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Security
How to Hire a Good Event Security Company in London
11 Apr 2024

London is regarded as the number one city in the UK for hosting an event. From the range of venues to the sheer number of people, not to mention the city’s vibrant culture, bustling corporate scene and links to the arts, it’s no wonder that people opt for the capitol as the setting for their events. But with any gathering of people comes the responsibility of being able to ensure their safety and comfort during their time spent as your guest. This is where event security becomes paramount.  

If you’re in the dark when it comes to how event security companies operate and what hiring one entails, this blog will give you all of the information you need to make a confident decision.

What is event security?

The term event security covers a wide range of measures that can be put in place to safeguard an event. This includes protecting guests, staff, and assets. Trained security personnel are put in place to mitigate any potential risks, and use their training and technology to respond to any disturbances or threats that may occur. Crowd management, perimeter maintenance and surveillance all fall under the role of event security.

Why is it important?

Large gatherings present a wide range of opportunities for crime, dangerous activity and disorderly conduct to occur. This is especially true when there is alcohol involved. As an event organiser it is your responsibility to put appropriate security measures in place to protect your attendees, staff, and property. Doing so is not only beneficial for safety purposes, but also for the reputation and success of the event itself. 

Common event threats and risks

Some common threats that can occur at London-based events include: 

  • Violence – under the right circumstances any kind of altercation can quickly escalate to involving bodily harm and pose a risk to anyone in the vicinity. 
  • Theft and vandalism – criminals may target your event to steal or vandalise property. 
  • Terrorism – unfortunately, any large event in London can become a target for terrorist attacks. 
  • Medical emergencies – ranging from crushing crowds to fainting guests, medical emergencies can occur no matter the size of your event and require a swift response. 

How to plan for your security needs

You can’t hire the appropriate event security company without first understanding the exact security requirements of your event. Consider the following:

  • Do you have a comprehensive risk assessment in place? This should outline any possible threats to your event, from the criminal to the environmental or accidental. 
  • Decide which security measures best suit the risks you have identified. 
  • Considering the scale of your event and the number of guests, what size security team would be required to effectively mitigate any of the potential risks. 
  • Develop an emergency response plan for yourself and your staff that can be communicated among your team and your eventual security team. If you have any difficult with this, your hired security personnel should be able to help you create one.

Hiring your event security 

Finding the best fit for your event will come down to a wide variety of factors. There are plenty of event security companies to choose from in London, and it’s important that you find a company that understands the nature of your event and how you want it to be run. 

Take into consideration a company’s reputation and reviews – if they have a proven track record of providing stellar security for events of a similar nature to yours, they could be a good match. What technologies and security solutions can they provide? Some companies are better equipped than others, and a good company should be able to tailor their offerings to suit your event.  

Don’t be afraid to enter into discussions with multiple companies to get a good feel of what they are able to offer you. Ask to verify their certifications and licenses, request custom quotes, and see how responsive and open to collaboration they are.

Managing your security on the day

On the day of your event it’s quite likely that you will have a long list of things that require your attention. With the right preparation in place you should hopefully be able to leave anything security related to the experts you have hired.

In order to be able to relax when it comes to your security measures, make sure you do the following: 

  • Brief your security personnel and provide a detailed outline of their roles and responsibilities for the day, as well as any emergency procedures. 
  • Establish and maintain an open flow of communication between yourself and your security team. 
  • Decide how and when you would like information to be passed to you should anything suspicious take place; this is important not just for your peace of mind, but also that of the guests, who may not respond well to seeing security pull you aside. 

Best practices for securing your event

Here are our top tips for maintaining event security in London and making it easier for security personnel to keep your event running smoothly and the people in your care safe. 

  • Limit the entry and exit points to your event. This gives security staff fewer places they need to monitor and helps to make ticketing and ID chests clearer. 
  • Make sure your event is well-lit, or if this is not possible, that security staff have ways of being able to maintain visibility. 
  • Encourage your guests to report any suspicious behaviour, and make sure that guests can identify security staff in order to be able to do this. 
  • After your event, take note of what worked well and what needs to be improved for your next booking. 

Consider All Time Security

We wouldn’t be comfortable giving you this advice if we weren’t confident in our expertise. The experience and professionalism of All Time Security services mean that we are able to provide the highest standard of event security and allow our partners to focus on what has gone right instead of what might go wrong. For more information on the security services we can offer for your even in London, get in touch today. 

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Integrating Security Patrols with Local Law Enforcement: A Collaborative Approach

Visible and competent security services can make a world of difference in enhancing a feeling of safety in a workplace, event venue, accommodation or other public settings. When those security services are seen to be working alongside local law enforcement, it is even more of a comfort – and more off-putting to any would-be troublemakers. Let’s talk about how encouraging collaboration between your security patrol and law enforcement can provide mutual benefits for both organisations, and what you can do to foster a successful partnership. 

Why should collaboration be the goal?

It’s important to understand the context of the relationship between private security and public police forces in the UK. In recent times, private security firms have become more and more popular due to their versatility and specialisation. Meanwhile, public law enforcement has been facing difficulty due to challenges such as budget cuts and a concerning rise in crime rates 

Now that private security firms have the right kind of resources and training to hand, they are more equipped than ever to support (and be supported by) police forces in their shared goal of promoting public safety and preventing crime. This is preferable to the two forces being seen as opposing powers.

What benefits can you expect from integrating these agencies?

  • Enhanced public safety – the main goal of both private security and law enforcement should always be keeping people safe and protected. By working together to deter criminals, respond quickly to incidents and present a united front, public safety will benefit.  
  • Maximised resources – working together allows for the sharing of resources, whether this means personnel, intelligence, experience or equipment. This gives both teams a greater capacity to respond to any incidents that may arise. 
  • Improve information sharing and communication – by sharing information between each other, both security patrols and law enforcement will have a more comprehensive understanding of a situation and the potential threats to it. This makes decision-making easier and improves situational awareness. 
  • Collaborative responses to incidents – by being in a situation where they can respond to incidents as collaborative force, the risk of confusion or miscommunication is minimised. 
  • Increased deterrence – as always, there is safety in numbers. Security patrols and law enforcement working together serves as a very visible and intimidating deterrent to any criminals. 
  • More community engagement – public and private sectors being seen to work together with the shared goal of protecting the public is likely to encourage more community engagement for both forces, and build trust. 
  • Professional development  – joint training exercises and briefings, the sharing of skills and expertise, and the experience of working alongside each other is a great development opportunity for members of both forces. 

