NSI unveils “extensive programme” for IFSEC and FIREX International 2022

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) has announced an extensive programme of activity at IFSEC and FIREX International to ensure that installers/integrators and those interested in gaining third party certification have plenty of reasons to attend and visit Stand IF4050 at London’s ExCeL.

The UKAS-accredited certification body for the security and fire safety sectors will once again have a significant presence at IFSEC International and is encouraging those attending to take full advantage of the expertise on offer to visitors.

On the first two days of IFSEC International (ie 17 and 18 May) at 2.00 pm, the NSI will host an informal 30-minute session on-stand for security system and/or fire detection and alarm installers interested in becoming NSI approved such that they can find out about the application process.

Max Linnemann, the NSI’s director of certification services, will give an insight into key things you need to know when you apply, the due diligence process and eligibility criteria and how to ensure your application progresses as quickly as possible by avoiding the common mistakes.

Installers are invited to attend these sessions. No pre-booking is required.

‘Boardroom Talks’

For companies already holding approval with the Inspectorate, the NSI is joining forces with IFSEC International to host ‘Boardroom Talks’, an hour-long session taking place on Tuesday 17May at 11.30 am. This runs on the South Gallery in Room S13. Refreshments and luncheon is being provided for attendees. With an agenda curated specifically for senior leaders, the session will cover two specific topical business issues:

Changes in Procurement Rules, Outsourcing Services and Social Value

(Presenter: Jo Kenny, commercial lead at the Crown Commercial Service)

Meet the Sustainability Challenge: How to Embed Social Value and Net Zero

(Presenter: Sunil Shah, founder of Acclaro Advisory)

NSI-approved companies wishing to attend the ‘Boardroom Talks’ are requested to register in advance by sending an e-mail to marketing@nsi.org.uk Places will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

FIREX International 2022

Visitors attending FIREX International on Wednesday 18May are invited to join John Davidson, the NSI’s approval schemes manager (systems), who will present on the subject of ‘Fire Safety in Your Building: The Most Common and Serious Issues Facing Fire Risk Assessors’. This conference session runs at 11.15 am in the Fire Protection Association’s InfoZone Theatre.

The highly-respected Engineers of Tomorrow Competition for security and fire installer apprentices will once again be a key feature at this year’s event. Now part of WorldSkills (with the final taking place in November), apprentices will compete to demonstrate their technical abilities and understanding in front of their peers and industry colleagues in order to secure a place in the final.

NSI auditors will again be part of the adjudicating team, providing independent appraisal of those competing. The NSI encourages all visitors to ExCeL to support the industry’s future engineers and watch them in action.

‘Cash’, the NSI’s very much loved Turkmenian Eagle Owl, will be at IFSEC on Tuesday 17and Wednesday 18May. The NSI is encouraging visitors to ‘Swoop in for a Snap’ with ‘Cash’. Those who share their photos on social media and tag the NSI on Twitter or LinkedIn will receive a free gift on the day.

Compelling programme

Richard Jenkins, CEO at the NSI, stated: “IFSEC’s presence in the industry calendar is always greatly anticipated. Despite the pandemic forcing a break since the last in-person IFSEC back in 2019, we’re delighted to see the show return with such a compelling programme that brings the industry together.”

Jenkins added: “We look forward to welcoming industry colleagues old and new to our stand and to partnering with IFSEC in the ‘Boardroom Talks’, which we are jointly hosting for NSI approved companies.”

Visitors attending IFSEC International are invited to a Reunion Drinks Party taking place at Indigo at The 02 from 6.30 pm on Tuesday 17May. Complimentary drinks will be served on entry. Access is via the Emirates Air Line cable car.

*Register here to attend IFSEC International and its co-located events FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo, The Facilities Show and Intelligent Building Europe

National Security Inspectorate makes final preparations for The Security Event 2022

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is in the process of making final preparations for The Security Event, which takes place from 5-7 April at the NEC in Birmingham. The specialist certification body for the security and fire safety sectors will be sharing important updates on industry standards with professional installers and integrators and also taking the opportunity to discuss specific queries on a one-to-one basis on Stand L20 in Hall 3.

