Introduction
Service providers play an important part in the broader security landscape, especially during a physical security risk assessment. Their level of professionalism, cooperation, and communication can directly influence the outcome of an assessment. While many are committed to delivering quality service, there are times when gaps in engagement can impact the process and ultimately the client’s security.
At Alwinco, we focus exclusively on independent physical security risk assessments. We do not sell security products or services, which allows us to remain objective. Our goal is to identify security risks and provide risk-specific solutions based on fact, not assumptions.
If you want a clear understanding of the real risks facing your site or need guidance on how to work more effectively with your service providers, we are here to help. Contact us via email at andre@alwinco.co.za, schedule a Microsoft Teams meeting, or arrange a phone consultation. Let’s take the first step toward strengthening your security.
Service Providers: Their role in a Security Risk Assessment
Security Risk Assessment Fourways – Service providers play a crucial role in various industries, from security to maintenance and consulting. In this article, we explore what service providers do and the interactions they have with professionals like security risk assessors.
What is a Service Provider?
A service provider isn’t just one person; it can be a group of people, companies, or consultants working together. Their job is to deliver specific services to clients, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely.
Security Risk Assessments: A Closer Look
Let’s delve into the world of security risk assessments. Imagine you’re tasked with assessing the security measures at a location. On the first day, the service provider, which could be a security company, asks for your company details and necessary documents, like your PSIRA credentials. PSIRA documents certify your competence in security matters, essential for conducting assessments.
The Importance of Documentation
Over 20 years of conducting assessments, I’ve always carried my documents to every site visit. It’s standard practice for both parties—the assessor and the service provider—to exchange PSIRA documents. This mutual exchange ensures that everyone involved is qualified and accountable.
On-Site Interactions
During assessments, security providers often accompany assessors closely, answering questions and providing necessary documents from the client’s office. This collaborative approach helps assessors understand the security setup and recommend improvements.
Challenges Faced
However, not all assessments proceed smoothly. Recently, during an assessment, I encountered unprecedented challenges. Despite my efforts to engage with the security team, they remained distant and uncooperative. Unlike previous experiences, they didn’t share critical information or involve me in their security processes.
Professionalism in Security Services
In most cases, security personnel take pride in their work and are eager to assist assessors. They demonstrate professionalism, even in challenging situations like a nighttime inspection of perimeter fences. This dedication ensures thorough assessments and proactive security measures.
Unexpected Obstacles
Yet, during one assessment, I faced unexpected obstacles. The security cameras failed to detect me initially, raising concerns about their effectiveness. Moreover, there was a lack of proactive engagement from the security team, which impacted the assessment’s thoroughness.
The Role of Assessors
As an assessor, my role isn’t to critique the service provider but to evaluate the security measures in place. This includes reviewing incident registers, management structures, and compliance with security protocols. Assessors ensure that clients receive the promised security standards and are prepared for potential risks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while most service providers uphold high standards, occasional challenges arise that affect assessment processes. Effective communication and collaboration between assessors and service providers are essential for achieving comprehensive security evaluations. By understanding each other’s roles and responsibilities, we can enhance security measures and ensure safer environments for all.
Understanding service providers and their interactions with assessors is crucial for maintaining security standards and fostering cooperation in professional environments.
Written by Andre Mundell Independent security risk assessor and consultant at Alwinco. # Security Risk Assessment Fourways
If you would like to learn more about our services or need additional information on security risk assessments, please send us an email or visit our website, Security Meetings, and subscribe to our newsletter.
Our security risk assessment projects primarily concentrate on the Gauteng Region, which encompasses Waterkloof, Randfontein, Carlswald, Rivonia, and Hatfield. In addition, we also have coverage of Bloemfontein, Bluff, and Cape Province.