Where to start

Here are some of the key factors to consider when looking to integrate your private security patrol with local law enforcement. 

Defining roles and responsibilities

Your security personnel can only perform to the best of their ability when they have a clear understanding of exactly what is required of them in their role. Clarity regarding both the separate and shared responsibilities of security patrols and law enforcement is paramount to the seamless integration of their operations. Make sure protocols are well-defined and explain exactly how and when security personnel should escalate incidents to the police, and consider including transparent guidelines for interactions with law enforcement officers. By removing ambiguity, you enhance operational efficiency. 

Encourage the sharing of information

At a time when the sharing of information (both factual and false) is easier than ever, being able to effectively communicate data is essential to maintaining visibility in potentially dangerous situations. Protocols should be made clarifying how, when and why information is shared, for example CCTV footage, observations, or incident reports. Being able to leverage insights such as these in a collaborative way helps to strengthen collective responses to security threats. 

Make comprehensive response plans

All parties involved should know exactly how any emergency incident will be responded to. Plans should be made dictating clear procedures for a wide variety of possible incidents, as well as how incidents may escalate depending on the variables at play. Both parties should be agreed on the best practices and overall priorities when it comes to safeguarding lives and property. Failing to prepare these coordinate responses could have severe consequences.  

Challenges

Of course, the integration of two such forces isn’t without its challenges. Cultural and organisational differences across the two sectors can impede the creation of protocols, and issues surrounding legal liability and the sharing of information can hinder the defining of roles and flow of communication. It’s important that any joint ventures are built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect, and that the shared goal of public safety comes before and pre-existing biases. 

An example

Here is an example of how a security patrol and local law enforcement working together can prevent a crime that hasn’t yet been committed. 

In this scenario, a private security patrol is monitoring a busy shopping centre during peak weekend hours. Security personnel notice a group of individuals who appear to be loitering outside of and paying close attention to an electronics store. They appear to be making efforts to conceal things within their clothing, avoid the gaze of security personnel, and hide their faces. 

This potential threat is communicated to a designated law enforcement liaison, with detailed descriptions of the individuals and their behaviour. This information is then shared with nearby police units to coordinate a response. Joint surveillance is then made possible, and the individuals are intercepted as they attempt a smash and grab robbery. 

The sharing of information and joint response to the threat helped to prevent unnecessary harm, damage, and financial losses. 

Enhance your security

If you’re looking for security patrol services, of for more information on how you can encourage collaboration between your security personnel and local law enforcement, reach out to our All Time Security experts today.  

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Why Have a SIA company?
Why Every Hotel and Office Needs Reception Security
27 Feb 2024

Your reception area is the first line of defence against everything – visitors, guests and employees included. If a security breach is going to happen, the reception area is a hotspot for such violations. Safeguarding your premises has never been as important as in today’s risk-ridden world, which is why you must invest in reputable reception security

With the expert help of All Time Security, learn about the common misconceptions about reception spaces, why you need reception security and much more, below.

Common Misconceptions About Reception Spaces

Perhaps because they’re high-traffic spaces often monitored by CCTV, hotels and offices are unfortunately lured into a false sense of security about their reception areas. As a result, reception security personnel are overlooked and considered an unnecessary investment. After all, if your reception is a low-risk zone, how could they help? But, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Any reception space is certainly the first line of defence against unauthorised individuals, but also the protection of assets. Your reception desk may house classified documents, cash from guests, and even employees’ personal belongings. Adequate security is a must to keep these important items in safe hands. 

Additionally, many hotels and offices have a major misconception that reception security is actually limited in what they can do to protect the property. Of course, reception security is a niche, but we at All Time Security have a wide range of skills that we lend to the reception areas under our protection throughout the UK. This service doesn’t only involve a physical barrier – like a metal detector at the door – or the presence of suited-up personnel. From CCTV monitoring to security patrol and access control, we’re constantly on the lookout for threats to your business operations. The scope of what we’re able to do for you is therefore comprehensive, and not at all limited.

Rest assured, reception security is more imperative to the safety of your hotel or business office than you might think.

The Unique Security Needs of Hotels and Offices

Hotels and offices are very unique spaces in the commercial world – even if they are remarkably common across the UK! As such, they have unique security needs.

Hotels cater to such a wide demographic of guests and employees that their reception areas are a constant hub of comings and goings. They have a great responsibility to constantly monitor these guests and other miscellaneous visitors, whilst maintaining order in the reception area. Guest safety and privacy are of paramount concern. 

The security needs of office spaces are also distinct: employees, visitors and tradesmen are a daily occurrence, although (unlike hotels) their presence is often regular and unremarkable. Yet, this regularity lures businesses into a false comfort. Because office spaces are considered to be low-risk and secure, this is ironically often the reason that they’re not – security threats go unnoticed and regrettably enabled.

For both hotels and offices, they are unique in that they cater to diverse visitors with bespoke needs and expectations. Hiring reception security therefore has multiple benefits. Not only do you have personnel on-site that can aid in the day-to-day running of your business, but you’re also able to prevent unauthorised access to your property, manage potential threats, generate a welcoming and professional atmosphere, and have a fallback in case of emergency response and crisis management. 

At All Time Security, our reception security personnel are well-trained to manage and diffuse urgent situations. Emergencies like injury, violence, theft or vandalism can be immediately handled with effective visitor management protocols, a clear risk assessment and a thought-out response plan – features that can only be carried out by a security expert. 

