The security contractor First Response Group (FRG) reports that it’s been doing security at the University of Oxford’s Covid-19 research site. FRG, a member of the ACS Pacesetters, says it was recommended after work for the University during the first national lockdown in spring 2020.
The Covid-19 Oxford Vaccine Trial is run by the University’s Jenner Institute and the Oxford Vaccine Group clinical teams, and with multiple study sites across the UK and abroad, including a temporary research installation on the University grounds. After a site risk assessment, FRG recommended a 24/7 manned security detail; of three security officers during the day and two at night, for protection for the trial patients, research staff and the clinical data.
FRG’s SIA-licensed officers cover entrances and exits through the facility day and night. Officers also see distancing measures are followed, challenge anti-social behaviour and monitor the area for anything suspicious. The guard firm brought in a dedicated site supervisor providing a senior level contract presence on-site Monday to Friday. The site supervisor acts as the main onsite point of contact for the University.
Oto Velička, Senior Buildings and Facilities Manager, at the University of Oxford, said: “I would like to thank First Response Group for the outstanding quality of service they provide for our COVID-19 vaccine trial at the University of Oxford. When we approached them asking for support, their management team immediately engaged with us on a highly professional level and was able to scope, suggest and implement a made-to-measure solution perfectly suiting our needs.
“Their onsite team is highly competent, professional, cooperative and with a comprehensive understanding of our business needs and sensitivity of our activity. They have proven over and over that we can rely on them with all our security needs, bringing complete peace of mind to our operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Simon Alderson, First Response Group CEO, said: “Without question, this has to be one of the most high-profile security operations we have been involved in, one of world-wide importance. Being chosen to support the University of Oxford in this clinical trial is a ringing endorsement of FRG, and a clear demonstration of our leading status within the UK security sector.
“It is an honour to have played a part in ensuring the security of the vaccine, staff and trail patients in the lead up to its national roll out.”
About First Response Group
Founded in 2007 by directors Jamal Tahlil, and Edgar Chibaka, FRG provides security, fire and facilities management services to the public and private sectors. Visit https://www.firstresponsegroup.com/.
