In a rapidly evolving security landscape, the need to adapt is urgent, argues Ian Pugh, pictured, Director, PAL Protect Consultancy, Anchor Group Services.
The security landscape is changing rapidly, and property owners must adapt or risk leaving their assets exposed. With 40 years of experience in the field, I’ve witnessed first-hand how a lack of security awareness by some property owners can put people and property at risk. Here are some of my top tips for more forward-thinking asset managers:
1. Security as strategic investment
Many people still view security as a cost centre rather than a strategic asset. This shortsighted thinking is dangerous. Effective security enhances property value, improves tenant satisfaction, and mitigates significant risks. One client avoided a £50,000 HVAC system failure through proactive security measures. Another client is saving significant sums of money by engaging with PAL Protect technology experts who are supporting the client through the process of upgrading their CCTV system. This support is ensuring that the client is supported fully through the process from the creation of the scope to the scoring of the tenders and then project managing the installation. In my experience
I have seen organisations purchasing technology systems without a clear understanding of what they are purchasing and without applying the necessary due diligence to the process from selection through to installation. This approach results in increased costs to try and rectify issues which could have been prevented at tender stage and also an increased risk to the asset through a system which operationally doesn’t provide the necessary risk mitigation and asset protection that it should.
2. Technology integration
While human expertise remains essential, technology integration is no longer optional. Remote monitoring capabilities can reduce on-site staffing without compromising safety. Our blended approach has helped clients save up to 30 per cent on service costs while improving overall security. Too many security companies in my experience focus on the contractual manned guarding hour and do not look at the best solution for the client by not having the capability to integrate technology into their service offering or the strategic mindset to accept a reduction in manned guarding turnover. Anchor Group Services have the in-house expertise and capability to fully integrate technology into the manned guarding service and deliver savings whilst not increasing risk to the client.
3. Threat assessments reveal risks
Many properties have never undergone a comprehensive threat assessment. PAL Protect our in-house consultancy division has the capability to deliver comprehensive security advice directly to our contractual clients as part of our contractual service offering. When being awarded a new contract for a high-profile corporate client in central London a comprehensive building threat assessment was provided as part of the front of house manned guarding service. This was the first time the client had ever received a threat assessment from any of their previous security providers. Once completed this threat assessment provided the client with a clear understanding of the security risks to their premises and a detailed action plan and ongoing support to mitigate these risks and enhance the security of their premises.
4. Protect Duty
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill will soon become law, placing new responsibilities on property owners. Organisations must be prepared in monitoring the progress of the bill and once it becomes law, understand how the new legislation will affect their premises and what support they may need to help prepare them for when the law is in place and compliance to it is required. PAL Protect is eagerly awaiting details of the legislation so we can support our clients who operate in the Publicly Accessible Locations in complying with the new law.
5. A braver approach
The security industry needs to be braver in promoting the professionalism of the industry and stop the continual race to the bottom on pricing and accepting lower profit margins. Property owners who understand the importance of protecting their properties and evidence that their properties are being managed safely and effectively should see the importance of purchasing a professional security service based on quality and not price.
About the author
Ian Pugh has 40 years of experience in the security and facilities management sector. He has held senior positions, including Group Head of Security, where he designed and implemented comprehensive security strategies for in-house and contracted teams. Previously Deputy Chair of the Crowded Places Business Information Exchange, Ian did work with NaCTSO and Home Office Homeland Security on counter-terrorism initiatives. He is a member of the Revo Security Committee, contributing to best practice guidance and legislative updates for the retail and placemaking sectors. Ian has led large-scale security operations, including managing over 1,000 security officers at Bilfinger Europa and overseeing security strategies for 21 shopping centres across the UK and Spain as Head of Security at intu. Since 2020, he has provided consultancy services to major retail and corporate clients and now serves as Director of PAL Protect Consultancy with Anchor Group Services. Visit https://www.anchorgroupservices.co.uk/.
