National Day of Action to Tackle Metal Theft

The Home Office, DEFRA, The Environment Agency and Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs are joining police officers on a day of national action to address the growing problem of metal theft.

According to an official statement on the ACPO website, 2011 has been “an extraordinary year” for metal theft, with all industries recording significant year-on-year increases for associated crimes.

Police forces and industry leaders are coming together to tackle those who persist in stealing metal whether it be from railways, business premises, utilities, churches or homes.

Deputy chief constable Paul Crowther, who heads the Association of Chief Police Officers’ (ACPO) Metal Theft Working Group, said: “This has been a remarkable year in terms of metal theft. We have seen unprecedented levels of criminal activity, but we’ve also witnessed incredible efforts by the police and other agencies to tackle the issue.”

Paul Crowther continued, “This day of action builds on the success of previous operations. All involved will use intelligence gathered throughout the year to target those we believe are putting the infrastructure at risk of serious harm. All affected industries are now working together to deal with the associated problems, and we continue to push for strengthened legislation to help deal with rogue scrap metal recyclers.”

There has been a large increase in metal theft from Churches across Lincolnshire and the East Midlands, with John Coates, from Ecclesiastical Insurance, stating that the increase in crime is a direct result of the rise in scrap metal prices worldwide.

Back in October of this year the GBSG team joined seminars in Horncastle and Lincoln, to help tackle this problem alongside speakers from English Heritage, Lincolnshire Police, Ecclesiastical Insurance and SmartWater.

GBSG director Neil Jackson said of the growing problem, “We were starting to see a large increase in the number of enquiries from Churches across Lincolnshire and the East Midlands who had been advised to put security measures in place to safeguard them from the increase in metal theft.”

He continued, “Due to planning restrictions, many Churches face problems when wanting to install security measures due to the damage this may cause the building. To overcome this we developed the Video Verification CCTV System which offers many additional benefits included quick installation, no cabling as it is completely wireless and it operates over the mobile phone network so does not require the installation of a telephone line, ensuring no installation damage to the building.”

In conclusion, Paul Crowther added, “As we approach 2012 I can assure everyone that efforts to reduce metal theft and its impact will continue. Thieves and unscrupulous dealers will find the UK is not prepared to suffer any further, and we will not hesitate to take action against anyone who is found to be involved in this form of criminality.”

For more information on the Video Verification CCTV System click here.

How are you investing in training the next GP generation?

The RCGP have published figures showing the falling rates of GP Registrars passing the Clinical Skills Assessment examination.

Videoing of consultations, regularly reviewed throughout the year, is the ideal way to help develop trainees in the key areas – data management, clinical management and interpersonal skills.

But many practices struggle with difficult to use equipment, which means cameras don’t get switched on, or difficult editing means footage doesn’t get reviewed. And all too often patients are uncomfortable with intrusive cameras set on tripods at the end of the couch or cameras with wires running to television screens or recorders.

That’s why we have developed our unique GP skills training video production solution, which harnesses remote CCTV monitoring technology that is more usually found in surveillance situations.

It provides a discreet solution for patients, whilst optimising review and editing capability, to ensure that your trainees derive the most from the exercise, including sound only recording – all at the flick of a simple wall switch. The system can be managed remotely in a dedicated review and edit room, or managed unobtrusively within the consulting room.

For more information on this training system click here.

View an explanatory diagram of how the system works.

Download the GP Training Brochure.

Churches across the UK are experiencing an increase in crime rates

As the price of scrap metal has doubled in the last 5 years, with lead now valued at £700 per tonne, making it a valuable target for criminals, Churches across the UK are experiencing increased crime rates.

Local Police have advised, “Churches need to be extra vigilant in relation to this type of crime, especially owners of older properties which may have lead on the roof. Churches can also look at their CCTV, security lighting and apply anti-vandal paint to help prevent them from being targets.”

To combat this growing problem, GB Security Group have developed the new Video Verification CCTV System that is specifically designed for use in Churches across the UK.

Completely wireless detectors incorporating a motion sensor, night vision digital camera and infrared illuminators, self-powered with a 2 year battery life, ensures that crimes will no longer go undetected.