Installers are invited to visit the NSI’s stand and spend some time learning how more than 2,000 companies across the UK are benefiting from the NSI serving as their not-for-profit, specialist certification body, helping them to improve their business’ performance.

Advisors will be on hand to explain the straightforward application process, costs and timescales.

NSI approved companies and invited guests attending the show on Tuesday 5 April will also be attending a private drinks reception taking place at 3.30 pm.

Matthew Holliday, the NSI’s director of approval schemes, and John Davidson (approval schemes manager for systems), will both be presenting in the Fire and Security Installer Theatre. Holliday will talk about ‘BS 8418:2021 for Detector-Activated Surveillance Systems – The Game Changer For Police Response’ (Tuesday 5 April at 2.00 pm) and ‘Cyber Security: Are Security Systems Affected?’ (Wednesday 6 April at 11.15 am).

John Davidson will be talking about ‘Fire Risk Assessments and Evacuation Alert Systems – A Certification Body’s Perspective on Demonstrating Competence’ (Thursday 7 April at noon). 

Holliday will also be participating in the opening panel session in The Security in Practice Theatre at 10.30 am on Tuesday 5 April, with the subject matter being ‘The State of the Industry: What are Today’s and Tomorrow’s Priorities?’

Continual improvement

NSI CEO Richard Jenkins commented: “Continual improvement is one of the most effective ways in which to raise standards within the security sector and we look forward to sharing knowledge and expertise at The Security Event in Birmingham. It promises to be a lively and informative three days for UK installers, showcasing the latest technologies, products, services and insights. Our own presentations have been carefully considered to give installers the latest information on topical subjects. We very much look forward to meeting industry contacts old and new.”

*Register for free tickets

*Find out more about The Security Event and co-located events

The NSI’s reach spans the four nations of the UK and Eire. It counts premium local providers as well as the UK’s premier security and fire safety providers among its clients.

The organisation delivers a robust and continuous audit regime of approved companies through a dedicated team of in-house experts to verify compliance with relevant British and European Standards, Codes of Practice and certification schemes developed by industry bodies and associations.

End users who choose to contract with NSI approved companies can be assured of security and fire safety services that will be delivered to the highest standards by businesses committed to quality and continual improvement. 

NSI outlines partnership with Nineteen Group for The Security Event 2022

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is once again an official Event Partner of The Security Event and NSI experts are preparing to share important standards updates with professional installers and integrators throughout the show, which takes place from 5-7 April at the NEC in Birmingham.

The Security Event brings together over 200 exhibitors, providing an ideal opportunity for the industry to connect in person and keep up-to-date with the very latest technologies, products, services and insights.

NSI CEO Richard Jenkins commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with The Security Event again in what promises to be a lively and informative three days where visitors can experience innovative technology, learn from educational content, share insights and network.”

The National Security Inspectorate is once again taking part in The Security Event at the NEC

Jenkins continued: “Significant changes are taking place within the UK’s security sector, from the digital All-IP migration through to revisions in visual alarm confirmation and the ever-evolving cyber security environment. Whether installers are looking to take their first steps into gaining third party certification or wish to meet our team for expert guidance on the current standards, all are invited to visit our stand.”

Further, Jenkins affirmed: “Buyers of security and fire safety services are also actively encouraged to come and learn more about the importance of choosing NSI approved companies and the reassurance provided by the ongoing audit programme to which they would then commit.”

The NSI team will be on Stand L20 in Hall 3.

Fire and Security Installer Theatre

The NSI has been heavily involved in formulating the conference programme for the Fire and Security Installer Theatre and, indeed, some of the organisation’s representatives will be delivering a series of engaging sessions.

