How Professional Security Guards Can Protect Your Business

When you think about a security guard, you may picture someone standing at an entrance of a pub wearing a large overcoat and asking to check your ID.

Or the person who is sat in the portacabin at the entrance of the secure car park, you know the one who wears the high-vis jacket and checks your numberplate against a set list.

Both of these are the role of a professional security guard but also much more.

Although, it may sometimes seem like a simple process, the duties of security guards play a significant role in protecting businesses, people and property, helping keep us all safe and ensuring businesses operations continue to run smoothly.

Below we have detailed a few of the important ways in which professional security guards help protect businesses:

Guarding Your Premises

One of the key responsibilities of a security guard is maintaining a constant presence on site. Security guards can monitor buildings, entrances, car parks, storage areas and other vulnerable locations, helping to identify and respond to unusual or suspicious activity.

Their presence can also act as a strong visual deterrent to potential intruders and criminals.

Controlling Access 

Security guards can help control who enters a site or commercial setting. Depending on the requirements, this could be checking the ages of those entering a night club and therefore helping ensure applicable legal requirements are upheld.

Carrying out searches and vetting individuals who are attending public events such as music concerts and festivals.
It could also be ensuring that only employees are allowed access to the premises and that visitors are monitored and not able to access restricted areas.

Effective access control can be particularly important for offices, construction sites, warehouses, industrial facilities and other restricted areas.

Carrying Out Security Patrols

Regular security patrols allow guards to monitor areas that may not be covered effectively by fixed security systems such as CCTV. Patrols can be carried out at scheduled intervals or at varying times to provide a less predictable security presence.

During patrols, security guards can look for signs of damage, unauthorised access, suspicious activity or potential safety concerns.

Responding to Incidents

Security guards provide an important human response when an incident occurs. Whether responding to an alarm, dealing with an unauthorised visitor or reporting suspicious behaviour, trained guards can assess the situation and follow the appropriate procedures.

They can also maintain detailed incident records, helping businesses keep track of security issues and identify potential patterns.

Supporting Your Existing Security Measures

Professional security guards don’t necessarily replace CCTV, alarms or other technology. Instead, they can work alongside these systems to provide a more complete approach to security.

Technology can alert personnel to potential problems, while a trained guard can investigate and respond appropriately with a human touch.

SIA Licenced   

All security guards in the United Kingdom are required to hold a valid licence with the Security Industry Authority.

Holding an SIA Licence for the role in which they operate in security, provides confidence and reassurance to the businesses using their services that they have been vetted and trained meaning they are suitable to carry out their duties to the required level.

How County Security can help 

County Security provide experienced, SIA Licenced security guards to businesses across the UK, helping to protect their property, people and assets.

With over 40 years in UK Security, we are nationwide specialists in security guarding and provide Security Guards to a wide range of clients and industry sectors.

Our Security Guards are licensed by the Security Industry Authority SIA, hold Valid First Aid at work certificates, highly trained, presentable and personable.
Find out more about our security guarding services today and for a free, no-obligation quotation.

 

What are the Business Benefits of using Security Guards?

Security is a key component in the successful running of a business.

But with rises in operating costs, understandably many businesses are re-evaluating whether they really need the extra cost of employing a security guard on their doors or patrolling their warehouse, I mean almost nothing ever goes wrong…

But there only needs to be that one occasion where the warehouse is broken into and operations are halted or there’s a threat to public safety.

Security should bring additional value to the business too, including improved brand reputation and customer experience – all contributing to the overall success of a business.

What is a Security Guard?

A security guard is a trained professional employed to protect people, property, premises and assets from threats such as theft, vandalism, unauthorised access, violence and other security risks.

The role of a security guard can vary from guarding assets, checking id’s on entry, patrolling restricted areas, preventing unauthorised access, responding to incidents, preventing incidents, concierge, CCTV monitoring, creating a safe environment, protecting the public, meeting legal requirements and much more.

In the UK, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the industry and security guards are required to hold a valid SIA Licence. Holding an SIA Licence provides assurance that the security guard has been vetted and is trained and qualified to effectively carry out their duties.

Business Benefits of using Security Guards

Investing in professional security guards can provide significant benefits to a businesses.

A visible security presence helps deter theft, vandalism, anti-social behaviour and violence, while providing a rapid response when incidents occur.

Trained security personnel can protect customers, staff and property, manage crowds and entry points and deal with difficult situations before they escalate. Having security in place not only helps business operations to run smoothly but it also brings a sense of safety and confidence to guests and visitors.

By seeing competent and licenced security guards on duty, the risk of an incident happening decreases and visitors can relax more and enjoy their time.

