A&R Security Services provides security services to businesses across South Wales and the South West/

A&R Security Services provides:

Keyholding & Alarm Response Services

Manned Guarding

Mobile Patrol

 

Posts

Security Services, Security, A&R Security Services, Digital Occurrence Book

Has your security provider invested in new technologies?

/0 Comments/in /by

The development of technologies and the way we now think has changed and shaped how the security industry provides effective services to commercial properties across South Wales.

With CCTV and alarm system installations and monitoring now a basic service provided, professional security providers are looking at more innovative technologies to not only help protect their clients but to also make their guards’ jobs more efficient.

Here at A&R Security services we understand that to be the best security provider, you need to invest in new technologies. We have invested in a number of new technologies that have benefited both our guards and our clients including a StaySafe app that can be used to locate our security guards in an emergency and send immediate help, digital checkpoints where our guards log their checkpoint within a certain time and more recently digital daily occurrence books.

But what is a digital Daily Occurrence Book?

Just like a physical copy the digital daily occurrence book allows our security guards to digitally log their duties and any incidents that could have occurred during their shifts. As the system is cloud-based and digital it removes our need to use physical copies (helping us reduce our paper wastage and become more environmentally friendly) and can be accessed from any logged system or device.

Having this cloud-based system not only means that it can be used in any building or location, but it also allows our clients, the properties building manager and our security managers to view and monitor our security guards daily duties. Also, as all the data inputted is dated and timed, it can be used as evidence should an incident occur on site.

 

A&R Security Services provide a range of professional security services that can be tailored to suit your needs. We can provide effective concierge security right through to key holding and alarm response services. To find out more about our services or would like a free no-obligation quote call us on 01656 713950

Delivery Driver, Delivery Drivers, Stole, Vehicle, Delivery Vehicle, Cardiff, South Wales

Cardiff: Are Delivery Drivers Safe from Theft?

/0 Comments/in /by

Christmas is often a stressful year for some, with many scrambling to get to our high streets to get everything ready for the big day. However, with the Coronavirus still around, people are being urged to maintain social distancing when shopping it’s resulted in many avoiding their high street and taking to online shopping to their shopping done.

Although statistics regarding sales in November have yet to be released yet, in October 2020 the National Office of Statistics found that in the month of October food sales increased by 99.2%, department store sales increased by 87.2% and other non-food stores by 89.7%.

And with a majority of online sales being made at the largest retailer Amazon, there has been an increased number of delivery drivers, delivering our precious orders. However, with this increase in sales and deliveries, there has also been an increase in delivery van thefts.

Earlier this month, South Wales Police released footage showing a delivery driver pulling up to a property and delivering parcels in Bridge Street in the Centre of Cardiff. Moments later a person sees the van left running and open and immediately climbs into the cabin and leaves with the van and all the parcels inside. You can see the footage on their social media page here https://fb.watch/2iYoQ4QDHh/

And this isn’t the only theft. Another delivery vehicle was stolen in Llanrumney containing 30 parcels – some of which were later found discarded in a nearby lane.

South Wales Police are still investigating the theft of these vehicles and their contents so if you have any information regarding this please get in touch with them.

In another part of the UK, one delivery driver hung onto his van while a thief stole his vehicle in an attempt to stop his vehicle from being stolen. You can read more here

Following this recent spate of delivery van thefts, South Wales Police have issued some advice to delivery drivers delivering parcels this Christmas.

Remove keys and lock vehicle doors.

Whenever the vehicle is left attended, even for a second it’s important that you remove the keys and lock your vehicle. This includes paying for fuel, making a delivery, or receiving instructions.

Lock your doors when driving

Drive with the doors locked in order to deter thieves who may try to enter the vehicle when it’s stationary. If anti-theft systems are fitted make sure they are working and use them.

Park at approved locations

If you are parking the vehicle overnight, park them at approved locations and avoid dark isolated places. Try to park in a way that prevents thieves from gaining access to the rear doors. If you have a fleet of vehicles that are returned to a parking lot in the evenings, then you may want to read our recent blog here on how to protect them.

Be aware of bogus officials

It can be easy to assume that when someone is wearing a uniform and ID badge their official. However, you could be wrong. It’s important that you are aware of bogus official (who could be wearing stolen uniforms). It’s also important not to be distracted by other delivery drivers alerting or stopping you for supposed punctures, accidents, etc.