‘BS 8418:2021 for Detector-Activated Surveillance Systems – The Game-Changer for Police Response’ (Matthew Holliday, director of approval schemes, NSI). Tuesday 5 April. 2.00 pm

This presentation will highlight key drivers behind the latest edition of BS 8418, the standard for monitored CCTV systems capable of summoning a police response

‘Cyber Security – Are Security Systems Affected?’ (Matthew Holliday, director of approval schemes, NSI). Wednesday 6 April. 11.15 am

This will be a thought-provoking session on the need for cyber security in the security and fire sectors, considering not only the installing/maintaining organisation, but also products and touch points with the customer.

‘Fire Risk Assessment and Evacuation Alert Systems – A Certification Body’s Perspective on Demonstrating Competence’ (John Davidson, approval schemes manager for systems, NSI). Thursday 7 April. Noon

Following the publication of Dame Judith’s Hackitt’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ report and the ongoing Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry, there has been a hugely increased focus on the competency of contractors, and particularly so those contractors whose work could affect the fire integrity of – or life safety within – a given building. This session focuses on how third party certification can help to demonstrate competency.

*Find out more about The Security Event and its co-located events

**Register online for free tickets to attend The Security Event 2022 at https://rfg.circdata.com/publish/TSSES22/?source=TSENSI

Bold Communications joins Dahua Eco Partner Programme

Monitoring platform provider Bold Communications has joined Dahua Technology’s ECO Partner Programme which is designed to create a closer integration and development relationship between Dahua and technology providers, with those parties involved working to deliver an integrated monitoring solution for commercial Alarm Receiving Centres and private Control Rooms. 

Security solutions typically require technology from more than one manufacturer. An integrated system will often incorporate legacy equipment, new technology and multiple product types. In the Control Room, a tool is needed to process the interaction between devices and present information – and tasks – to the operator in a clear and simple interface. This requires high level system design and co-operation and the ECO Partner Programme provides a platform for the process.

“Interoperability is key for the monitoring business,” stated James Wang, Dahua’s vice-president and general manager for the business in the UK and Ireland. “Together with our technology partners, we are driven to develop more comprehensive solutions for the industry. The ECO Partner Programme not only focuses on technical enhancements, but also offers our business partners the opportunity to explore our ecosystem and network with vendors with compatible solutions.”

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Bold Communications software supports compliance with industry standards for alarm and CCTV monitoring, using video verification to filter false activations and support an appropriate response. Alarm events can be generated by Dahua analytics or a third party detection device and received by Gemini with live and pre-alarm video. With false, nuisance and duplicate alarms filtered out and all information, video and handling tasks presented in a single display, the operator can then train their entire focus on handling genuine alarm activations.

Specialist security services

Integrated Visual Protection, a National Security Inspectorate Gold-accredited Alarm Receiving Centre in London, provides specialist security services throughout the UK. The Bold Gemini platform enables Integrated Visual Protection to provide a range of alarm and CCTV monitoring services, with Dahua being a popular option. 

Operations director Piers Brown commented: “To deliver a premium monitoring service for our clients means that our operations have to be robust, seamless and efficient. Combining high-quality CCTV images with fully-featured Alarm Receiving Centre software helps us to meet that standard.”   

Bold Communications’ integration development and design is driven by new technology and the needs of the monitoring sector. Becoming an ECO Partner with Dahua Technology is another important step forward in that process.   

*Further information is available online at www.boldcommunications.co.uk and info@boldcommunications.co.uk

First Response Group listed in Sunday Times ‘10 Fast-Track Ones to Watch’

Yorkshire-based security and facilities service provider the First Response Group is featured in the latest Sunday Times ‘10 Fast-Track Ones to Watch’ listed. The business has been recognised as one of the companies set to grow rapidly and shows the potential to secure its place in the ‘Fast Track 100’ in the future.

Businesses are identified based on factors such as past sales, growth forecasts, international expansion and external investment. This summer, the Leeds-based company competed a £6 million refinancing agreement, allowing it to continue the strong growth it has experienced over the last few years.