Utilising the very latest technologies, GBSG has developed this CCTV system to work seamlessly with our NSI Gold approved Remote Video Response Centre (RVRC), providing you with protection 24/7.

How does the Video Verification CCTV System work?

The Video Verification CCTV System provides all the benefits of a monitored CCTV system without the surveillance costs associated with it. By using this system the cameras only operate and record at an alarm activation, therefore removing the need for an operator to monitor the camera.

The remote camera and detection module can be fitted to the roof of a Church or any other vulnerable area. When the system is armed and the alarm is activated the corresponding camera records a 10 second clip of what caused the activation. This is then transmitted to the RVRC and the operators can then act upon the video footage by either identifying it as a false alarm or calling the corresponding authority / keyholder.

Benefits of this system:
• Quick installation
• Neat solution which will blend into the building making the system very discreet
• Completely wireless so does not need the installation of cables
• Operates over the mobile phone network so does not need a phone line
• Instant video verification of intrusion/activation
• Low running costs
• Camera and detection can be used both internally and externally
• Reduction of false alarms
• No installation damage to building

Click here for more information on the Video Verification CCTV System on contact us on 01775 821100.

Analogue cameras feel the lag

As many as 80% of CCTV camera systems in the UK are lagging behind their IP counterparts.

Analogue technology cameras still command a high sales volume because of their lower price, despite the lower grade images they transmit.

The new digital cameras use IP, a data network based transmission, to deliver much higher resolution images.

“Feedback suggests that traditional security installers are still nervous about moving on to IP systems due to the complexity of network integration, which is why it’s worth speaking with a systems integrator and network specialist if you’re interested, because we have worked with this technology for a number of years and know what it can really offer,” explained GB Security Group technical director Neil Jackson.

He added: “Individual IP-based digital cameras are more expensive, but it’s a completely different beast and potentially you may need fewer cameras because of the much higher resolution as fewer cameras can cover a specific area.”

Analogue CCTV systems are based on television broadcasting methods and use technology that was developed in the 1940s. The video stream is broadcast in ‘half frames’ which are then ‘interlaced’ to create the full moving image, and this process creates blurring and distortion.

With IP based digital cameras, the resolution can provide up to twelve times as much detail and step from 0.1 megapixel images to as high as 1.3 megapixels.

Digitised high resolution images that are transported over an IP network can also be transmitted and stored more easily.

Read the latest GBSG Newsletter.

Protecting pupils and staff around the clock at Lincoln super-school

A super-school in Lincoln is being protected from vandalism and burglary by round the clock remotely monitored cctv cameras designed and installed by Lincolnshire-based GB Security Group.

The Chad Varah Primary School was formed from the merger of the former Myle Cross Junior School and St Giles Infant School.

And before the cctv system had even been commissioned, there was a break in, but operators spotted the intruders and responded to the event through the tannoy system that was in place ready for commissioning. The system has continued to prove its worth, with no problems with vandalism or break ins at the school.

Major extensions were added to the former St Giles site to create the new school and all the pupils and staff moved to Myle Cross as a temporary home for 12 months whilst the £2m facelift was carried out.

And with the schools being in an area that has experienced problems with vandalism in the past, project staff were concerned about how best to protect the site whilst it was under development.

The team at Mouchel – the outsourcing company which provides the building maintenance consultancy services to Lincolnshire County Council – undertook a feasibility study into security options.

And the most effective solution they identified was a remotely monitored cctv system, operating to the exacting BS8418 standard, which was specially configured, designed and installed by Lincolnshire-based GB Security Group.

“We had a rather unique situation with the development of Chad Varah Primary School because we had to protect two sites but intended to be able to re-use security equipment from the temporary site once work was complete,” explained Rob Martin, lead consultant at Mouchel.

“Remote monitoring was the most effective solution to the problem of site security at this school, which is located in what can be a rather challenging area. As well as protecting the building, it also provided security for the contractors’ compound during building works. It helped to stop crime before it took place, unlike stand-alone cctv which simply records an event and leaves little likelihood of prosecution.”