If a theft is being carried out on your vehicle stay in your cab

If you have pulled up to a location (whether that is for a delivery or parked for a break) and you realise that a theft is being carried out on your van, do not confront them. Stay in your cab. Lock the doors, start the engine, switch on the lights and if necessary, sound the horn to attract attention.

Be Alert

When driving, most of our attention is fixated on the road and traffic ahead of us. However, it’s important to take note of any vehicles behind you and ensure that they aren’t following you to a number of locations along your delivery route.

Have a fully charged phone

Whether your vehicle is being burgled while you’re in it or it has been stolen while your delivering, it’s important that you have a fully charged phone at hand to report any incidents to the police.

If you have been in an incident where your vehicle has been broken into or stolen, then contact South Wales Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Here at A&R Security Services, we understand the devasting feeling and effect a stolen vehicle can create to anyone. If you require security solutions for your fleet of vehicles or even your property then get in touch with us on 01656 713950 or visit our website to see how our tailored security solutions can protect your business.

Christmas, Christmas Security, Business Security, Security Services, A&R Security Services,

How to keep your business secure this Christmas?

/0 Comments/in /by

This year has been a year of differences, with the current pandemic turning everything that we normally do and put it on its head. However, with the year nearly coming to an end, people’s and business’ focuses are turned to that magical and slightly stressful time of the year. Christmas!

Christmas is a time of celebration, festive cheer, and spending time with loved ones. But for some businesses, Christmas isn’t always merry and bright. Although the current pandemic has changed how people celebrate Christmas (with Christmas work parties now either on hold or held virtually) leading to a reduced number of those being drunk and disorderly, there are still others out there that are out to cause mayhem during the Christmas period.

So, what can you do to protect your business this Christmas?

Plan

For many businesses’, Christmas is a time where they start to slow down or pause their normal operations during the festive period. However, if you are planning to slow operations down and not have that many staff on-site, you’ll need to plan how your business will be protected while you’re away. You can do this by investing in CCTV, Mobile patrols, or concierge/manned guards. Or a combination of all three.

Is your alarm working and who has the keys?

Alarm systems are the first line of defence when it comes to protecting your business and will often scare off intruders if set off. However, before you leave for the festive period, ensure that your alarm system is in full working order. If it isn’t your insurance may not cover any damage or theft that may occur.  Also, who is going to hold onto the extra set of keys? It can be easy to ask another member of staff to hold onto an extra set of keys in case of emergencies. However, if you want an added level of security for your business and give you peace of mind, we at A&R Security services can provide Key Holding & Alarm Response services that allow us to hold onto an extra set of keys, check your business and quickly respond to any alarm call-outs. You can read more reasons to have key holding service here

Make yourself look busy

The busier you look the less likely you’ll get targeted by criminals looking to cause damage or to steal valuable equipment and stock. However, if you are closed over the festive period how are you going to make your business look busy? Investing in timers for your lights will make it look like your business is working it’s normal hours, besides you and your staff not being there. But if this isn’t an option then you may want to invest in our Manned Guards. Our manned guards can be stationed outside of your property’s main entrance or even provide concierge security, making your business look busy and in use – deterring anyone looking to cause Christmas mayhem.

Lights

Although outdoor Christmas lights are pretty to look at, they don’t offer that much protection against criminals. As the nights have drawn in, it increases that chances for criminals to strike your business under the cover of darkness and if you have a large-sized business or have a business spread over multiple buildings or sites it can be easier for criminals to strike. Investing in motion-activated or timed security lighting can easily deter criminals from your business and make you look less of an easy target. You can read which security lighting is best here.

Be flexible

It can be easy to think that your alarm system, CCTV, and security lighting is enough to protect your business from harm. However, it is a good idea to invest in more robust security measures such as mobile security. Our Mobile security offers a more flexible approach to protecting your business and can patrol your business internally and externally at agreed intervals – making your business look less of a target.

The current Coronavirus Pandemic has already made 2020 a stressful year so don’t let criminals ruin your Christmas.

If you are looking for keyholding services, mobile patrols, manned guarding or concierge security for your business over the festive period then get in touch with us.