When Reception Security is Crucial

As recently as 2022, over 4,500 allegations of violence and over 1,300 of public disorder occurred in hotels, motels and guesthouses. Corporate crime is also more common than most realise in office spaces, to the extent that the UK has implemented a new Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, though this is more related to theft. Violence and theft are both concerns that mar hotel and office spaces, particularly those without reliable reception security keep a close watch on their daily operations.

Reception security plays a crucial role in deterring undesirable, threatening behaviour in these busy spaces. Often, the presence of one or two personnel is enough to keep public disorder at bay and enhance your professional reputation. For hotels, 82% of guests would feel reassured in an accommodation accredited for security and safety. This reassurance holds great weight when considering customer loyalty and the smooth running of your business. 

Plus, as we’ve hinted at before if unruly visitors or offenders debate entering your hotel or office to cause trouble or steal, they’ll think twice with a security guard at the front door. In general, it is due diligence to implement security measures – however unnecessary they may seem to your operations at first – for any environment in close contact with the general public, and also with employees. 

A reception security guard can always help you out more than you’d think. They’re an undoubtedly crucial force to be reckoned with! 

Explore Your Options With All Time Security

If your hotel or business office has carried on without facing a security threat to date, you might be hesitant to make any changes to your security policies. But, we highly recommend evaluating and improving your current security measures regardless – the future is always in flux, and more security challenges are occurring and evolving every day. 

Rather than be caught up in the tide of new security threats and being unable to handle them with inappropriate response plans, stay ahead of the curve with All Time Security. We’re ready to offer companies throughout the UK further resources and assistance in developing their effective reception security strategies with our professional help. 

Contact All Time Security for more insight, today. 

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All-Time Security – Security Solutions for Local Businesses: Tailoring Services to Meet Oxfordshire’s Unique Needs

Local businesses in Oxfordshire are invaluable to the local economy, spurring employment and providing much needed goods and services. But, because local businesses often don’t consider ramping up their security like their conglomerate-level counterparts, they leave their assets and employees vulnerable. 

However safe you may consider your location in Oxfordshire to be, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. To this end, we at All Time Security are well-prepared to provide expert security solutions for local businesses in this area. Our security services are complete; from around-the-clock CCTV monitoring to door supervision and a concierge, our clients can depend on our expertise.

As one of the most reputable security companies in Oxfordshire, trust us to tailor our professional services to meet your business’s unique needs. In the meantime, read on for more information about potential security challenges in Oxfordshire, and how we help you nip these challenges in the bud before problems even arise.

What security challenges might your Oxfordshire business face?

There are a variety of security challenges that your Oxfordshire business might face, even when operations have been smooth sailing so far. Local businesses are often susceptible to theft, to the extent that 11% of UK business premises experience this crime more than once a day. Violence and anti-social behaviour may also be a concern, particularly if your business is open till the late hours. Read on for more security challenges that could disrupt the day-to-day running, and – beyond that – even the success of your business, below:

Employee Theft

As unpleasant as it is to consider, employees also pose an internal security challenge to a business. Theft is unfortunately commonplace, and if your business maintains a digital presence, the potential for data breaches is also strong. Implementing in-person and technological security measures is best to catch employee-related challenges before they become a detrimental concern.

Vandalism and Property Damage

Vandalism and property damage a major security concerns facing businesses in Oxfordshire – even if you implement recommended security measures like locks, biometric access, shutters, barred windows and more. Not only can security cameras help deter malicious vandals, but the tangible presence of security personnel acts as a more efficient deterrent.

Employee Safety Concerns

Local businesses in Oxfordshire have a responsibility to keep their employees safe. During their shift, employees face a variety of safety challenges, many of which are related to the handling of cash, managing customers, and fending off potential hazards like electricity and fire. Businesses without emergency exits, fire alarms, good lighting and reliable security personnel place their employees at exponential risk. 

Non-Compliance

There are various security and privacy regulations that local businesses must meet daily. Failure to implement certain security measures in your business – like CCTV monitoring or even appropriate shutters and locks – could not only lead to damage and theft of your property but various legal consequences. As a result. falling short of governmental regulations becomes a security challenge in more ways than one.

Unsecured Premises

Security companies in Oxfordshire exist to mitigate the dangers of unsecured business premises. If your local business has inadequate locks, poor lighting in vulnerable areas, weakened or inadequate fencing; these are vulnerabilities that can be exploited for criminal purposes. It is also worrying for employees who must close these premises on a night shift and opens up a host of legal concerns if a business were to be broken into after hours. 

The professionals at All Time Security have often advised on additional security measures to further secure Oxfordshire businesses.

How we can help you mitigate these security risks

Though the security challenges described above can sound very intimidating, and, for some local businesses in Oxfordshire, insurmountable to overcome, the team at All Time Security can absolutely help you mitigate these security risks. As an SIA-approved contractor – in all aspects of our staff, policies and procedures – we are perfectly equipped and trained to provide our Oxfordshire clientele with the following tailorable security solutions:

  • Concierge Services – The first point of contact between a customer and your business, our concierge security guards deliver a first-class service that involves supporting your customers with appropriate and professional assistance, and, significantly, halting potential security risks at the front door.
  • CCTV Remote Monitoring – When a significant in-person security presence may deter customers or your business is shut for the night, we offer 24/7/365 CCTV remote monitoring, operated in tandem with motion sensors and a direct link to manned guards and emergency services if a situation requires it.
  • Alarm Response & Key Holding – Our alarm systems are properly installed by experienced engineers, and when triggered, an on-duty alarm response security will immediately respond to the breach. We can also provide key holding in case of emergencies, and also if your business requires around-the-clock assistance. 
  • Manned Security Guards – Whether for door supervision or security patrol, we provide qualified and vetted manned security guards to keep your Oxfordshire business safe. This is suitable for businesses of all kinds; retail, corporate, industrial or even a construction site.

