With 2011 already a distant memory, what does 2012 have in store for security professionals? Well, there’s IFSEC International, of course, and the all-new Global Security Summit… and likely a few threats in cyber space, too.
The New Year has begun brilliantly for MITIE Group, where CEO Ruby McGregor-Smith was awarded the CBE by Her Majesty The Queen. Congratulations, Ruby, on a tremendous achievement.
Also kicking off January in style is London Mayor Boris Johnson who, on Monday, took up residency as head of the UK’s first Office for Policing and Crime. Ensuring our capital city has enough front line police officers on the streets will be a key priority.
In another ‘UK first’, the City of London Police-run Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department has opened for business. Good job, too, because fraud’s increasing in scope. Thankfully, David Green CB QC will be doing all he can to arrest that trend.
In tandem with the latest court statistics supporting the Government’s case for justice reform, the BSIA has been lobbying HM Courts Service on the vital subject of data destruction.
It’s also great to see the Victims Services Alliance now forged by more than 30 charities and organisations.
Sadly, the cost of crime in the retail sector has soared to £1.4 billion, but there’s light on the horizon in the shape of Cardinal Group’s National Business Crime Solution.
Physical Security Information Management
We’ve a new blogger for you this year: CornerStone director Jon Roadnight will tackle a number of topics from the consultant’s perspective, and begins with an overview of Physical Security Information Management (or PSIM).
If you missed our recent webinar on this subject click here to view retrospectively, and do take a look at the integrator’s view of PSIM through the eyes of recognised subject expert Peter Houlis.
Speaking of blogs, be sure to check out the latest opinions from The Security Analyst and The Training Platform.
In the security solutions space, Key Note reports good times ahead for CCTV, the all-new ASIS-ISAF research suggests a continuing trend towards security convergence and BRE Global has issued a handy guide to systems procurement.
Additionally, make time to check out the new kit being offered by Axis Communications, G4S Technology, Samsung, CBC, American Dynamics and Human Recognition Systems.
You’ll also be interested to learn that Bowman Capital has backed a £32 million management buy-out at alarm specialist CSL DualCom.
Guarding and lone worker issues
In the guarding sphere, both G4S and ISS have recently energised substantial contracts… but the news isn’t so good for an unlicensed security director following an investigation by the Security Industry Authority.
Interestingly, a study by the Royal College of Nursing reveals the “true benefits” of lone worker solutions in the healthcare sector. UBM’s Security Portfolio will be focusing on this essential topic at the NEC in May.
Speaking of shows, event security organisation Showsec aired its highly professional opinions at the UK Festival Conference here in London.
Last but by no means least, the IFSEC International Security Industry Awards 2012 are now open for entries. Check out the categories and then take part!
Until next time!
Brian Sims
Editor
SMT Online