A&R Security Services can provide comprehensive security solutions to businesses in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport and South Wales. For more information visit our website or a free quotation call us on 01656 338705

Catalytic Converter, Security Services, Catalytic Converter Thefts, Vehicle Damage, Vehicle Damage

Catalytic Converter Thefts Soar!

/0 Comments/in /by

Across the UK, Car owners have been urged to take steps to protect both their vehicles from organised crimes surrounding catalytic converters.

According to an investigation conducted by the BBC, thefts of the essential exhaust components rocketed by 600% last year, with drivers footing the bill to replace stolen parts.

Recently, a family in Newport warned other residents to be vigilant after thieves stole their cars catalytic converter. You can read more here

In 2018, there were an estimated 2,000 reports of catalytic converters stolen in England and Wales, but in 2019, the figure rocketed up to nearly 13,000.

But why are catalytic converters being targeted?

Catalytic converters help control and convert vehicle emissions and are seen as an easy high-value target for criminals looking to make quick money. Catalytic converters contain a wealth of precious metals, including rhodium, palladium and platinum which can all be stripped out and sold on or the whole unit can be sold as a spare part – making it virtually untraceable.

With the recent development of hybrid technology, hybrid vehicles are particularly vulnerable as they tend to have lower emissions, meaning the metals in the catalytic converters are less corroded that in traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.

For owners who have been a victim of theft of their Catalytic converter could see a repair bill of more the £1,000. And recently the AA reported that claims can reach as much as £3,000 depending on the damaged the thieve caused when removing the part.

What do the safety experts say?

Clive Wain, head of police liaison at vehicle recovery specialist Tracker, said Owners need to make sure their vehicles are protected from thieves who often simply jack the vehicle up and unbolt the part.

He said “plugin and self-charging hybrids are a highly desirable target for thieves as their catalytic converters, which turn noxious gases (carbon dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Nitrogen Oxides) in a cars exhaust into less harmful substances, are less corroded than those in a traditional vehicle.

“But there are some simple steps that owners can take to protect their vehicle, including physical barriers to make thieves think twice before targeting their car”

  • Park in a garage or other secure area: if you don’t have access to a garage, try to leave your car in a well-lit and overlooked area.
  • Install CCTV: The one thing thieves don’t want to do is get caught on camera. Installing cameras allows you to monitor your car and catch anyone who is looking to target it.
  • Consider installing a Thatcham approved alarm to your vehicle: As catalytic converters are located towards the front and underneath the car, many thieves will require a jack to gain access to the part. Installing a Thatcham alarm will alert you to your car either being lifted or tilted.
  • Use a catalytic converter protection device: Such as a Catloc or Catclamp which make it hard to access the converter, or have the device etched with a unique serial number.

For further tips on how you can properly protect your vehicle from thieves take a look at our blog here

For more information about our professional Security Services and how they can effectively protect you and your business contact us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for further details.

Security Provider, Security Services, A&R Security, A&R Security Services, Manned Guarding, Mobile Patrols, Concierge Security

What are the 8 main things you should consider when looking for a security provider?

/0 Comments/in /by

When you type security provider into a search engine, hundreds of thousands of security companies pop up and can make you feel overwhelmed – especially if you are unsure of which provider is best suited to you and your business.

Here at A&R Security Services, we understand that when looking for a professional security provider, there is a lot to consider such as:

  • What services do they provide?
  • Do they have a good track record of keeping businesses safe?
  • Will they suit my business and fulfil my needs?

And choosing the right one is a big decision to make, as the one you choose will be protecting your business from physical threats when you’re not there. Knowing you can count on your security provider should be the top priority when choosing and to help you make the right decision, take a look at the top 10 things you should consider when hiring a security company.

Are they and their officers fully insured and licensed?

In order for a security provider to offer security services, they need to have the right licenses and insurances in place. SIA (Security Industry Association) is the governing body for the private security sector and if the security providers guards do not hold an SIA license, they will be breaking the law and face up to 6 months in prison or receive a hefty fine. So before choosing a provider, ask for evidence that all of their guards are fully licensed to operate. Also, you should see their insurance policies and check that they have the right insurances in place to cover your property should there be any incidents.