When the cctv system was installed at Myle Cross, but before it had been commissioned, there was a break in. But operators spotted the intruders and responded to the event through the tannoy system that was in place ready for commissioning. “It stopped them in their tracks, and has continued to do so. We have had no problems at all with vandalism or break ins,” added Rob.

Tannoy plays a key role in remotely monitored cctv, with the remote operators using it to alert intruders to the fact that they are under surveillance and that the police will be called.

Following the completion of the building redevelopment work , a BS8418 remotely monitored system with wrap around package was installed to protect the newly completed site from intrusion out of hours.

The new school facilities, described by headmistress Julie Harrison as the perfect space in which pupils can learn, provide the 440 pupils with a new sports hall, an IT suite and state-of-the-art classrooms.

For more information visit www.gbsg.co.uk.

CCTV Systems vs Manned Guarding

GB Security Group look at how to choose the best combination of electronic and manned security.

One of the effects of the global economic downturn is likely to be an increase in crime. This stark fact has been recognised by the UK Home Office in a leaked memo obtained by the BBC. 1 As the motivation for crime increases, property crime is predicted to have risen to 7% in 2008 and will rise a further 2% in 2009; 2 just at the time when there is increased pressure on police resources and priorities, following the diversion of government funds to other sectors.

So now is the time to review your security budget, in order to squeeze as much value out of suppliers as possible. You need to make sure that you are spending your security budget in the most cost-effective way possible.

CCTV Systems

One way in which companies still using traditional manned security guards and mobile patrols can actually save money is by switching to remotely monitored CCTV systems. These security systems can protect any type of premises 24-7 at low cost. Every type of closed location can be protected, from construction sites, depots and factories, to offices, schools and colleges. The advanced technology used in these systems means they can be adapted for use at any site; when designing the system the client’s needs are always assessed and incorporated into the final product.

Unlike traditional manned security guards that can be expensive and unreliable, remotely monitored CCTV reduces the risk of human error and can be extremely good value for money. CCTV cannot be threatened; it does not require any facilities, such as rest rooms, radios and vehicles, nor does it ever fall asleep on the job. CCTV can constantly monitor premises to provide total security during unoccupied hours and can be far more cost effective than mobile patrols that provide limited coverage.

How does it work?

Using high speed broadband and wireless 3G connections, integrated cameras and motion sensors detect any movement on site and transmit live images to the control centre 24 hours a day. If the images indicate a problem, trained operators act with an audio warning to any intruder and alert the police within seconds to deliver an immediate response. Research shows that 96% of intruders leave the site immediately when they are given an audio announcement. 3 Recording from the systems can also be used to replay any incidents, which can be useful as evidence in a criminal case, or for training, internal security and Health and Safety purposes.

For high-security requirements, intruder alarm systems and other surveillance technology can be included in an integrated system. Fences can be linked to alarm monitoring and CCTV systems; this allows the remote monitoring station to observe large areas of perimeter fencing, and if necessary arrange for an appropriate response. Such measures can also be linked to speakers through which a remote security officer can address and deter an intruder.

Integrated Electronic Systems

Remotely monitored CCTV can be used very effectively in conjunction with other electronic systems, thereby providing an integrated approach to business security. Other elements of integrated systems can include the following:

Access Control to Buildings

Electronic access control is becoming more common. Door entry phones, many with visual verification by small video cameras, or swipe cards or tags that are read by computer operated detectors, are all readily available. Building entry can also be controlled via an audio entry system with door release mechanisms at all access points. For greater security a video entry system can be installed allowing those inside the building to view any visitor and request identification to be shown prior to being granted access.

Integrating Access Control systems

These cards, tags, and fob control systems can be integrated into intruder, fire and CCTV systems, which can be used to activate them. Computer control of these systems potentially offers far wider applications than security, as they can also help you to locate staff more easily, or record their times of entering and leaving the building. Such a system can be expanded to control automatic locks, alarms, smoke and fire detectors, building up a complete management and reporting package. Tagging all equipment also makes a computerised inventory of the entire business simple to set up and manage.

