide. We are transparent about the service that we offer and are proud to boast the finest security guards. 

 

It is a sensible move to ensure that your clients can enjoy themself without the fear of injury or theft, which is surprisingly common at large events. If you are looking for security services, get in touch with County security UK.

 

What security guards can and can’t do

 

What security guards can do

Citizens arrest

 

Technically, any member of the public can perform a citizen’s arrest, as long as it is clear that someone is guilty, or you have a reasonable explanation of suspecting the person involved to be guilty. Security guards are properly trained and know and understand all the legalisation behind this and understand that police officers are the only people who can take a citizen’s arrest further.

 

Security guards can request a physical search

 

If you are entering a venue, security guards are legally allowed to request a physical search of your possessions carried with you and on your person before you enter the venue. They are also able to request a physical search of you and your belongings when you’re leaving and entering a shop on any grounds, more so if they can provide a reason of suspicion that you’ve stolen something. If you oppose letting them search you, security guards are allowed to stop you from getting into a venue or detain you at the scene if there are grounds of suspicion that you have committed an offence. A security guard can only request to do a physical search; if you don’t want to do it, they can detain you until police officers arrive.

 

What guards can’t do

 

Security guards cannot use brutal force

 

Unless the suspect resists, physical acts of enforcement should not be used at all. As well as this, guards should not use any additional force after the suspect has been restrained. Until police get to the scene and investigate it in more detail, the suspect should not receive any brutal force. None aggressive restraint should be used until the police get to the scene.

Security guards cannot carry a weapon

 

Just the same as the general public, security guards cannot hold weapons. Even something like pepper spray is a definite no. Even in cases where a weapon is not used to cause harm, it can still be used to cause fear which security guards cannot use as a deterrent.

 

For what reason can you be detained by a security guard?

 

The complexity of what security guards can and can’t do means there is confusion over what reasons you can be detained. Here are some following examples:

 

• They must witness or have a reasonable explanation to believe that a person has committed a crime.
• They have reason to believe or have witnessed an individual being in the middle of a criminal offence.
• To protect a person from causing harm to themselves or others.
• To prevent a person from damaging property.
• To not let someone leave the scene before an officer arrives to take over.

Thank you for reading our blog ‘What security guards can and can’t do’. If you are looking to hire security guards or need other security services put into place, get in touch with County Security UK today.

The Legalities of CCTV Towers

 

Currently, there are 5.2 million CCTV cameras scattered around the UK, watching the public at all times. 96% of those cameras are privately owned by businesses and homeowners, with the main purpose of protecting their property. However, before CCTV can be installed, there are certain legal requirements that must be met. These requirements can differ depending on whether your CCTV is privately or publicly owned.

CCTV towers often cover a much larger area, with cameras located to capture a 360 view. Because of this, the installation of CCTV towers comes with rules and regulations for both public and private use. 

Public use

The implementation of CCTV in public areas is relatively easy to do. Permission to do so is only needed if the building you’re installing it on, is a listed building. In the case of CCTV towers, which are often free-standing, this is a regulation you most likely won’t need to concern yourself with. However, permission is required for CCTV if the tower and housing of it is greater than 75cm x 25cm x 25cm. If the tower is being placed in an area of conservation, it is always best to check with local planning authorities before installing a CCTV tower. 

Placing CCTV towers in public areas also requires clear signage, stating the CCTV is in operation. This informs members of the public that they may be being filmed, and therefore is not a breach of their rights. The footage captured by these CCTV towers must only be used for security purposes, and distributing the footage out to third parties is an unlawful act. 

Private use

It is perfectly legal to install CCTV for private use, as the most common reason is to protect one’s property against theft and criminal damage. Your CCTV can cover your property and land without issue. 

If your CCTV or CCTV tower captures footage outside the boundaries of your property, such as other homes, driveways or land, then you will be subject to GDPR guidelines and the Data Protection Act 2018. Whilst having this type of CCTV coverage is not illegal, you have to ensure your CCTV complies with both these laws. This footage must be protected and cannot be accessed without a valid reason. Any footage captured by those outside the boundaries of your premises can be deleted upon their request. 

You do not need planning permission for CCTV towers if the dimensions do not exceed 4m in height. Any larger fixtures will need permission from the local council before being installed. 

 

Additional legal requirements

Sound or conversations cannot be recorded by CCTV, as it is illegal to record conversations without knowledge or permission from the individuals. Audio CCTV is also much more expensive than just visual, which is why almost all CCTV cameras do not record sound. 