We are also well-known for our retail security services, corporate and commercial services, event security, educational campus care and more. Whatever local business you operate, we have the preventative measures required to deter and eradicate all potential security challenges. Our client satisfaction across Oxfordshire and beyond testifies to this. 

The benefits of choosing a local security provider

At All Time Security, we understand Oxfordshire’s unique needs and challenges as a local security provider. We know the area and the community well and have always made sure our employees are trained in the latest security industry standards. This ensures we can meet Oxfordshire’s distinct requirements with the utmost care, efficiency and adaptability; rest assured, our personnel work tirelessly to raise your security measures to the highest degree.

An often-overlooked benefit of choosing a local security provider from the security companies in Oxfordshire is also our potential to deliver quick response times in case of emergencies. Though part of our complete security services includes the provision of door supervision, in the case that businesses contract us for CCTV monitoring or key holding alone, we are always ready to dispatch personnel to prevent theft, vandalism and anti-social behaviour. 

For more information about All Time Security and our Oxfordshire-centric security solutions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our team. Explore our robust range of customisable security services, here.

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Top Security Measures for Businesses in Hertfordshire: Protecting Your Assets and Employees

Security services in Hertfordshire can save your local business from a host of security risks, including theft, vandalism and non-compliance with governmental regulations. Many businesses have a legal responsibility to secure their premises and protect the assets and employees within.

Local businesses in Hertfordshire are invaluable for boosting the local economy and provide much-needed jobs, products, services and even entertainment. That’s why it’s so important that these premises are kept safe and intact. Though however safe and secure your business may seem to be, there are always improvements that could be made. 

That’s why we, at All Time Security, are here to assist you. We are well-prepared to deliver a wide remit of security services in Hertfordshire and work closely with your business to deliver tailored solutions that meet your unique requirements. Rest assured, our security solutions are more robust than any of our competitors: we provide 24/7/365 CCTV monitoring with a direct link to emergency services and a manned guard if the situation requires it, alongside our other door supervision, concierge, key holding and alarm response services.

To learn more about why you need to protect all of your assets and employees in Hertfordshire and how to do so with our professional help, read on.

 

Why protecting your assets and employees is important and essential

The smooth running and overall well-being of your business depend entirely on protecting your employees and the expensive assets on-site. If your premises are not secure or have clear vulnerabilities, and then things get stolen or workers get hurt, your business could be liable for the damages. Not only that but your reputation amongst the local community is also put at risk. Hertfordshire is a vast county but often tight-knit, and word-of-mouth could make or break your operations.

For more reasons as to why protecting your assets and employees is essential, see below:

  1. Risk Mitigation – By investing in security measures – even just CCTV and CCTV monitoring – businesses can engage in risk mitigation. This is the identifying of potential security challenges, and the ability to take immediate action to prevent them. Prevention is protection, and security measures are often a highly effective deterrent to those who seek to harm local businesses.
  2. Financial Stability – Damage resulting from theft, vandalism or other common forms of criminal activity that target local businesses, and the legal liabilities that often follow, can seriously impact the financial stability of your operations. Replacing goods and services can even be impossible, depending on the severity of the security risk. As such, by opting for security services in Hertfordshire, you prevent losses on a massive scale. 
  3. Employee Safety – Safe employees are happy employees. Your employee’s well-being is non-negotiable for a successful business and is a legally protected right. And, employees in a healthy and positive work environment also tend to be more productive and engaged. Implementing security measures is a win-win situation for both employer and employee as a result!
  4. Customer Trust – Knowing that their transactions and their personal information are kept under certifiable lock and key goes far in boosting customer trust. This trust is what builds customer loyalty over time, and establishes your local business as a household name in Hertfordshire. When customers need a certain item or service, and they know you prioritise security, you’ll be the first company they look to.
  5. A Competitive Advantage – The safer your business is, the safer customers will feel purchasing from or working with you. They know whatever assets they leave in your care are protected. This lends you a competitive advantage that other enterprises may not have. For example, having door supervision or CCTV monitoring shows that you are invested in maintaining a high standard of safety for both employees and customers. This elevates the general perception of your business and brand, and also the very function of your business itself. 

The most effective security measures to implement in your Hertfordshire business

The most effective security measures that you can implement in your Hertfordshire business with the help of All Time Security are as follows:

  1. CCTV Remote Monitoring – Sometimes, for smaller local businesses, an in-person security team isn’t practical or cost-effective. Instead, CCTV remote monitoring can function as effectively with the right attention and care. At All Time Security, our around-the-clock CCTV monitoring doesn’t miss a thing. We operate this service alongside cleverly placed motion sensors, and a direct link to manned guards and emergency services if any security risks escalate.
  2. Alarm Response & Key Holding – We can install alarm systems throughout your premises with the help of our trained engineers. When triggered, these alarms send out an alarm response security guard to resolve any breaches in security. This is a quick, efficient and proactive security measure that guarantees the swift resolution of any security challenges to your business. Additionally, we also provide key holding in case of emergencies, and if a business requires our 24/7 assistance.
  3. Manned Security Guards – We have a range of manned security guards that can handle various private and public demands. For example, a concierge service, door supervision or security patrol. We even offer close protection if an individual requires it. Our qualified and thoroughly trained security guards can handle all kinds of Hertfordshire businesses; retail, corporate, industrial, construction site or educational campus. 

The benefit of contracting with All Time Security

At All Time Security, we are Hertfordshire locals. We know the area, the community, and every potential security challenge inside and out. Assuredly, we also know about the wide range of businesses that flourish here. The benefit of this local knowledge means that we can adapt our services to meet countless industry needs, from retail shops to hotels, restaurants, and even school campuses. Understanding that each industry requires different security solutions is a large part of what we do.

When you contract with the All Time Security team, you’re dealing with expert security services in Hertfordshire that have been SIA-approved across the board, including our security guard, CCTV monitoring, door supervision, key holding and close protection services. We only ever recruit trustworthy, competent staff members and invest in them so that they can thrive and grow in our demanding industry.

