Healthcare Archives - AR Security Services

In recent years the Welsh NHS has been increasingly under stress despite having increased budgets for a number of its services. Although the NHS is one of the biggest employers in Wales and the UK – it has seen a number of shortages which has had an effect on A&E waiting times and the performance of their services.

With so many relying on the NHS in Wales it is important that healthcare facilities and hospitals can deal with any threats from both patients and employees.

So, there are some questions to consider when implementing security in healthcare facilities and hospitals.

How often are risk assessments conducted?

Carrying out risk assessments is vital to ensure that you can spot potential hazards which could injure patients and staff, cause ill health or leave people in a vulnerable position. By holding regular risk assessments, hospitals can spot potential hazards before they cause major disruptions.

Are my staff subject to violence?

In Wales, alone there have been 18,000 reports of violent attacks, aggression or verbal abuse on staff either from patients or other employees in hospitals.

The most effective way to check that your staff are protected from violent behaviour is to install CCTV systems in areas such as entrance areas, reception areas, waiting areas, outside nurse stations and staff rooms and corridors.

Another way in which the situations can be avoided is by hiring security staff and station them in areas where there may potential for conflict.

Also implementing reporting systems will also help staff to record everything that happens, so evidence can be provided if any legal action is taken.

Are Medicines and hazardous substances secure?

To ensure medicines and hazardous substance are not stolen, ensure that they are locked away in secure cupboards and other secure locations within the building. For added extra security, ensure that doors and cupboards are PIN secured or padlocked when not in use to avoid anything being stolen or tampered with and conducts regular audits to ensure they don’t end up in the wrong hands.

What equipment needs to be updated or secured?

If equipment is outdated or in need of repair, make sure that they are replaced or fixed as soon as possible. Make sure that they are regularly checked and maintained, and any faulty machinery have warning signs to alert staff and patients no to use it.

How Secure are the staff entrances?

Within hospitals there are areas that the public cannot enter. But having doors or corridors without key card scanners or password protected doors can allow the public gain access to confidential records.

Is there help for staff suffering from stress?

Mental health well-being is something that can become compromised especially dealing with stressful situations on a regular basis. It is important to offer staff help if they feel overworked or unable to cope with the challenging demands that they face. Doing so ensure that staff are not overworked and reduce of medical mistakes.

A&R Security Services can provide comprehensive security solutions to healthcare facilities in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend and South Wales. If you are in need to Manned Guarding, Mobile Security or Concierge Services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Bridgend is a bustling town with good transport links to two of South Wales’ largest cities Cardiff and Swansea and is close to stunning scenic locations. But like many towns and cities – Bridgend is no stranger to crime. In recent months from June 2018 to June 2019, the total amount of crime reported in Bridgend has steadily fallen from 750-667 being reported.

But this doesn’t mean that business owners in Bridgend should let down their guard and relax. They are still at risk of becoming targets for criminal activities.

So, what strategies can implement to protect your business?

Lock and key:

Having a lock and key is a basic security measure but it works. However, some lock systems can be picked or easily damaged when a large amount of force is used. If you’re installing new doors or locks, make sure that they are British Standard BS3621 and bear the kitemark or are classed a lever 5 mortice deadlock. Alongside using a lock and key, you can also use roller shutters on windows and doors on the front and back of your business. This prevents criminals from looking into your business to see what is available to take but also stops them from damaging your property.

Keyfob/passcode systems:

Mostly used in medium to large premises Keyfob and passcode systems are great at limiting where people can access. For example, if you have a room or section of a building that shouldn’t be open for the public to enter, you can close it off with the use of a keyfob or passcode. This can also be used at the front of the property or by the reception area so that you can monitor who is coming in and out of your business.

Secure Keyholding:

Many business owners will leave a spare key with a trusted friend or business partner in case of emergencies. But Secure Keyholding services allow security staff to enter your property without anyone else having to be present and check for any disturbances if there has been an alert to one. Also if you are having work carried out of hours and don’t want to pay an employee overtime, your security provider can send someone to let contractors in and also monitor who is entering and exiting your building.

Alarm systems:

Alarm systems are readily available from many DIY stores and security providers such as ourselves. Alarm systems are effective at dissuading criminals at entering your property further by alerting anyone in the vicinity. But be aware, some alarm systems can go off without anything triggering it disturbing neighbours around the area. Most security providers such as ourselves can install and monitor alarm systems, responding to an alarm system going off.

Exterior Lighting:

60% of criminal activity associated with business happens under the cover of darkness. Installing exterior lighting can increase the security of your business – lighting areas of your property that are not normally visible to CCTV or Security Guards. Motion-activated lighting can be a very effective deterrent as any motion can activate the light making criminals feel exposed and caught.

Manned/Mobile Security:

Having security guards at your business is an effective deterrent to criminals. Manned guarding allows you to position guards in key areas such as front of house, access points and blind spots. Mobile guards allow you to have guards patrol your business at scheduled or unscheduled intervals putting criminals off from attempting to enter your property. Mobile guards can patrol your business externally and internally and can quickly respond to any emergencies or suspicious behaviour.

CCTV:

CCTV is frequently used in businesses throughout Bridgend and can be monitored either manually or remotely. Depending on the system you are using – you can place a number of cameras around the outside and inside of your property in inconspicuous areas. CCTV allows either yourself or your security guards to monitor for any suspicious activity and can quickly respond to any disturbances.

A&R Security Services are providers of commercial security solutions. From alarm installations and monitoring to manned and mobile guarding, we can provide professionally tailored services with that personal touch. For more information about our security services – visit our website or call 01656 713950

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Is your hospital security at risk?