Are they able to provide you with the services you need?

When you look at a business, no two are the same and require different services to suit their needs. When looking for a professional security provider, it is always good to have an idea of what you are after. This helps reduce your search but also give you the ability to ask specific questions about the services that they provide and whether or not they are the best fit for you.

However, when you are looking for security services you may have several security services working with each other. For example, if you’re a construction site or large corporate office block, you may need manned guards, concierge services, mobile patrols and key holding and alarm response services. So it is important to see if they offer a range of services.

Do they put customer service first?

Although you are looking for a security provider to provide you with professional security services for your business you should also look at how they provide those services. We all like to be treated like we are special, so you would want a security provider that is willing to go above and beyond to ensure that you are happy with the service that they are providing. Choosing a security provider that puts their customer service at the heart of everything they do will help avoid any hassle further down the line.

What are their customers saying about them?

Most often the best way to find out how well a security provider performs is by speaking to their customers directly. Customers have an impartial voice when it comes to the services they are paying for and can help you reach a decision on whether or not the security provider you are looking at is the right choice for you.

You could also look at your network and ask for recommendations or look at online testimonials and reviews about their customers experience with them.

And let’s be honest, you wouldn’t make a big purchase without reading the reviews, so why should a security provider be any different?

Are their guards multiskilled?

As mentioned before, security guards need to hold a valid SIA license that allows them to operate within the security industry. But it is always good to ask what else their guards can offer? Investing in multi-skilled guards can prove cost-effective.

Costs

Employing your own security team may seem like the easier option but in actual fact, it isn’t. When employing your own security team, there are hidden costs such as uniform, training, insurances and SIA licensing – So employing the services of a professional security provider is a much better option.

However, when looking for a professional security provider, the costs will be the biggest things to consider. And as they say “cheaper isn’t always best” and will result in you paying out extra to fix your providers mistakes. So, when looking for a provider be willing to invest a bit more in a higher quality service.

Industry experience

There are many security providers that are at different stages of their experience. Although going with a newer security provider may provide them with experience, it could lead to teething problems and potentially costly mistakes.

So, when investing in a security provider it is always good to go with one that has the experience and knowledge needed to ensure that your business is kept safe.

Are they flexible?

When looking for a professional security provider and looking at their services, it is always good to ask if they have flexibility with their services. For example, you may only need security services for a couple of months, only require patrols in the evening or require security staff to work certain shift patterns. However, if you require a more regular service then a fixed long-term contract is best suited to you to ensure that you get a continuous security service.

For more information about our security services call our head office team on 01656 713950 or visit our website

Vacent Property, Unoccupied, Security, Commercial Security, Security Services, Coronavirus, Vacant, Manned Guard, Concierge Security, Mobile Patrols

What are the 5 biggest risks of leaving your commercial property vacant?

/0 Comments/in /by

The current Coronavirus pandemic has affected thousands of businesses within Wales and the UK, causing businesses to continue their operations from home or having to furlough their staff – leaving commercial properties empty and easy targets for criminals.

Whilst having employees working from home is helping the nation keep moving and maintain productivity, leaving your commercial property empty could leave you at risk of crime, damage to your property or accidents – all of which could cost you money and a massive headache.

We understand that the safety of your staff is your priority right now, but you still want a property that they can go back to when the pandemic is over, and restrictions have lifted. So, to ensure that your property is kept safe whilst your employees are working remotely, here are 5 of the biggest risks that you can avoid.

Crime and Vandalism

For criminals, an empty property is a very attractive target, even if you’ve emptied out valuable assets. However, do not underestimate criminals who will go to extreme lengths to make quick cash. Wiring containing high valued metals, copper piping and radiators all have considerable value and most criminals won’t think twice about tearing your premises apart and selling every last bit of it for scrap. And it’s not just criminals that target buildings for their scrap value that you have to look out for. Vandals and delinquents can also be attracted by an empty property and can easily cause thousands of pounds worth of damages, with you having to pay for the repair work and clean up.

How to protect your property:

There are a number of ways you can dissuade criminals from targeting your premises whilst it lays empty.