For more information about All Time Security and our Hertfordshire-centric security measures, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team. We’re as helpful and communicative as you’d expect, being local to Hertfordshire! And, for those interested in exploring our other reliable security services, see here.

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The Essential Traits of an Effective Door Supervisor: What to Look for in Security Personnel 
18 Jan 2024

Door supervisor security is a non-negotiable for any commercial space, but particularly those with late closing times or expensive valuables inside. Yet, no two door supervisors are the same. To handle a role with such great responsibility, it’s important to be selective in who you hire.  

This hiring process doesn’t have to be drawn out or complicated, as long as you are aware of the essential traits of an effective door supervisor – outlined in this article. Here, we provide invaluable insight into what to look for in security personnel.  

Find out more, below. 

Physical Fitness and Presence 

A door supervisor must be in good physical health and is preferably physically fit. Oftentimes, being involved in door supervisor security requires more than verbal conflict resolution, and the ability to manage a situation if a physical confrontation occurs. Simply put, this means they must be able to withstand anti-social behaviour from members of the public. To this end, it also helps if the door supervisor of your choosing has ‘presence,’ meaning that they appear as strong, commanding and powerful to most onlookers.  

Good Observation 

Conflict can occur in an instant, which means door supervisor security should have exceptional observation skills. Noticing minute changes in the environment prepares you for any circumstances, and enables security personnel to prepare for potential trouble with time to spare. This also leads to better risk management and mitigation; the ultimate goal of door supervisor security is preventing problems before they escalate.  

Conflict Resolution Abilities 

Although door security personnel may be required to handle conflicts physically, the more advanced their conflict resolution abilities are, the less likely it is that confrontations will escalate into fights and other dangerous actions. Previous training in conflict management is something to look for here. However, the essential conflict resolution skills you should keep watch for amongst potential hires include: 

  • Active listening 
  • Empathy 
  • Problem-solving 
  • Negotiation skills 
  • Patience 
  • Assertiveness 
  • Conflict analysis 

Above all, security personnel should be open-minded, too. There are multiple sides to every conflict, and a big part of conflict resolution is fostering a communicative and respectful environment.  

Crowd Management Expertise 

Large gatherings of people in a commercial setting can soon get out of hand. The trampling of others is a serious concern, as is disorderly conduct. Therefore, crowd management expertise is an essential trait of an effective door supervisor.  

Understanding crowd psychology – how large groups of people react to different situations, and how crowd dynamics work – is a must, as is the ability to co-ordinate crowd management strategy with other security personnel. 

 Crowd management must be a team effort, especially when it comes to maintaining physical barriers and directing people as needed. 

Communication Skills 

Although we’ve mentioned the importance of team work and conflict resolution above, we can’t understate how essential it is that any security personnel you hire have good communication skills. Clear and effective communication can prevent most problems from escalating, and also ensure most conflicts don’t ever occur. When groups are given clear directions on where to go – and in some cases – what behaviours are expected of them, door supervisors need not handle physical or verbal confrontations at all. A positive and welcoming atmosphere is fostered from the outset, which is how door supervisor security should be.  

Customer-Oriented 

What is often forgotten in the field of door supervisor security is that the people security personnel equally protect, screen and guard against are their customers. As a result, door supervisor personnel must have a customer-oriented mindset when dealing with members of the public.  

Door supervisors are the first point of contact for most people entering a commercial establishment, and the impression or atmosphere that supervisors generate can impact public perception of the establishment moving forward. If a potential hire seems polite, approachable and communicative, this points toward a positive and customer-oriented mindset. 

Training and Certification 

Door supervisors must be well-trained and certified, and in some cases, well-equipped with the right gear. For example, All Time Security personnel always have access to radios, protective and high-visibility clothing. These are a reliable marker of a door supervisor that has been thoroughly trained to the latest standards.  

To hire the best of the best, seek out security personnel from a company that has been recently SIA approved – this means that their security services, training policies, health and safety practices and more are all deemed excellent. 

Adaptability and Professionalism 

In many cases, these two qualities – adaptability and professionalism – go hand-in-hand for a door supervisor. When involved in door supervisor security, you must be able to adapt to changing situations, unexpected events and misconduct without breaking a sweat.  

Other customers in a commercial space depend on door supervisors to keep them safe and calm whatever the situation, and decisions on how to handle a set of circumstances can only be made if you work well under pressure. Maintaining composure is – and always will be – an essential trait of an effective door supervisor. 

In the same way, being able to maintain a steady composure under pressure also demonstrates a security personnel’s level of professionalism and experience on the job. When you hire an employee that directly interacts with your customers, their professionalism dictates how professional your establishment will be perceived. That is to say, the more respectful and trustworthy your security personnel, the more your business will benefit. 

Knowledge of Local Laws and Regulations 

Finally, though we’ve covered the basis of training and certification as essential traits of an effective door supervisor, there’s one more quality that establishments often overlook during interviews – the supervisor’s knowledge of local laws and regulations.  

Meaning that, if conflict arises, can your door supervisor liaise well with local police officers and other law enforcement? Security personnel must behave appropriately and in accordance with the law at all times.  

Moreover, knowledge of local regulations also extends to the independent security protocols and emergency procedures of your business – any personnel you hire must be willing to learn these procedures inside and out. 

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security in Southampton
The Role of Security Guards in Ensuring Safety: Importance for Southampton Businesses 

If you are a business owner, security should be a top priority, regardless of the type of business that you own or manage. Security guards play a key role in the safety and security of businesses throughout Southampton, and if you are looking to reap the benefits of having experienced and licensed security guards for your business, then you have come to the right place. 

In this blog, we will explore the role of security guards for businesses in more detail, including the advantages of hiring security guards from trustworthy security companies in Southampton (such as All Time Security), how they prevent crime and how they contribute to a safe working environment. 