If CCTV towers are installed by a business, someone must be named a CCTV operator. This individual is responsible for all footage captured by CCTV, deciding what should be captured and how it should be used. Should footage need to be accessed by a third party, such as law enforcement, the CCTV operator is in charge of handing over the required footage to this party within 40 days. 

If you are interested in installing a CCTV tower for either public or private use, contact County Security for a CCTV tower quote. Our towers are up to 75% cheaper than the usual Security Guard service, with a higher standard of quality. Visit our CCTV Towers service page for more information.

The concept of sniffer dogs has been around longer than you think, with detection dogs used by British forces in World War 2 to identify explosives. Police dogs have been used for well over 100 years, and bloodhounds even accompanied police forces in the search for Jack the Ripper in 1888. UK Police, Military forces and security teams have mastered the use of dogs for detection purposes, with the standard of training increasing over the years. Training techniques have been developed and refined, and skilled dogs are always getting better at drug detection. 

 

What they can smell

Sniffer dogs can smell a wide range of substances, from cannabis to heroin, to ketamine and MDMA. They are trained to identify illegal odours that emit from certain drugs. Whilst most sniffer dogs are trained to detect hard drugs, like cocaine, heroin and ecstasy, they also have the ability to detect lower-class drugs and pills. 

The list of substances that dogs can detect is always increasing in size. Currently, County Security UK’s search and detection dogs can smell: 

• MDMA – This drug is short for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine.

• Ketamine – An anaesthetic drug used in both medical and veterinary practises. 
• Marijuana – Or Weed, Cannabis and Pot. 
• Heroin – This is an opioid known for its euphoric effects. 
• Cocaine HCL – Or Cocaine Hydrochloride.
• Crack Cocaine – This derivative is cocaine mixed with water and another substance, often sodium bicarbonate.
• Ecstasy – Also known as Molly and MDMA. 
• Methamphetamines – The three main forms of methamphetamines are: crystalline, powder and base. 
• Opioids – Examples include: Codeine, Morphine, Oxycodone and Heroin.
• K2 – Also referred to as Spice.
• Xanax – Used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. 
• Adderall – A stimulant that can increase focus and/or concentration.
• Crystal Meth – A methamphetamine that is highly addictive to the consumer. 
• LSD – Short for Lysergic Acid Diethylamide.
• Fentanyl – A type of opioid used for pain killing purposes. 
• Amphetamine – These are used to treat ADHD, Narcolepsy and Obesity. 

As well as other over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Detection dogs are trained to identify these substances and their derivatives, protecting a specific area from illegal drugs. Their sense of smell is 40 times that of humans, and given their high intellect they can be easily trained to detect and identify certain odours. 

 

How they’re trained

Detection dogs begin training when they are still a puppy, around 6 to 8 weeks depending on the determination of the dog. Certain puppies will be identified in a litter and chosen by security, military and police forces for a specific purpose. It soon becomes clear which dogs aren’t suited to the detection lifestyle. 

From there, puppies are taught with a reward system, awarded with a treat or toy whenever they successfully detect the presence of drugs. That scent is then associated with a treat and dogs will happily seek out drugs or other substances. Trainers must be given licensing and certification by law enforcement agencies if they wish to use small samples of drugs during training, but can use alternatives that mimic the scent of various drugs. 

Sniffer dogs are trained to alert in two different ways, passively and aggressively. The former refers to a dog lying or sitting down once it has identified a scent, while the latter consists of a sniffer dog pawing or digging at the spot without damaging personal property. Passive alerts are more commonly used by handlers, as they pose less of a threat to property and possessions. 

County Security UK provides an exceptional search and detection dog service, with a team of professional and experienced handlers we can help you with your security needs. Get in touch with us today for more information on our services, or visit our Search & Detection Dog page. 

What is Key Holding?

Keyholding is a service offered by security companies such as ourselves, whereby we hold a set of keys (in a secure location) to be used in the event of a security breach on your commercial premises. It offers the client peace of mind knowing that their security is being handled by professional and reliable security personnel. This, as you can imagine, has a wide range of benefits to any business, and that’s what we’ll be exploring in more detail below.

Some smaller businesses might be fine with having a trusted member of staff (typically a manager) who holds the keys and is responsible for responding to emergencies or security breaches. While this works for small shops or offices, larger companies will need a more secure and reliable key holding solution. That’s where our key holding and alarm response service comes in.

County UK’s key holding service offers you complete peace of mind when it comes to your business premises. In the event of an emergency or break-in, you can depend on a high-quality and well-trained officer to arrive immediately on-site, whatever time of day or night it might be. That means, if at four in the morning an emergency occurs, you’re not forcing a member of staff to respond: you’re leaving it to a security professional.