  • Ensure that all access points such as emergency exits and entry points are fitted with looks or door reinforcements.
  • If you know your property is to be vacant for a large period of time, it may wise to consider boarding up the windows and doors.
  • Invest in professional security services such as mobile patrol security, manned guards, CCTV systems and alarm response services. Having a strong security presence at your property can easily dissuade criminals from targeting your premises and risking them getting caught.

Squatters

With homelessness within our cities on the increase, many will look too empty properties to find shelter from the elements. And with the employees working from home, your property could be the perfect target. Squatting refers to the practice of occupying or living in an empty or abandoned property without the permission or knowledge of the owner. Even though squatting in residential property was deemed illegal in 2012, the laws surrounding squatting in commercial properties is a bit more complicated in the eyes of the law.

According to GOV.UK being on someone’s non-residential property without their permission isn’t a criminal offence but a civil offence – meaning property owners must obtain a court order and issue claim against the squatters for eviction.  However, if other crimes such as the theft, damage or the using of utilities are committed this could help speed up the process and result in the arrest of the squatters.

How to protect your property:

  • Ensure your property is properly secure and alarmed.
  • Have yourself or security guard perform regular checks on your building for signs of forced entry.
  • Turn off/disconnect utilities.
  • Hire a 24/7 security guard to man the property and deter any entry.
  • Consider mobile patrol services to check on the property and respond to any alarm call outs and suspicious activity.

Fire or Water damage

Whether caused by accident or intentionally done, fire and flooding can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage, leaving you to foot the repair bills and preventing your business or offices from reopening when you can.

With the winter month turning colder, many properties with older water systems are at greater risk of water pipes bursting and causing damage. However, burst pipes don’t mean a huge burst causing gallons of water to flood an office or business. When water freezes it expands, causing pipes to crack or come loose at joints and when the temperature increases, water can easily leak out of these damaged areas. And if your property is unoccupied, it could be days or weeks before anyone notices that there is a leak. And the longer the leak is left undiscovered and dealt with, the more damage and the bigger the repair bill will be.

Fire is the most destructive and if the fire is not tackled quick enough, it could lead to you losing your property and whatever other assets you have inside. Although some fire damages are caused accidentally (faulty wiring /electrics) most are caused by arson attacks and for arsonists, an empty property is a perfect target. Within the UK there are around 60 fires a day occurring in or near vacant or abandoned properties in the UK.

How to protect your property:

  • If your property is vacant for a long period of time, turn off your water supply at the mains.
  • To avoid your pipes freezing during the winter months, put your boiler system on a timer.
  • Hire a professional mobile patrol to conduct patrols within your business to check of any leaks or burst pipes.
  • Consider outsourcing your key holding services, so your property is accessible 24/7 to make essential repairs.

To protect from fire:

  • Check that your property follows fire regulations and ensure that your insurance covers fire damage and is valid.
  • Perform regular fire alarm tests to ensure it is working correctly and is able to detect any fires and smoke.

Loss of assets

Some businesses who have vacated their premise for a long period of time would have either removed or stored much of their assets away from prying eyes. However, if you’ve taken the decision to leave your property vacant for a short period of time and left valuable assets out on display, then you are going to attract criminals looking to make quick cash. However, if you’re a larger business, removing assets from your property isn’t a viable option especially if you are looking to quickly bring your employees back to work.

How to protect your assets:

  • Ensure that all doors and windows leading to and within office spaces/work areas are closed and secured.
  • Audit all assets that are within your premises before leaving and perform another when returning to ensure nothing has been taken.
  • Register or mark assets with a UV pen so they can be returned if stolen.
  • Set your alarm systems to ensure any break-ins are detected
  • Consider investing in alarm response services to ensure that every alarm activation is thoroughly investigated and resolves, minimising hassles and danger for you and your employees.

Invalid insurance

With the recent government announcements for employees to work from home once again in Wales, it can be easy to assume that your insurance provides cover for your property if it is vacant for a large period of time. But this isn’t always the case and if your property has been a target for criminal activity whilst vacant, it could see your insurance not paying out on repairs.

Before you leave your property, you should notify your insurance provider of your decision and check the details in your policy surrounding the vacating of your property for long periods of time. Depending on the policy you have, your insurance may be reduced or become invalid if your property has been vacant for a long period of time and classified as unoccupied (typically after 30-45 consecutive days). As empty buildings are at greater risk of crime, damage, and decay, you may need to purchase further unoccupied insurance to ensure that your premises and its contents are protected.