 

The Importance of Security Guards 

Security guards are well-known for being imposing and intimidating characters who stand at the entrance of businesses or patrol the area. Their versatile nature means that they can be deployed anywhere, from retail shops to corporate offices. They have many duties and responsibilities that can be applied in a diverse range of situations.  

You can expect security guards to: 

  • Monitor the area 
  • Manage access control 
  • Handle emergencies 
  • Screen incoming visitors/guests  
  • Enforce rules and regulations  
  • De-escalate situations 
  • Deter theft  
  • And more… 

As you can see, security guards have many responsibilities, depending on the business’ needs and requirements.  

Benefits of Professional Security Guards 

When you choose to hire professional security guards, you can benefit in several different ways. This includes: 

  • Enhanced Safety 

Security guards can help protect employees, customers or visitors, and other assets, such as stock and inventory.  With trained security guards, you are provided peace of mind against potential dangers as you can rely on them to identify hazards and/or potential crimes and handle the situation professionally. Your employees and customers/visitors will also feel safer when they spot a security guard ensuring their protection. 

  • Crime Deterrent  

When a security guard is present and visible, burglars, intruders and thieves alike are less likely to steal or commit a crime relating to your business. For example, if a security guard is stationed at the entrance/exit of a retail store, a thief is less likely to shoplift as a result.  

  • Emergency Response 

Security guards are trained to manage all sorts of emergencies, from medical incidents and fires to dangerous people and crime. Not only will they be able to diffuse the situation (in terms of the latter), but they can also assist with the former and potentially save lives.  

  • Keen Monitoring 

A security guard will be well aware of how to spot suspicious behaviour within your business. This means that while your employees might be busy with their own tasks, a suspicious individual could be attempting to steal something or enter the property without authorisation. Security guards can stop this from becoming a bigger problem, handling the issue with ease and efficiency.  

  • Improved Company Reputation 

Having security guards posted within your business can significantly improve your company’s reputation, especially when it comes to improving both employee and customer experience. Security guards can also assist with customer service, directing customers to where they need to go and helping them with any queries that they may have. With these positive experiences, customers are likely to spread the word of how helpful your company’s security guards are, and how your business appears highly professional and reliable.  

All Time Security’s Safety & Security Solutions 

With many security companies in Southampton to choose from, it can be difficult to find the right security company for you and your business. However, at All Time Security, you can rest assured that our security guards are trained, licensed, and reliable when it comes to protecting your business. 

From offices to campuses, we can deploy our security guards to various locations across Southampton. We are one of the few SIA-approved security contractors in the nation that are approved in: 

  • Door supervising  
  • Key holding 
  • Security guard 
  • Close protection 
  • CCTV 

This means that our quality of work is exceptional, and you can trust us to deliver high-quality services that will meet your business demands and exceed your expectations.  

We screen and assess all of our security personnel, and they undergo extensive in-house training to ensure that they can provide the highest standard of service that aligns with our core values and beliefs. All security guards from All Time Security will be SIA-approved, with qualifications in other areas such as First Aid, Fire Safety, and more.  

Security Guards for Southampton Businesses 

Southampton is considered to be one of the most dangerous cities in Hampshire. In fact, according to CrimeRate UK, the overall crime rate in the city in 2022 was 134 crimes per 1,000 people. Southampton is continuously listed as one of the top cities with the worst crime rates in the UK, with a 62% higher crime rate compared to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland’s overall figure as of 2023. In particular, the crime rate of shoplifting was at 8 crimes per 1,000 people in 2022, and burglary was at 7 crimes per 1,000 people.  

As a business owner in Southampton, you should be vigilant when it comes to the safety and security of your business, including the property, your employees and customers, and your goods or assets. As a result, hiring a professional security company like All Time Security is crucial to ensuring the safety of your business.  

Protect Your Southampton Business with All Time Security 

Security guards are an essential part of any business in Southampton, and we know how important it is to have security personnel that you can trust and rely on.  

At All Time Security, we can provide you with highly trained and skilled security guards to help protect your Southampton business. No matter the type of business that you own, you can count on us as one of the leading security companies in Southampton to effectively keep your property, your employees and customers, and your assets safe.  

Learn more about our services by getting in touch with us today on 01494511222 / 03330050945, or by dropping us an email at info@alltimesecurity.co.uk.   

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The Top Security Concerns for Businesses in Milton Keynes and How to Address Them
08 Nov 2023

As a business owner in Milton Keynes, it would be no surprise that there are numerous security challenges that your business could encounter. From potential theft to vandalism, there are multiple security risks to be aware of. However, with these concerns in mind, how can they be addressed?

If you’re looking for the answer to this question, you have come to the right place! In this blog, we will explore the top security concerns for businesses in Milton Keynes and how you can address them without compromising the quality of your business’ services.

So, without further ado, let’s get right to it!

Burglary Prevention

If you own a retail business, chances are you could become a target of theft. No matter your inventory, you will always be at risk of theft, especially if your storefront is situated in a shifty area. This could result in a loss of stock and valuables, which can negatively impact not only your cash flow, but also your business as a whole.

Negative cash flow can lead to more problems down the road, which is why it is important that you have burglary prevention measures in place to prevent possible theft in the future.

Access Control

Intruders and/or unauthorised people could easily walk in and around your business, perhaps with the intention to steal goods (or even confidential/sensitive business information) or simply vandalise the premises. This can be devastating for your business, regardless of the type of business that you own.

Limiting who has access to which areas of your property is a great way to minimise the risk of
unauthorised access.

Employee Safety

Businesses will no doubt have a number of employees present throughout their operating hours. From 1 employee to 100, employee safety should be prioritised alongside customer or visitor safety. Employees should feel safe within the premises, but without adequate security measures, you could be putting them in danger.

For example, burglars could break into your property and threaten your employees and customers. Or perhaps your employees simply don’t know what to do in the event that they witness someone shoplifting. Unruly patrons could also be harassing your employees.