 

Why Your Business Needs a Key Holding Service

1. The keyholder takes the responsibility

If you own the business, you’ll likely be the main key holder. Do you want the hassle and stress of being woken up in the middle on the night to learn that your alarm has gone off, only to arrive at the business premises and see it was a false alarm?

Or even worse, would you want to arrive at your business alone at night if there is an intruder present?

Leave this to the trained experts with a professional key holding service.

2. Key holders are always available

Are you available and able to respond to emergencies at all times of the day and night? Even if you have a secondary member of staff with keys, there is no guarantee that they will be available at all times.

On the other hand, professional key holders will be always available no matter what the time is and they will respond to emergencies 24/7.

3. Key holders know proper security procedures

Trained key holders know exactly how to act in the event of an emergency or security breach. They will handle the situation properly so you can rest assured that your commercial premises and belongings are in safe hands.

4. Key holders have technical knowledge & experience

False alarms are not uncommon. It might be that there’s a technical problem in the alarm system. Professional key holders will know how to fix the issue and will be able to reset the alarm system, thereby reducing unnecessary stress and saving time.

5. Key holders are reliable

How easy is it to lose a set of keys? The truth is that keys go missing all the time so even if left with a trusted employee, can you rely on them 100% not to lose the spare key?

As part of our key holding service we’ll keep your keys protected in a highly secure off-site location, so you don’t need to worry about losing them or having them stolen.

County Security Professional Key Holders

County UK are a nationwide Key Holding & Alarm Response service provider. By Utilising our Key Holing & Alarm Response services you are ensuring that you have SIA Licenced Key Holders with expert knowledge and experience within the Key Holding & Alarm Response market. Our Key Holding & Alarm Response services are provided at a fixed Fee competitive rate, so you can be sure whatever your budget, your asset will remain protected with our Key Holding & Alarm Response Service.

 

 

It is thought that a dog’s nose is up to 10,000 times more sensitive to smells than an average human nose. The sense of smell is a dog’s most dominant sense, followed by hearing and sight. This makes them extremely effective for drug detection purposes in large crowds, where people may be trying to conceal illegal substances that would otherwise be undetectable to security/police.

How does a sniffer dog detect drugs?

Sniffer dogs have absolutely no interest in the drugs themselves. What they’re actually searching for is their favourite toy. The way they are trained means that they associate a certain toy with the small of drugs – Their natural instinct is to hunt and seek out whatever they’ve been trained to find.

If well managed and trained sniffer dogs are intensely loyal, creating strong bonds with their handlers. They are obedient, respond well to training and can work in intensely stressful environments.

While a sniffer dog is on a drug search, he can cover a large area very quickly. It would take human officers 10 times as long, if not longer, to search the same area. Even still, they wouldn’t find what a sniffer dog would find if the drugs were well hidden (which they typically are!)

As an example of how great sniffer dogs are at detecting drugs, back in 2002, a drugs dog foiled a woman’s attempt to smuggle marijuana into a prison in Brisbane, Australia. The marijuana had been inserted into a balloon, which was smeared with coffee, pepper, and petroleum jelly and then placed in her bra.

How are sniffer dogs trained?

Sniffer dogs are excellent at their jobs but they do take some training to get to this high level of accuracy. During the early stages of training a sniffer dog will receive a reward when it displays any form of recognition of the target scent. As the dog’s skills progress the reward will only be given when the dog responds with the correct reaction (e.g. sit, stand, stare, down, bark, etc…).

Canine Sniffer dogs and their handlers undergo extensive training for months in order to be certified and are successful because of their ability to work as a team. They will carry out testing and retraining throughout their entire careers to ensure their skills are reliable and up to standard. (Dogs typically stay assigned to the handler they were trained with and the team get re-tested together)

Drug detection dogs can be used for a range of operations and assignments including but not limited to; Airports, Marine applications, Media solutions, Hospitals and mental health facilities together with schools, colleges and universities, events, prisons, businesses and homes, who all see the benefits of using sniffer dogs for tighter security measures. They can be used to detect drugs on individuals, within buildings, open areas and vehicles.

County Security UK

County UK are specialists in providing sniffer dogs for all of your security needs. By utilising County you are ensuring that you have SIA licensed sniffer dog handlers with expert knowledge and experience in handling large crowds. Our sniffer dog services are provided at a fixed fee competitive rate.

If you’d like to learn more about our search and detection dog services, get in touch with our team today.