Security Risk Assessment 

Independent security risk assessment  – Here’s a chilling statistic to kick things off:

South Africa’s crime rate has climbed steadily over the past six decades, even as security providers flood the market with advice and hardware. Sixty years! That’s a lifetime of effort from countless companies, yet the numbers keep rising. Something’s clearly off balance, and I’m here to unpack why that might be. Let’s talk about the missing link in physical security across South Africa. Too often, people skip a vital step: the Independent Security Risk Assessment. It’s not glamorous, and it doesn’t come with shiny gadgets, but it’s the foundation of protecting your property, whether it’s your home or your business. The trouble is many security providers gloss over its importance. Without a clear grasp of the real risks you face, picking the right measures becomes a guessing game. And guesswork doesn’t keep criminals out.

Now, don’t misunderstand me;

Security providers play a key role. They’re part of the solution, absolutely. But here’s the catch: when they handle the risk assessments themselves, it’s like asking a referee to suit up and score goals in the same match. There’s an inherent conflict. They’re selling the products-cameras, alarms, and gates—so their focus naturally shifts toward pushing those items. Subtle risks, the ones that don’t scream for a quick hardware fix, might get overlooked. That leaves your property vulnerable, and that’s a problem we can’t ignore.

The same issue crops up with in-house assessments.

When someone too close to the operation, say, a manager or staff member, tries to evaluate risks, familiarity clouds their judgment. They miss things. Big things. Objective analysis? Out the window. It’s a tricky spot to be in, wouldn’t you agree? So, who are we in this tangled security landscape? I’m glad you’re curious.

We’re Alwinco, an independent security risk assessment and consulting firm founded in 2006 by André Mundell.

Our name’s a nod to our motto, “Always in Control,” which sums up what we’re about: giving you the knowledge and power to master your security. Mundell brings over 40 years of experience, decades spent with the South African Police Service (SAPS), tackling crime prevention, and honing his skills in the security field.

At Alwinco, we’re here to guide you, whether you’re safeguarding a cozy home or a sprawling commercial site.

What makes us different? Here’s the standout fact: Alwinco is South Africa’s only independent security risk assessment company. We don’t sell hardware. We don’t install systems. That’s by design. Our advice stays pure, unswayed by sales quotas or profit margins. Our mission is simple: to educate you. A security risk pops up when a criminal’s intent and ability meet an opportunity. Often, you can squash that risk with small tweaks, changing a habit, staying alert, or tightening routines. It’s practical stuff, and it works.

All properties’ risks are unique, which is why a thorough, unbiased assessment is non-negotiable.

We see security as a web of interconnected pieces, not just a pile of gadgets. If one thread snaps—say, poor lighting or a lax procedure—the whole system unravels! Our assessors dig into these details during your assessment, delivering reports that don’t just list risks but explain them. Why does this matter? Because understanding the “why” empowers you to act. Oh, and confidentiality? Ironclad. We’ll never share your details to drum up extra business. What exactly do we do? Alwinco specializes in Independent Security Risk Assessments full stop. We’re here to arm you with clarity and control. Think of the assessment as your starting line. Before you buy a single lock or hire a guard, you need this groundwork. Our assessors zero in on risks, free from the sway of product pitches or past projects.

Mundell’s expertise shines here;

He examines every case from five different angles: the perspective of the criminal, whether internal or external; your own; that of the security provider; the established procedures; and the potential legal implications. That’s thoroughness you can trust. Our team’s ready to jump in, tapping specialists and informants when needed to get the full picture. Once we’ve pinpointed the risks, we hand you tailored solutions and specific, actionable steps to neutralize threats.

But here’s the line we draw: we don’t implement those fixes.

That’s for you and your providers to handle.

• For homes, we soften our approach a bit, keeping it personal.
• Businesses and estates? We treat them with the rigor they demand, like the complex systems they are.
An Alwinco assessment sets you and your security team up for success. You will effectively mitigate risks and stay ahead of the ever-shifting security trends in South Africa. It’s not just about protection; it’s about peace of mind.

# Independent security risk assessment

Click here to read more on the qualifications of an Independent security risk assessor.

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.

Covering all of South Africa, Alwinco provides Security Risk Assessments, particularly in Gauteng (Menlyn, Braamfontein, Kyalami, Fourways, and Hatfield), Bloemfontein, Bluff, and Houtbay.

Click here to read more on different types of assessments