Door Screening

Limiting access to your establishment is a step towards preventing crime and boosting your security – this is especially key for businesses with age restrictions (bars, clubs, etc.). Disorderly patrons can be
instantly spotted at the door, but if there is no security there, they can simply continue their turbulent
behaviour inside the premises. Not only can this lead to potential violence, but it can also stain your
business’ reputation.

Addressing These Concerns

The important question is: what can you do to address these security concerns?

We have got the answer for you: All Time Security’s first class security services in Milton Keynes!

As one of the few SIA-approved (in 5 areas) contractors within the country, you can count on us for your business security needs. Our comprehensive security services in Milton Keynes can be tailored to accommodate your specific business requirements and needs, ensuring that you are provided with the best level of security that is needed.

With the aforementioned security concerns in mind, here is how All Time Security and our security services in Milton Keynes can help:

  • Burglary prevention – All Time Security guards and CCTV monitoring can help with deterring burglary and theft by highlighting your business’ security presence; this can prevent thieves or burglars from attempting to steal from your business
  • Access control – our access control systems enable you to gain control over who can and cannot enter which areas of the property, allowing you to manage authorised and unauthorised access
  • Employee safety – our trained security guards, patrols and even concierge or reception security can provide employees with peace of mind in knowing that there are skilled security professionals present to help and protect them should an incident occur
  • Door screening – with our door supervision services, you can place one of our personnel at the entrance of your business with the task of screening anyone who wishes to enter; this can help spot underage or inebriated persons and prevent them from going inside

Why Choose ATS security services in Milton Keynes?

With our exceptional security services in Milton Keynes, you are guaranteed professional security solutions, designed to protect your business at all fronts. In fact, here are several benefits to take into account when you choose to work with us:

  • Skilled and trained security personnel – our staff are intensively trained and hold SIA accreditations; they can adapt to any situation at hand, so you can rely on them for your security needs
  • Customisable security package – pick and choose which security solutions you would like for your business
  • SIA approved in door supervising, key holding, security guarding, close protection, and
    CCTV
    – you can expect our services to be of phenomenal standards
  • Trustworthy and reliable security firm – we are dedicated to ensuring that our clients feel safe, comfortable and protected; our services are always dependable and efficient as we are always reviewing our services to identify areas of improvement
  • Affordable solutions – our prices are competitive and it is unlikely that you will find a better price anywhere else; a free no-obligation quote can be requested by getting in touch
  • High quality equipment – sometimes equipment is needed as part of our bespoke security services, which is why we ensure that we are supplied with the right tools for the job at hand, including radios, high visibility clothing, and more

Implementing Tailored Security Solutions with All Time Security

If you own a business in Milton Keynes, security should be a top priority, not only to protect the wellbeing of your employees and customers, but also to safeguard your property and goods or anything valuable within it. Enhancing your security can lead to a wide range of benefits that could contribute to the success of your business.

So, what are you waiting for?

All Time Security’s comprehensive security services in Milton Keynes are exactly what your business needs for excellent crime prevention. For more information on our offerings, or if you have any further questions about our security solutions in Milton Keynes, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

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Choosing the Right Security Company for Your Business: Factors to Consider in Reading

Owning a business in Reading means that you need to be prepared for the security risks that come with it. However, with numerous security companies in Reading to choose from, how can you determine which one is the right one for you and your business?

Why Have a SIA company?

In this blog, we will explore choosing the right security company for you, especially in terms of the factors that you need to consider to help inform your final decision.

Let’s jump right into it!

Experience and Reputation

A key factor that you should take into account is the experience and reputation of the security companies in Reading that you are looking into. For example, it might be worthwhile asking yourself the following questions as you search for the perfect security company:

  • How many years of experience in the security industry do they have?
  • Are they accredited?
  • What is their reputation like?

With the above questions in mind, it is a good idea to research more about the various security companies in Reading in order to shortlist the ones that stand out the most.

All Time Security’s Experience and Reputation

At All Time Security, we have been providing high quality security solutions for businesses across the UK for multiple years, meaning that you can rest assured that we are experienced and are experts at what we do.

As SIA-approved contractors in 5 fields (one of the few security firms in the country to be able to boast about this!), our services are guaranteed to be delivered to the highest standards.

Plus, we even have an ISO 9001 accreditation and are an approved Safe Contractor, which means that your business is always in safe hands when you choose to work with us.

Range of Services Offered

Alongside their experience and expertise, you should also look for the range of services that the company offers. These are the questions to think about:

  • Do they provide the services that my business needs?
  • What is included in their offerings?
  • Can their range of services accommodate my business’ specific requirements?/Can their services be customised?

All Time Security Services

All Time Security offers a wide collection of security services for businesses in Reading. This includes security solutions such as:

  • CCTV monitoring
  • Door supervision
  • Security guarding
  • Key holding
  • Alarm response
  • Patrols
  • And more…

Regardless of whether you own a retail shop or a bar, All Time Security offers exceptional security services to help protect and safeguard your business’ patrons, assets, and employees.

We offer a standard comprehensive security package, which is suitable for a vast array of businesses, but you also have the opportunity to pick and choose the security solutions you wish to implement for your business. This means that we offer bespoke security services that cater towards your every need.

Qualifications and Training of Security Personnel

Another crucial factor to consider is the qualifications and training of the security personnel under the security firm. After all, it will be these personnel who will be protecting your business. You need to investigate the answers to questions such as:

  • How are the security personnel trained?
  • What qualifications do the security personnel have?
  • Are the security personnel properly vetted and screened?
  • How professional are the security personnel?

Knowing the answers to the above questions can help you determine whether that security company is right for your business. You have to make sure that the people you are putting your trust in to protect your business are reliable and skilled.

The All Time Security Team

All Time Security’s personnel are highly trained and skilled for the task at hand. With quality in-house training, we make sure that we dispatch only the best personnel for your business needs, ensuring that they deliver professional services that meet the demands of your business.

This means that regardless of whether you require front of house/concierge security to greet guests, or corporate security for your offices, the All Time Security team is well equipped with the knowledge, training, and expertise to get the job done effectively. All of our personnel undergo strict vetting procedures before being accepted into our company, so we source only the most suitable candidates to be part of the All Time Security team.

