There are various yardsticks you can use to measure whether a security company is up to the task.
Of course, you might have been recommended by someone who has already used their services. But if you are scouting around and have no clear idea of who to select, there are various measurements you can use.
How long has the company been in business?
It’s worth checking to see how long the company has been trading.
Age isn’t everything and there are always talented up-and-coming companies in any line of work. That said, experience counts for much - especially in the security and fire alarm business. A well-run, financially stable organisation that has been around for many years, is a big plus point. You don’t want to be dealing with a ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ operator.
Engaging a company that is reliable, knows the industry inside out and can provide comprehensive advice about the most practical solution for your requirements (after a full site survey), should be your objective. They should install the equipment with minimum disruption, as well as offering a regular service and maintenance programme with a transparent tariff of all charges.
What services are provided?
Look for a company that offers a wide range of security and fire safety systems and services for both commercial and home security requirements, ideally incorporating:
Commercial Security: Intruder alarms; CCTV cameras, Access Control Solutions, Fire & Life Systems, Smoke Cloak Systems, Alarm Monitoring and Service and Maintenance.
Home Security: Intruder alarms, CCTV cameras, Access Control Solutions, Alarm Monitoring, Fire Detection and Alarm Systems and Service and Maintenance.
Do they have a modern outlook to innovation and technology?
If a company has been around for many decades, it’s a strong indication that they are well-up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry developments. They probably wouldn’t have survived otherwise! As a customer, this will help ensure that your home or business is equipped with modern state-of-the-art equipment, best suited to your specific security requirements. One size does not fit all, it’s a bespoke service that should be offered.
Does the company prioritise training and education?
Leading providers tend to put a premium on continuing training programmes for their staff – both for highly experienced engineers as well as apprentice-level trainees. In a fast-paced industry, staying at the forefront of innovation and design is essential for maintaining the highest professional standards.
What indication is there of maintaining regulatory compliance?
A top security firm will prioritise the implementation of rules, regulations and protocols surrounding security and fire safety, as well as advising on risk management and mitigation.
Before engaging any firm, check that they are certified by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI). This is the organisation responsible for certifying security and fire protection companies in the UK – of which Justice Fire & Security is a founding member.
For a business to have gained NSI approval, it means that it has complied with International, British and Industry Standards and Codes of Practice. An NSI hallmark is the top seal of approval for the UK’s security and fire safety industry.
NSI accreditation should provide the peace-of-mind that the company you are about to engage is technically competent, adheres to quality management systems and is run by reputable directors and managers, with relevant business experience.
As a further indication of credibility, quality and competence, check if the company is BAFE approved. BAFE has been the trusted register of quality fire safety organisations in the UK for forty years. It ensures that fire safety services are provided to national, independently certificated standards. Any company on the BAFE registers will have earned their spurs, having undergone audits from a UKAS Accredited Certification Body and achieved Third-Party Certification for one or more BAFE schemes.
The above benchmarks should provide you with all the reassurance to show that you have selected a reputable organisation – a sure sign that you’ll be entrusting your security and fire safety arrangements to a top company.
Justice Fire & Security have been installing commercial and home security systems throughout Birmingham and the wider West Midlands area for nearly 40 years. If you have any concerns about your current security and fire safety arrangements for your business premises or residence, call our main switchboard on 0845 468 9077.