How to protect your property

  • Consult with your insurance provider and check how long your property can remain unoccupied before the insurance is reduced or becomes invalid.
  • If you surpass their limit, ensure you update your cover.

What else can you do to protect your property?

Although we have highlighted some suggestions that you can implement yourself, you can take further steps to protect your building. And that is investing in a reliable, experienced and professional security provider such as A&R Security Services.

Here at A&R Security Services we service a large number of commercial properties within South Wales and offer a range of effective security services such as:

  • 24/7 Concierge security
  • Manned Guard Security
  • Mobile patrols services
  • Key holding
  • Alarm Response Services
  • And much more

To learn more about our professional security services give our friendly team a call on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Crime rate, Crimes, Unemployment, Cardiff, Pandemic, COVID-19, Business Security, A&R Security Services, Security Services, Manned guards, mobile Patrols

Is the rise in unemployment causing a rise in crimes?

/0 Comments/in /by

Since the COVID-19 landed on our shores, over 300,000 people in Wales have been on furlough up to the end of June 2020 – representing 28.9% of the Welsh workforce.

But despite the furlough scheme supporting employees and businesses and Wales slowly taking steps to return to normal, Wales and the UK’s economy is facing an economic downturn, with their already being high numbers of unemployment due to job cuts. Now with the government announcing that the furlough scheme will be ending in October 2020, the number of those becoming unemployed will increase further. Leading to one thing – high levels of crime.

Throughout history, there has been a correlation between large numbers of unemployment and increased levels of crime. In Cardiff County, statistics from South Wales Police show that between March and May (when lockdown was enforced) there has been a 50% increase in crimes – with Anti-social behaviour, Violent Crimes and Public order being the highest crimes reported.

Now with industries feeling the effects of the recent lockdown in Wales – there will be more and more people resorting to criminal activities such as theft and vandalism in an attempt to make quick money from stolen goods.

And for businesses who have been able to remain open and continue operating, this is bad news. So, it makes sense to invest in more robust security measures with a professional security provider that you can trust to protect your business.

Choosing the right security provider that can provide effective security to suit your needs

It may be easy to cut security measures to save money during these difficult times, but investing in more robust security measures can save you money and a lot of headaches in the long run. So, it’s important that your choose a security provider who can easily full fill your security needs.

For us, we understand that no two businesses are the same and can facilitate a business’ unique security needs and create bespoke security contracts that offer the best protection.

We understand that for some business’ it may be just key holding & alarm response services that they need for or for larger businesses, they may need 24-hour manned guards and/or mobile patrols services to provide suitable protection from criminals.

We can offer a range of bespoke services that can effectively protect your business. Including:

  • Keyholding & Alarm Response Services
  • Manned Guarding
  • Mobile Patrols
  • Concierge / Front of house Security
  • Construction Security

Whether your business holds large amounts of stock, operates 24 hours of the day – 7 days a week, covers a large area or is in a remote location, we can provide effective security services to ensure that your business is fully protected during these difficult times.

For more information about our security services visit our website or to arrange a no-obligation quote give us a call on 01656 713950.

Concierge Security, Concierge Security Services, Security Services,Security, A&R Security Services

Concierge Security: 5 reasons why you should have it

/0 Comments/in /by

Whether you are a corporate building, a lavish hotel in the heart of the city centre or a manufacturing unit based in outskirts, they all need one thing. Security. In Swansea, there are hundreds of security providers offering a range of security services that will protect your business including concierge security.

But what is concierge security we hear you ask?
Concierge Security acts as another form of receptionist where they greet visitors to your building, take messages and answer any queries. But Concierge security staff also have the ability to control access to your building (whether that is internal or external) monitor CCTV, quickly respond to any emergency situations and apprehend criminals targeting your business.

So, what are the 5 reasons why you should have concierge security?

Instant protection

There are many benefits to having concierge security and one of the main benefits of having concierge security is instant support in terms of safety and patrols.  Not only can concierge monitor CCTV and raise alarms should there be anything threatening the safety of your business, but they also have the correct skills and training to handle and diffuse potential criminal situations.