Client Testimonials

When you purchase a product, it is highly likely that you read the reviews first – and this is applicable to finding the best security company for your business in Reading as well! Reviews are an excellent way to get a feel of how other customers perceive the company, especially once they have experienced the company’s services.

Not only can reviews help you better understand whether the security firm is right for you, but you also get a glimpse into how they can help your business in terms of enhancing security and safety.

All Time Security Reviews

Don’t just trust our word for it, trust our clients! Read our customer reviews on our website to see what our clients have to say about our security services. Just a heads up – you will find that most, if not all, of them are 5 star reviews that recommend and approve our services.

If that is not enough to finalise your decision in choosing All Time Security for your business in Reading, feel free to speak to us should you have any questions regarding our services!

Choose All Time Security for Your Business Security Needs in Reading

As one of the leading security companies in Reading, you can rely on All Time Security and our collection of security services to effectively protect your business, including persons and goods within the premises. With comprehensive security solutions that can be tailored to meet the demands of your business, All Time Security is the security company to turn to in Reading.

Prevent and deter crime and improve the safety and security of goods, valuables, employees, and customers when you choose All Time Security to protect your business in Reading.

For more information on our offerings, or if you have any further questions about our services in Reading, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the All Time Security team today.

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Trends Shaping the Future of Private Security Services in the UK
06 Oct 2023

Private security and event security companies have become increasingly popular in recent years and have arguably cemented themselves as an important feature of modern society. And with advancements in modern technology, the way in which such companies operate has become far more efficient and effective, allowing business owners to protect their premises in ways that they haven’t been able to in the past. But what does the future hold for private security services? And how will advancements in technology affect the way in which business owners secure their property? Let’s take a look in this expert guide.

The Use of Drones

Drones have become an increasingly popular asset in the private security sector. Drones offer an unrivalled level of versatility and are able to access hard to reach areas where a human being might experience difficulty. Drones equipped with cameras can provide aerial surveillance and real-time video feeds, allowing security personnel to monitor large areas from a central location. This can be especially useful for large scale events, construction sites, and other locations where hiring human patrols may be out of budget. Indeed, drones offer an affordable alternative to conventional security measures – and are definitely a worthwhile investment.

When it comes to the future of the UK’s private security services, it is likely that drones will continue to play an increasingly important role within the industry. Ever evolving drone technologies, such as longer battery life, improved cameras, and enhanced navigation systems, promise to make them far more useful in security applications, such as surveillance systems and reconnaissance missions.

Advanced Biometric Systems

Biometric authentication is nothing new, but is vastly becoming an increasingly popular tool in the private security sector, thanks to its ability to provide secure, accurate, reliable and convenient access control. Biometric authentication is effective because it analyses physical or behavioural traits, such as a person’s unique fingerprints, an individual’s face, and patterns in their voice, to verify a person’s identity and grant access to restricted areas or devices, and preventing unwanted visitors from entering the area, reducing the risk of harm coming to property or a business premises. 

As aforementioned, the key benefit of biometric authentication is the fact that it is highly accurate, secure, and reliable. Biometric traits are unique to each individual and are difficult to replicate, making them more secure than other modes of authentication such as passwords or scanning an ID card. Indeed, this also means that biometric authentication is faster and more convenient than having to remember a password and pin or having to carry around a physical ID card.

Although there are concerns from some commentators that biometric authentication can present privacy issues for those involved, it is a highly effective and efficient way to ensure that a business premises is secure, and only the people who should be on site are granted access. Indeed, the rapid advancements in biometric technology, such as improved accuracy and faster processing times will make them highly useful when it comes to access applications.

Artificial Intelligence

Increasingly, artificial intelligence is being used in security surveillance systems. One of the major advantages of AI is that it can analyse large amounts of data in real time and quickly detect any potential threats. AI systems use machine learning algorithms to identify suspicious behaviour or activity, such as unauthorised access, loitering, or unusual movements of individuals that the human eye may not be able to detect. AI systems essentially streamline the way in which a security system operates, reducing the workload for security personnel so that they can focus on other tasks such as running the business. Another added benefit of AI security systems is that they automate the monitoring process, providing for a far more accurate and efficient security system.

Although some critics suggest it has its flaws such as creating false positives for innocent behaviour, the AI technology is evolving at a rapid rate and is only set to improve, meaning businesses will massively benefit from an enhanced and far more accurate security system.

An Increased Reliance on Private Police

Due to massive government cuts in the UK, the number of public police officers has fallen dramatically, which has resulted in private security companies being used as essentially replacements for police patrols. Many small and large businesses are now opting to hire private security companies to protect their premises from break ins and thefts due to their loss of faith in the police service.

Cloud Based Solutions Will Be Everywhere

Much like with AI, the cloud based solutions are not a new trend in the private security industry, but it is arguably expanding extremely rapidly. From small business markets to much larger enterprises we can see the momentum push more and more businesses to leverage cloud-based security solutions and services. And as we continue to witness, the devastating impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on  businesses globally has only accelerated the movement to cloud-based operations for people and businesses around the world.

Cloud based solutions allow businesses to achieve a simplistic way of managing their security, minimising the amount of assets needed, and offer a setup that is both easy to use and navigate – and this is exactly what cloud technology delivers so well. With a cloud based security service, there is no need for a local server or software. Business owners can quickly and easily check the status of their business security in real time, receive security events and alarms quickly, and respond effectively to emergencies using a simple smartphone app.

The Bottom Line

Technology has arguably revolutionised the way in which private security services in the UK operate, and has allowed them to streamline the service they provide, making everything far more reliable, precise, and efficient. It is crucial that private security companies embrace this ever evolving technology if they want to ensure that they offer a service that truly safeguards a business – and that’s exactly what we do here at All Time Security. For more information on how we can assist you and your business, do not hesitate to get in touch with us today.

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