Security Standards – Changes Ahead

The progress of safety standards continues to be a topical issue and that’s the biggest reason we are getting European standardization body. As society develops, we demand even higher standards from every field and the security and fire sectors are no exception. However, we also look for every opportunity to reduce our costs and far from seeking out value for money, we are sometimes tempted by the cheapest option. This is rarely the best option and we know that the value route is a better one. But our insatiable demand for cheap solutions often encourages us to turn a blind eye to the negatives of taking this direction, making us vulnerable to the approaches of poor quality providers.
So we choose the cheapest option and pray that nothing goes wrong. Rarely is it that simple. When the service falls down or our insurer won't pay up or we even end up being prosecuted for failure to comply with regulations, we cry foul. It would be unfair to say that we are always looking for the cheapest option irrespective of the consequences. Security and fire protection responsibilities provide no exception to this trend. Both are often viewed as a grudge purchase and the temptation to keep the cost of such a service to a minimum is often a direction company decision makers opt to choose. The resulting problems can lead to a chorus of complaints and action has to be taken to protect the whole so that we get best output at the end.

Voluntary regulation Vs. Government Interventions: Sometimes successful European standardization body action can be achieved by an industry policing itself by creating its own codes of conduct, which suppliers can sign up to and customers can select from. However, government intervention through regulation is sometimes required. Examples of both approaches can be seen today.

*European Standards and Grading *- Caution! As a rule, UK insurers are following the guidelines set down by these standards and are specifying that new systems must be installed to an appropriate grade relative to the level of risk. For many commercial property installations, this is grade three. Some installers are in some situations, undercutting competitors by recommending grade two systems that are not always suitable for commercial locations. Customers should always consult with their insurer before the system is installed. This avoids the problem of your insurer declining cover until a grade two systems is upgraded to or replaced by a grade three system.