By hiring concierge security for your business, you will have someone who is watching for any potential threats to your business. Giving you peace of mind that you can leave your premises lone for long periods of time.

Fully Vetted and Trained Staff

When looking for concierge security it is important to hire fully vetted, licensed and trained staff to protect your business. All of our staff are employed directly by us and are fully vetted by ourselves, ensuring that they are legally allowed to work within specific buildings and areas and are trained to the highest of standards.

Employing your own security staff can be tricky and a bit headache-inducing so letting a professional security provider that is able to fully vet and train their own staff, leaving you more time to focus on running your business and us taking care of the security.

It’ll save you money

We all like to save a bit of money where we can but outsourcing your concierge security can do the same. As you only need to pay for one service you don’t have to deal with pay, uniform, training and vetting costs. Outsourcing your concierge means you pay for specific staff as and when you need them and what’s great about outsourcing your concierge to us, you only have to pay for the services you want (no hidden costs or price hikes).

5-star customer service

You want to give your customers and visitors a face that they can trust when they walk into your building. Having concierge stationed by your reception will allow them to greet clients and visitors to your business and answer any queries or concerns that they may have.

Alongside providing clients and visitors with 5-star customer service, they can ensure that they receive all the regular protection they need. Concierge security can arrange emergency procedures and can ensure that any incidents are fully logged and taken care of.

Clients and visitors so to your business will find concierge a wealth of knowledge and information, as well as help. They will make sure that your business is fully protected and that your guests receive full answers to their burning questions.

Takes the hassle off your hands

When thinking about concierge security for your business it can be very tempting to employ security staff yourself but with further inspection, it can be both timeconsuming and expensive. And think about the other hassle you need to deal with such as welcoming and checking in guests, making sure security protocols are being adhered to.

So, outsourcing your concierge security is a bit of a no brainer. You won’t have to worry about vetting or checking anyone that comes or goes from your business. Our professional security staff can be set to work in establishing a firm but friendly face at the front of your business. They’ll follow your security protocols and will make sure that your CCTV and other security measures are monitored and analysed.

Running a business can take up a lot of your time and you may not have thought or considered concierge security for your business, but there are plenty of reasons why it can benefit you and your business in the long run.

Rather than having to focus on employing your own security staff and training them, why not look at hiring concierge security from a security provider that you can fully trust.

A&R Security provides a wide range of security services that have benefited many businesses across South Wales and the South West. If you are considering Concierge Security for your business visit our website or call us on 01656 713950 for a free non-obligation quote.

Construction, Lockdown, Coronavirus, COVID-19, Construction Security Services, A&R Security Services

Lockdown: How to protect your Construction Site

/0 Comments/in /by

Those who work within the construction industry know that there are high levels of crime, with many reporting theft and vandalism on a regular basis. However, with only essential construction being carried out during the Coronavirus outbreak, many sites across Cardiff, Newport, Swansea and the UK have had to temporarily close their gates – leaving them vulnerable to criminal activity.

A survey carried out by the CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) reported that 92% of sites claim to be affected by crime with a further 21% of sites saying that they are stolen from on a regular basis. These figures are often attributed to high staff turnover, poor record-keeping and poor security measures.

However, there are some cost-effective security measures that you can implement to boost your construction sites security during these difficult times.

Risk Assessment

Before spending vast amounts of money to improve your construction sites security it is best to have a risk assessment carried out by a professional security provider. This will help you identify which areas will need security, which areas will need improvement and ensure that your security is covering all possible areas of weakness on your site.

Construction Security

Professional Security providers like ourselves will provide professional construction security services to sites. But to many sites construction security is a little bit of an unknown, with many site owners not really knowing what it is or what it does.

Construction Security is an umbrella term and usually entails services such as:

  • CCTV monitoring
  • Alarm response
  • Manned Guards and Mobile Patrols
  • Access Control
  • Secure Keyholding

Construction Security is very good for covering all aspects of security and can be easily tailored to suit your site’s needs while it is temporarily closed.

Alongside having construction security for your site there are a few other measures that can be implemented to give you tighter security.

Create and maintain an up-to-date log

Whether your site is on a small scale or large scale, you will have materials, equipment and possibly vehicles left on site (preferably secured). However, there are employees or criminals that will take advantage of the fact that your site is temporarily closed and will take this opportunity to steal anything that they can get their hands on.