Building a reputation as a good place to work, visit and spend your time is critical and having competent security guards in place significantly helps towards achieving this.

By investing in security guards, you can gain the business benefits of:

• Making customers feel welcome and safe
• Supporting customer service
• Visual deterrent
• Trained and competent officers’ responding to and reducing misbehaviour etc.
• Securing your premises, assets and more
• Building the brand reputation amongst staff and customers.

Find out more about the benefits of door supervision by visiting our website.

How County Security can help 

With over 40 years in UK Security, we are nationwide specialists in security guarding and provide Security Guards to a wide range of clients and industry sectors.

Our Security Guards are deployable 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with services tailored to meet customer requirements.

Our Security Guards are licensed by the Security Industry Authority SIA, hold Valid First Aid at work certificates, highly trained, presentable and personable.

Speak with our experts today for further information and for a free, no-obligation quotation.

 

Security plays a critical role in our everyday lives in helping to keep us safe and mitigating new and emerging threats. 

Whether it’s preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas, ensuring public safety at events or guarding assets, security has an ever-increasing importance in today’s society where crime is on the rise. 

Security also brings confidence to business owners and investors along with giving peace of mind to the general public. 

Here in this blog post, we explore the range of security services offered by security providers such as County Security and the benefits that they bring to organisations both large and small. 

An Introduction to Security Services

Security services encompass a wide range of measures designed to mitigate risks, respond to threats and protect the public and organisations. 

These services are provided by professional security firms and can be tailored to individuals, businesses or public institutions. Security services aim to deter criminal activity, protect, provide confidence and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

With the growing complexity of security challenges, security providers offer advanced technology, highly trained personnel and bespoke solutions. 

Security Services

Security providers offer a range of services that cater to different industries and the severity of the risks that they face.  

Here’s an overview of some of the most common security services:

Manned Guarding

• Trained security officers are deployed on-site to provide a physical presence, ensure compliance and deter unauthorized access, theft or vandalism.
• Security guards are commonly used in hospitality settings, public spaces, retail and industrial sites. 
• Security guards may perform access control, patrolling and emergency response duties.

Mobile Patrols 

• Mobile patrols involve security personnel conducting routine checks of locations within a designated area.
• Mobile patrols are often used for organisations with multiple sites and in residential areas. 
• They often provide a cost-effective and practical solution for those that don’t require a full-time security presence but still need regular monitoring.

CCTV Monitoring and Surveillance

• CCTV systems are installed to help monitor activity from a distance.
• CCTV cameras are often placed near restricted areas such as on construction sites and event arenas. 
• It provides an efficient method of monitoring and protecting key areas and the footage can be used as evidence in a court of law.

Access Control Systems

• Providers implement systems to regulate entry into buildings, rooms or specific areas.
• You may often see this implemented in hospitals and schools. 
• Technologies include keycard access, biometric scanners and automated turnstiles.

Event Security

• Security stewards ensure the safety of attendees, staff and property during events.
• Services include crowd control, VIP protection, bag checks and emergency response. 
• Event stewards play a key role in vetting those entering the premises, checking bags and responding to emergencies. 

Alarm Response and Key Holding

• Security companies hold keys to a client’s property and respond to alarms when triggered.
• This minimizes the risk to the property owners or staff and particularly valuable for when properties are vacant.  

Close Protection and VIP Security

• This specialized service involves protecting individuals who may be at risk due to their high-profile status.
• Close protection officers, also known as bodyguards, ensure the personal safety of clients at all times.

Risk Assessment and Consultancy

• Security providers assess vulnerabilities and recommend strategies to mitigate risks.
• This service is often the first step before implementing a security plan.

Dog Security 

• K9 security services provide an extra level of deterrent at more complex settings. 
• This service can include a sniffer dog and its handler searching for drugs on entry at festivals or a patrol dog patrolling the premises of a high-profile site. 
• Security dogs should be trained in accordance with NASDU standards.

 

The Importance of Security Services

Security services are vital in both personal and professional contexts. 

Here are some of the reasons why:

1. Crime Prevention: A visible security presence deters criminal activity, reducing the risk of theft, vandalism and violence.
2. Safety Assurance: Security measures help create a safe environment for employees, customers and visitors.
3. Crisis Management: Trained personnel can respond effectively to emergencies, minimising potential harm and damage.
4. Compliance and Liability: Many industries are required by law to maintain certain security standards and non-compliance can result in penalties.
5. Peace of Mind: Knowing that security measures are in place allows individuals and organisations to focus on their core activities without constant worry.

 

Choosing the Right Security Provider

When selecting a security provider for your organisation, it’s essential to consider their experience, reputation and your requirements. 

