The BSIA has welcomed publication of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation Report on visible security patrols in residential areas.
Speaking exclusively to SMT about the report, BSIA chief executive David Dickinson commented: "Private security officers can play an important role in reducing low-level anti-social behaviour. They're not carrying out police work and nor should they, but they can work in positive relationships with the police and support them in their overall objective of reducing crime and disorder."
Dickinson added: "We're working closely with the Security Industry Authority to ensure that there's serious debate on the issues raised in this report. Licensing is a crucial stage in this process, as licensed security officers will be trained in standard competencies as well as being subject to a rigorous criminal records checking procedure."
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation Report highlights some inconsistencies in the way that agencies work together in this area. It also emphasises the need for clear standards and accountability such that the public is reassured by the presence of Wardens and other patrolling officers – whether they be employed by the police, Local Authorities or private sector security companies.
IFSEC Security Industry Award Winners for 2004
QinetiQ won the overall product award at this year's IFSEC Security Industry Awards, organised by the BSIA and CMP Information (publisher of SMT).
QinetiQ's Stable Eyes electronic video stabilisation system uses the very latest image processing technology to improve the operational performance of high zoom surveillance cameras by removing camera 'shake' (and thereby helping to enhance system performance under the more inclement types of weather conditions).
Five other winners were also announced at the Gala Awards Dinner held at the Hilton Metropole Hotel in Birmingham on Monday 10 May. iOmniscient was rewarded for its IQ-180 surveillance system which can automatically detect any number of suspicious objects left in busy venues, while Panasonic won out for its BM-ET300 iris recognition system.
Synectics received an award for the SynergyMobile (a handheld monitoring system which extends the operational effectiveness of Control Rooms by allowing operators to relay camera images to users in the field). TDSI won for Optica (an innovative proximity reader and keypad combination), while WebWayOne collected an accolade for its IP Security Management System.
'Why Security?' A new guide to careers in the industry
'Why security?' is a new careers guidance document aimed at encouraging individuals to consider a job in the security industry. Launched at IFSEC 2004, it takes a close look at what it's really like to work in the sector, and why this can be an exciting career choice.
With regulation expected to create a significant recruitment challenge, the booklet places particular emphasis on factors that could attract newcomers to the industry, such as the sheer variety of security work available, regular training and flexible working hours.
The initiative is backed by JobCentre Plus, the BSIA, SITO and the Security Industry Authority. Following its launch, the guide will now be distributed to JobCentres nationwide, and promoted at jobs fairs and industry events.
Copies are available direct from the BSIA. Telephone 01905 21464 for further details.
Code of Practice launched on electric security fences
A new Code of Practice for Electric Security Fences was launched at IFSEC 2004 as a direct result of collaboration between the Fencing Contractors' Association, the Electric Security Fencing Federation and the BSIA.
During the past decade there has been an increasing number of electric security fence installations in the UK, and the safety of both system installers and end users has become a major concern.
With this in mind, the new Code of Practice addresses the specification and quality of manufactured products. It also provides client guidance on the selection of installation companies that, by their compliance with this standard, possess the ability to design, install and maintain an electric security fence system.
The Code of Practice – 'Electric Security Fences: Design, Installation and Maintenance' (PAS 47) – has been devised over the past three-years in consultation with manufacturers, installers and Government departments.
Source
SMT
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