Creating and maintaining an up-to-date log of materials, equipment and vehicles will help you keep track of what is and isn’t onsite – allowing you to quickly respond and report anything stolen. After all emergency services such as the police have a better chance at returning stolen good when they are reported missing quickly.

Have a clear zone around your perimeter

Fencing is a very basic security measure to keep trespassers off your site. However, if your fencing is close to the perimeter of your site this will make it very easy for criminals to sneak in and out of your site without anyone noticing.

When installing fencing on your site, ensure that it is a couple of meters away from the site itself. This will make it harder for criminals to sneak onto your site and easier for you, your guards or CCTV to spot them trespassing onto your site. It also makes it difficult for criminals to see what is actually stored on your site.

Mark Equipment

Equipment such as mini diggers, generators, heavy tools and other equipment can be very easy targets and are often stolen and quickly sold on. Engraving marks on your equipment will make them less likely to be stolen and if they are, they are easily recognisable.

Most tools on construction sites are metal so engraving certain numbers, your company logo or symbol will easily deter thieves. Engraving tools are cheap, readily available and easy to use, but the amount of money and time they will save you could be substantial. Some tools are interchangeable or can be broken down for easier transportation so make sure to engrave multiple areas.

Reduce access points

If you have a reduced team of workers working during your lockdown, then you may want to reduce the number of access points you have. This allows you or your security team to easily track who is coming in and out of your site and also ensure that your workers aren’t able to sneak off-site with valuable materials or equipment through another gate on site.

Reducing the number of access points make your perimeter stronger but your main access points (main gates) are still vulnerable. Placing CCTV camera’s, security lights and manned guards at your main access points will reduce the chances of someone attempting to get onto your site illegally.

If you are interested in our Construction Security Services then please visit our website for more information or contacts us on 01656 713950 to arrange a free quotation.

Card, fraud, contactless, Security, Security Services, A&R Security Services, Card fraud

Contactless card payment increase: Does this pose a great risk for card fraud?

/0 Comments/in /by

From Wednesday 1st April, rules surrounding contactless payments will change with the limit being increased from £30 to £45. With social distancing now in effect to control the spread of the Coronavirus, retailers want to limit the amount of cash that staff are handling.

However, with the increased limit on contactless payments does this pose a greater increase for card fraud?

In September 2019, fraud prevention rules came into play where you would have to input your pin for one in every five contactless payments. Around South Wales and the UK, we make around 700 million contactless transactions to pay for our goods. However, £108 million is said to be lost to fraud with 1 in 12 people admitting that they wouldn’t spot a rogue £20 entry on their bank statements.

However, to stop thieves going on a massive spending spree on your debit or credit card, payments can be blocked if the number of payments adds up to more than £100 within 5 payments.

But even with these security features in place, there are exceptions where thieves can use your card without being blocked.

Public transport

With buses, trains, train stations all adopting contactless payments it can be easy for thieves to spend your money using your card multiple times without having to input the cards pin number.

Google or Apple Pay

Google or Apple pay are features that are on everyone’s smartphones. Although you do not need to input a pin after making 5 payments, they often ask for some kind of ID (fingerprint or facial recognition).

Stay safe

The SGA or Strong Customer Authentication will help prevent fraudulent spends on your debit or credit card but to ensure that you know to stay safe here are some tips:

Check your bank statements regularly

With banks becoming increasingly paperless many of us receive our bank statements online. However, to keep track of your transactions, it’s recommended to download banking apps and set up alerts for spending.

If you have looked at your account and see unusual transactions contact your bank immediately and have your account frozen. Contactless fraud is treated like any other type of fraud and so any transactions that were carried out without your knowledge should be repaid as long as you can prove that you haven’t been negligent.

If you have checked your account and think that you are a victim of fraud, then you should report it as soon as you can to Action Fraud either using their online tool or by calling them directly.

Check your credit report

Running a credit report does more than showing you how well your finances are and your eligibility for finance and loans. It can help you spot any suspicious activity – for example, if someone uses your credit card or tries to open a bank account in your name it will show.

If you are interested in commercial security services then visit our website or call us on 01656 713950