Choosing a provider who holds accreditations such as the Approved Contractor Scheme which is regulated by the Security Industry Authority provides confidence that the service you will receive has been independently verified and operates to industry best practices. 

How County Security Can Help 

Here at County Security, we are one of the United Kingdom’s leading security providers and are well renowned for our quality of service.

We hold SIA ACS Approved Contractor status and provide professional and bespoke security services to small and large organisations located across the UK. 

We pride ourselves on Honesty, Efficiency and Integrity. 

Speak with us today to see how we can help protect you and your business. 

We hope you enjoyed the read! 

Telephone: security@countyuk.com 

Email: 0203 886 1024 

Website: countysecurityuk.com

 

This County Newsletter will give you a closer insight into what we have been up to across April, May & June.

Here you can see jobs we have been on, sites we have secured and changes to County.

New Site – Search & Detection Dogs

County’s social media recently introduced ‘Training VS Real Life’. This showcases two pictures from the same services; however, one is from the training our team goes through, compared to one being from our team on the job. This newsletter shows you the training of a Security Dog then one of our Security Dogs and Handlers on a job.

Our expert security dog units are trained to NASDU standards, highly experienced within the field and hold valid SIA licences, giving you complete confidence that our security dog teams are fully trained to prevent and respond to criminal activity. To find out more about Security Dog services, click here – https://countysecurityuk.com/services/security-dogs/

 

 

Recognising Awareness Days and Months throughout the Year

Over the past 3 months, County have supported Mental Health Awareness Week in May, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month and Pride Month in June and Armed Forces Day towards the end of June.

Training VS Real Life

County’s social media recently introduced ‘Training VS Real Life’. This showcases two pictures from the same services; however, one is from the training our team goes through, compared to one being from our team on the job. This newsletter shows you the training of a Security Dog then one of our Security Dogs and Handlers on a job.

Our expert security dog units are trained to NASDU standards, highly experienced within the field and hold valid SIA licences, giving you complete confidence that our security dog teams are fully trained to prevent and respond to criminal activity. To find out more about Security Dog services, click here – https://countysecurityuk.com/services/security-dogs/

 

 

New Sites Secured!

Across the past 3 months, County have secured plenty of new sites. This has been down to our continued progress, trust and experience we have gained and all of County’s team working hard 24/7. These sites vary with the services we are providing them. Some of the services these sites are using are: K9 Dog Handlers, Static Guards & CCTV & Alarm Response. These sites were appealed and secured within the 24 hours of request.

 

 

2 Squatter Evictions in 2 Days!

2 Squatter Evictions in 2 days doesn’t stop County from delivering an excellent service. During May, our Eviction Response Team evicted 2 different groups of squatters in 2 different locations in London, regaining properties to our clients.

ERT have obtained a wealth of experience and professionalism over four decades, acting successfully on behalf of its clients nationwide. We are equipped to deal with a variety of issues and circumstances and have many years’ experience with the removal of unwanted persons from restricted areas.

 

 

County Protection Units

During April, County brought out our very own Protection Units. County Protection Units are an aesthetically pleasing, cost-effective and rapid deployment new addition, giving our clients sites complete protection no matter how big or small. We are able to offer our clients a unique solution with our Protection Units. These versatile UNITS communicate via the mobile network.

County have already installed these with clients asking for more each week! If County can provide you with our very own Protection Units, get in contact with us today.

Call us – 0203 886 1024
Email us – hub@countyuk.com

 

Follow our Social Media

County’s social media gives you everything you need to know about County plus more! We will give you posters about our services so you can learn more, pictures of jobs we have been on to give you an example on what our team get up too and loads more.

Click here to follow each of our social media pages!

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/countyukgroup/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/27453126/admin/feed/posts/
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@countyukgroup
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092246551965
Twitter – https://twitter.com/CountySecu
Threads – https://www.threads.net/@countyukgroup?hl=en

County Golf Day 2023

 

County hosted its annual charity golf day on 28th September 2023 at Redlibbets Golf Course with all money raised going to WE ARE BEAMS.

RCN: 1054129
Their mission is to provide comprehensive support services to children and young people with any form of physical, learning, or sensory impairment living in Dartford, Gravesham, Sevenoaks, and the surrounding areas. They aim to support the whole family through a range of services that directly benefit and assist those dealing with the challenges of raising a disabled child.

All our guest have a brilliant day with lots of money raised for WE ARE BEAMS.

In the evening we has Shaun Williamson host our charity auction to raise as much money as possible as well as hand out the trophies to the winners.

A great day overall and we can’t wait for our 2024 event!

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.