A series of targeted acquisitions – coupled with recent high-profile tender wins in the insurance, corporate and construction sectors which accelerated the company’s growth – triggered the need to increase available working capital for business continuity and future investment.

Founded back in 2007 by directors Jamal Tahlil and Edgar Chibaka, First Response Group provides security, fire and facilities management services for customers including Aldi and the NHS. Sales this year have risen by 51% to hot a total of £18.6 million.

Simon Alderson, CEO at the First Response Group, said: “It’s an honour to be named as one of The Sunday Times’ ‘10 Fast-Track Ones to Watch’. The extraordinary growth we’ve seen over the past few years has firmly established the First Response Group as a rising star in the security industry, and this achievement recognises the dedication and hard work shown by our entire team.”

Alderson added: “This summer’s funding, coupled with our mission to provide the best service and innovation possible by cultivating a culture of employee inclusion and happiness, will continue to position First Response Group as a leader in the security and FM solutions markets.” First Response Group holds the coveted National Security Inspectorate Guarding Gold accreditation and, as an Approved Contractor Scheme Pacesetter, is ranked in the Top 15% of firms registered on the Security Industry Authority’s Approved Contractor Scheme.

Frocester Group attains prestigious National Security Inspectorate Gold award

Frocester Group has joined an elite group of companies that have met the most rigid and stringent standards for security and fire system design, installation, and maintenance. The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold award that has just been bestowed upon the Tetbury-based business represents months of hard work by the fire and security teams and demonstrates the robustness and commitment of the Group itself to offer customers the highest standards.

Frocester Group security director Tom Allerton commented: “We’re very proud of the whole team to have achieved this landmark and proud to give our customers the assurances this award brings as we continue to offer and provide the very best levels of service. The NSI Gold award will help Frocester Group continue to grow and provide satisfaction and confidence for our customers.”

Tom Allerton (left, security director) and James Joyce (fire director) of the Frocester Group

The NSI Gold award requires ISO 9001, the internationally-recognised quality management standard. Periodically reviewed to ensure technical requirements continue to meet the standard, the award covers the screening of individuals, intruder and hold-up alarm systems, CCTV, access control and fire detection and control systems. The award now sits alongside the Safe Contractor approved status gained by the Frocester Group’s security and fire divisions.

NSI launches e-Learning course on BS 7858:2019 for security screening

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) has announced the launch of a new eLearning course designed to help NSI-approved companies understand and apply the requirements of the revised Code of Practice BS 7858:2019 which focuses on the Screening of Individuals Working in a Secure Environment.

This introductory course is available to all who wish to enrol, but is particularly useful for screening administrators and controllers. Accredited by The Security Institute’s Continuing Professional Development scheme, the course includes guidance on information and documentation requirements, relevant legislation and regulatory requirements, the difference between personal opinion and fact and, importantly, the implications of non-compliance.

Upon completion of the course, learners will understand the reasons for screening, be able to assist in developing an effective screening process and also understand how to apply the requirements in practice. Each learner will receive a personalised Certificate of Completion.

Split into four parts, the eLearning course takes approximately two hours to complete. Learners may log in and out as many times as they wish, saving their progress to date each time.

Max Linnemann

Max Linnemann, head of certification services at the NSI, said: “We are very pleased to be able to offer this new eLearning course to our approved companies. The NSI is committed to helping companies keep on top of standards developments and widening their access to training. Our new eLearning course provides a cost-effective and convenient way of understanding the latest requirements of BS 7858:2019, which NSI-approved companies in the security systems and guarding services sectors need to be aware of.”

*Those who would like to find out more information about the course, pricing and how to enrol should contact Maxine Dent (training, facilities and events co-ordinator) by e-mail at maxine.dent@nsi.org.uk

Ten-plus NSI-approved companies shortlisted for 2020 OSPAs

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI), a sponsor of the 2020 UK Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs), has congratulated the 13 NSI-approved companies shortlisted by the Judging Panel for their achievements within the security industry. The OSPAs are part of a global awards scheme currently running in eight countries and designed to recognise and reward outstanding performance.

