When I made my first speech as chairman of the Association at last month’s Annual Luncheon and Awards, a topic I felt compelled to address – given the timing – was the tragedy that unfolded on 7 July 2005 in central London. The suicide bombings in the Capital on that fateful day demonstrated the critical role played by the private security industry – alongside the emergency services – in protecting the well-being of our society.

In the face of great adversity, many operatives from the security sector exhibited tremendous courage and professionalism. One security officer, for example, risked life and limb to re-enter the London Underground tunnel network in order to help the victims of the bombings, while others helped administer First Aid and establish a temporary hq for the emergency services (see our News Special this month).

In addition to the role played by security officers, we should not, of course, neglect the hours of CCTV footage that helped to piece together the awful events of 7/7. Crucially, that footage also assisted the police to track down those involved in the attempted bombings some two weeks later.

One element which really stood out was the quality of the images made available to the police when compared with those from one other horrific and high profile case involving CCTV – the Jamie Bulger murder investigation some 13 years ago. This really underlines how far the industry has moved forward during the intervening period.

It’s also interesting to note that vital evidence was provided not only by static CCTV solutions but also by mobile systems. All of which, to the best of my knowledge, were designed and manufactured by British companies. We can be justifiably proud of the contribution made by BSIA Members in this technologically-advanced sector.

If there is anything positive we can take from 7/7 it is that, in Britain, we are better placed than perhaps any other country to respond to (and prevent) future incidents.

Source

SMT

Postscript

Adam Wiseberg is chairman of the British Security Industry Association