Recent tragic events, such as the terror attacks in Manchester and London, are a reminder of the dangerous situations that front line security personnel can be faced with in their day to day roles, often running towards danger to help as incidents unfold, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) trade body says.
With many music festivals and other large scale events due to take place over the summer, the importance of event security will be at the forefront of the agenda.
Discussing some of the elements that event organisers should consider, Andrew Murphy, Managing Director of contract stewarding and event security company Eventsec said: “When reviewing security at events, purchasers should consider various factors prior to their decision. Many companies offer event security, however, many do not have the relevant experience or operational capacity to perform the role. It is very important that the organiser checks if the prospective company has appropriate insurance. It is also important that purchasers review the insurance cover and clarify with the underwriters as to what insurance is in place, and whether it covers events and issues such as wilful acts, front of stage and ejection.”
And talking about security personnel, Andrew added: “Events are complex and often have multi-layered security plans. It is important that the organiser, statutory agencies and the public, have confidence in the security provider. Often, cost is the most important factor to organisers, but in light of recent events, staff experience, training and the supporting management structure will help mitigate the impact of incidents and should help the procurement decision. The staff employed in Manchester during the recent attack should be commended, demonstrating immense bravery and resilience as the first responders in what was a truly awful situation.”
The BSIA believes it is important to recognise the efforts of the outstanding personnel that work within the industry, going above and beyond the call of duty every day. Hence at the association’s annual lunch are presented the Security Personnel Awards, a fixture in the BSIA calendar for 19 years now. The awards are presented on both a regional and national level across five categories: Service to the Customer, Best Team, Outstanding Act, Best Use of Technology and Best Newcomer. Each year (pictured, courtesy of the BSIA, some of the 2016 winners), the BSIA is inundated with nominations, from literally saving lives to being instrumental in police investigations, demonstrating just how committed and admirable security personnel are.
This year’s BSIA annual lunch on July 12 is at a new location, the Grand Connaught Rooms in London. This year also marks the association’s 50th Anniversary. Speaking at the event will be the journalist and BBC broadcaster, Andrew Neil, named Journalist of the Year 2013 by Britain’s Political Studies Association and one of the 500 most influential people in the UK by Debrett’s in 2015. Visit https://www.bsia.co.uk/events.aspx.