In total, the 13 NSI-approved companies have over 50 shortlisted nominations across multiple categories including Outstanding Contract Security Company, Outstanding Security Installer/Integrator and Outstanding Security Officer.

 

The judging is a rigorous and transparent process designed to recognise exceptional company and individual performance in the private security sector.

This year, the NSI’s involvement has extended to the OSPAs Thought Leadership Summit. This takes place on the afternoon of the Awards Ceremony on Wednesday 26 February in central London. It’s a further opportunity to hear the thoughts of high-profile speakers and debate key challenges in the private security sector, such as supply chain integrity and ways in which to address the rate of improvement in false alarms.

Richard Jenkins: CEO at the NSI

Richard Jenkins, CEO at the NSI, commented: “The UK OSPAs highlight Best Practice and recognise the achievements of companies and individuals alike within the private security industry. We’re delighted to see so many NSI-approved companies recognised for their outstanding performance and in so many categories. Our congratulations go to all of the finalists whose achievements have been recognised this year. We wish them every success tomorrow. The NSI’s sponsorship of events and awards reinforces our commitment to recognising outstanding performance and raising standards across the security business sector.”

*Only limited places are now available for the Thought Leadership Summit which begins at 11.15 am. Places can be booked for only £45 +VAT including luncheon, entrance to the conference and exhibition and all refreshments. Visit https://uk.theospas.com/summit2020/

NSI to showcase Associate Consultancy Programme at CONSEC 2019

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) has announced that it will be exhibiting for the first time at CONSEC, the Association of Security Consultants’ Annual Conference, which takes place on Thursday 3 October at the Radisson Edwardian Hotel, Heathrow. The NSI team on site will be showcasing the Inspectorate’s Associate Consultancy Programme (ACP) – an independent referral listing.

The NSI’s Associate Consultancy Programme enables consultants to use the NSI ACP logo once successfully completing their application for membership of the programme, and signals the professionalism of the business to organisations seeking consultancy.

The NSI conducts due diligence on each consultancy prior to acceptance for the programme, and thereafter on an annual basis.

“For any business in the sector considering an external consultancy service, the Associate Consultancy Programme is a good starting point with participating consultancies covering a wide range of security and fire safety-related services,” explained Richard Jenkins, CEO at the NSI.

*For more information on the NSI’s Associate Consultancy Programme access: https://www.nsi.org.uk/information-centre/information-for-consultancies/

**Companies wishing to source NSI Associate Consultancies can find out more at: www.nsi.org.uk/information-centre/nsi-associate-consultancies/

Kings Secure Technologies opens NSI Gold-accredited Technology Monitoring Centre

The Kings Secure Technologies Cat II, fully-NSI Gold accredited Technology Monitoring Centre securely monitors millions of events on a second-by-second basis. The company’s commitment to providing a comfortable, functional and industry-leading space for the well-being of operators, and the need to deliver on a continued quality of service promised to clients, meant that a refurbishment was an absolute must.

The revamped Technology Monitoring Centre is now open. There have been substantial cosmetic improvements, while the entire network has undergone a complete upgrade, with a new cloud telephony system at its heart. Operators can listen to, assess, record and process every alarm, guaranteeing the fastest possible response for customers in accordance with BS 5979.

Speaking about the refurbishment, Kings Secure Technologies’ Technology Monitoring Centre manager Eddie Atkins told Risk Xtra: “Our commitment to the well-being of our operators and to deliver the premium service we promise to our customers is of paramount importance to Kings. Our aim is to answer 95% of telephone calls within 20 seconds. With the new technology and working environment that we now have in the Monitoring Centre, our performance is just going to become stronger and stronger.”

Kings Secure Technologies is a technology-focused business that prides itself on leading with innovation and customer care. This investment in its Technology Monitoring Centre and colleagues is the latest step in its determined business approach.

*For more information visit www.kingsltd.co.uk