Choosing a security supplier is a decision about trust. You are giving a company access to your people, your premises and often your keys. A few checks before you sign can save a great deal of trouble later.
1. Check the SIA Approved Contractor Scheme
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the private security industry in the UK. Its Approved Contractor Scheme is a voluntary scheme in which companies are independently assessed against a set of standards. Approved contractors are listed on the SIA online register, so you can verify a claim in a minute instead of taking it on trust. Secure FM is part of the scheme for security guarding, and you can check our entry on the SIA register.
2. Ask how individual officers are licensed
Guarding roles such as security officer and door supervisor are licensable activities. Ask how the company checks licences before deployment, and ask for names and licence details for the officers on your site. Individual licences can also be checked on the SIA register of licence holders.
3. Ask about screening and training
BS 7858 is the British Standard for the security screening of individuals employed in a security environment. It covers checks on identity, employment history and references. Ask whether all officers are screened, not only some, and what training they have for the role you need.
4. Look at management systems and insurance
Accreditations such as ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 45001 (health and safety) and ISO 14001 (environment) show that a company has management systems that are independently audited. Ask to see insurance certificates too. Secure FM is ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 accredited, certified to COP 119 and fully insured.
5. Ask what reporting and support you will get
Find out who your contact will be, how incidents are reported, how attendance is evidenced and what happens at 3am if you need help. Ask about a 24/7 control room and how quickly extra cover can be arranged.
6. Survey the site together
A good provider will survey your site and assess the risks before quoting. Be wary of a price given without anyone seeing the site. The survey should lead to written assignment instructions that your officers follow, and regular review meetings once the contract is running.
How Secure FM helps
Every Secure FM contract starts with a site survey and risk assessment, written assignment instructions and a dedicated contract manager. To talk through your requirements, call 0330 088 0991 or email info@securefm.ltd.