Alarms and Alarm Communication

Alarm design and technology is continually improving. False alarms are being reduced, and higher degrees of security are being provided. Alarms can be audible-only or monitored remotely by a monitoring station arranged by your installer. Monitored systems are strongly recommended for business users, as many now provide verification that intruders are on the premises using additional signalling equipment.

Integrated solutions result in technologies working together to achieve security outcomes. They can reduce cost and have a wider applicability than simply security, e.g. equipment tagging for both security and stock management purposes. With an integrated system many actions can be automated, meaning that a security system is simpler to use, requires less training and performs more functions. Moreover, by having a single company install these products, it allows system infrastructure to be shared, reducing costs and providing only one contact for all service requirements. A company like GBSG is able to provide clients with a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all its security solutions.

Manned Guarding

Technology allows sites to be protected 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To match this level of cover would require a significant manned guarding presence, but the costs of employing on-site security guards have been rising steadily over the past few years due to new licensing requirements and minimum wage legislation. So, if CCTV and remote monitoring are so much cheaper than manned guarding why not simply rely on technology? The answer is that there are occasions when it is more appropriate to have a real person in place, for example in a front-of-house role, where they will interact with employees, customers and visitors. A human presence can also act as a deterrent to potential intruders, and sometimes businesses will need to employ extra security personnel to cater for one-off events.

There is also a synergy to be gained from guards working in conjunction with technological solutions. A manned guard can become more effective because he is supported by technology. While technology can be used to tour sites remotely, the use of a guard patrol can provide additional cover. Indeed many companies opt for ‘mantech’ solutions, where guards form an integral part of site monitoring and are able to call into visual monitoring centres before they set off on their tour of the sites so the centre can ‘virtually’ accompany them. Some businesses have a flying squad of guards who are able to go out rapidly when they get visual verification following an alarm. Even if you have an audio link where you can immediately warn an intruder off site, it is stilll effective to have a human body to back up the warning.

Quality of Guarding Personnel

If you decide that your business still has a requirement for manned guards then you must ensure that they are high-calibre personnel who are licensed to work in the security industry. This means they should be working for an ACS registered company,7 which has screened their personnel and ensured that they have the right clearances, references, level of training and expertise to work for your business. Guards these days need to be more technical, more customer-facing, able to embrace technology and computer literate.

In addition, your security provider should pay competitive wages, and ideally have benefits packages in place, in order to discourage high turnover amongst security personnel. For some contractors, the turnover rate is as high as 300 percent, which is the equivalent of replacing the whole work force three times in a year.8 High turnover causes the contractor to lower recruiting standards to constantly fill vacancies. This results in lower quality personnel placed with the client. Wages that are set too low also result in a high rate of call offs, where an officer calls in sick at the last minute, which can lead to unsatisfactory fill-in situations.

Supervision, training, and officer discipline should be carried out by the security provider, not your own business personnel. Your security provider should also carry out supervisory visits to security staff as part of the management process.

Security: A Necessary Expense

A British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) Survey in 2008 highlighted that 44% of respondents had never sought any crime reduction advice. Yet addressing crime, shrinkage and loss is essential; the BCC calls it ‘Profit Protection’, because when you address these issues effectively you protect your business profits. Even in these cash-strapped times it is essential that businesses initiate and maintain effective security measures to ensure that they are adequately protected against crime. If budgets are tight then there are ways of maintaining a quality service whilst cutting expenditure, e.g. switching from manned guards to electronic systems, which could cut your security bill by over 80%.

Free Professional Advice

One of the most important factors when considering your business’ security is ensuring that all your security measures have been sourced from professional companies that provide quality products and services.9 GBSG offers all aspects of integrated security in house. This allows us to have complete control over the design, installation, and service and most importantly ensures the customer has a single point of contact that can be relied upon to provide a quick and efficient service. We offer a free advisory service and employ only ACS –approved security staff.

So, if you want to save money and protect your business, please contact GB Security Group to arrange a free on-site visit, or visit our website at www.gbsg.co.uk.

Welcome to the new GB Security Group Blog!

GB Security Group will be posting blogs to keep you updated with all the exciting goings on in the security industry. Check here for important product and service updates, offers and key information regarding the security industry.