Why Should Your Business Invest in Static Guarding Services?

Why Your Business Needs Static Security Guarding Services?

Security is a priority for all businesses, no matter their size or the industry they are in. Static guarding services are often used by medium to large businesses as a way of providing an effective way to protect their premises, assets and people. These trained professionals that are based at a given location act as both a deterrent to crime and a quick response team for emergencies. This article will tell you why businesses hire static security services by highlighting the motivators behind the initial undertaking of the service and the immediate value they bring and how the whole static security service can be tailored to fit specific industries and challenges. Static guards offer businesses, their employees, owners and stakeholders peace of mind and tangible benefits no matter what industry they service, whether it is retail, construction, healthcare or hospitality. 

2. Why Do Businesses Need Static Guarding?

No business is immune to security risks whether it is theft of assets or theft of intellectual property, intruders and criminals will always be lurking in the shadows if the reward is greater than the risk. Having a static guard on-site ensures risks and threats are minimised. If a static guard can stop an incident from occurring in the first place they will, otherwise they will serve as an immediate first person on scene as a reaction to a live incident and mitigate it to the best of their ability, whilst escalating it where necessary.

Static guards also add a layer of professionalism to a given premises. Their presence reassures visitors, employees and clients that safety is a priority for the business and that they value their staffs wellbeing and have adequately apportioned the resources to protect their property. This is especially important for industries like retail, where theft can be a constant worry, or for construction sites, where expensive equipment or diesel is often targeted. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), theft and burglary cost UK businesses over £9 billion annually.

 3. What Are the Benefits of Investing in Static Guarding?

When you invest in static guarding, you’re are investing in guarantees that your business or property will be looked after. Here are some of the natural key benefits that customer of the service reap:

• Crime deterrence: The visible security measures such as a uniformed guard will make your premises far less attractive to criminals who will generally seek a softer target with similar assets.
• Rapid response: Should anything go wrong, static guards are already on-site to handle the situation quickly and effectively.
• Customer and employee confidence: Safety and security is one of the most important aspects of life, so don’t under estimate the affect it has on your employee turnover and customer retention. 
• Improved reputation: A secure business is a trusted business. Clients and customers are more likely to work with companies that take safety seriously. According to PwC’s Global Consumer Insights Survey, 59% of customers consider safety and security a main factor when choosing a business.

Static guarding it’s about creating a positive and secure environment where losses are kept to a minimum and the workforce can thrive in a safe environment.. 

4. Which Industries Benefit the Most From Static Guarding?

While nearly any business can benefit from static guarding, some industries do rely heavily on using static guards due to the unique challenges they face. Here are a few clear cut examples:

• Retail: Shoplifting is at an all time high in the UK and security guards can detect and apprehend shoplifters, recovering goods.
• Construction: With expensive equipment and materials often left on-site overnight and on weekends, static guards provide essential protection around the clock.
• Healthcare: Violent incidents in hospitals are unfortunately commonplace so guards are often used to protecting staff and patients in this setting where tensions or emergencies can arise.
• Technology Companies: Safeguarding IP, people, assets, and sensitive data for companies that must remain GDPR compliant and neutralise any external threats requires on-site security.
• Event management: Static guards are used at events of all sizes from a private party to a large media launch. Discretion, crowd control and managing the guest list and disruption to the smooth running of the event are just some of the duties static guards undertake at events.

No matter the industry there is an application and argument for having a licensed security professional on site.

5. How Do the Costs Compare to the Value?

If you haven’t hired static guards before you might wonder whether the cost is worth it. The answer from our experience is a resounding “yes.” While there’s an upfront expense, the return on investment can be significant when you consider the potential losses from theft, vandalism, or even just the reputational damage caused by a security breach.

From our clients feedback, we have seen static guarding improve productivity as employees and customers feel safer, which can lead to better morale and loyalty. The cost of not having adequate security can often be far greater than the investment in keeping a premises protected. Businesses often get thrust into having a sudden need to guarding due to a serious burglary or threat made to the business or it’s staff. Rather than having a knee jerk reaction to your security needs, carefully consider the options after conducting a thorough security needs risk assessment.

6. How Do You Choose the Right Static Guarding Provider?

Selecting a reliable provider is probably one of the most important factors to get the most out of static guarding services. Here are a few tips:

• Check their credentials: Make sure the security company holds Approved Contractor Status (ACS)  by checking the SIA Company register online and that their guards hold the license relevant to the field they are working (Again you can check this online.). A bonefide static security contractor should have the accreditation British Standards Institution (BSI) – BS7499:2013: This standard provides recommendations for the management, staffing, and operation of organisations offering static site guarding and mobile patrol services. It outlines recognised procedures and terms related to security services, ensuring that organizations implement appropriate safety measures.
• Ask about technology: A good security provider should offer a blend of human expertise and advanced tools like CCTV integration.
• Look at reviews and testimonials: Previous clients can give you an idea of what to expect.
• Consider your specific needs: Some businesses might need guards with specialised training, such as handling access control or working in high-risk environments.

Take your time to research and choose a provider who understands your business and its unique security challenges.

7. FAQs About Static Guarding Services

Q: Can static guards handle emergencies?
Yes. Static guards in the UK are trained to SIA standards and part of the training they receive is to respond to emergencies. This can be a first person responder medical incident or a confirmed security breach. Their on site presence ensures a quick reaction time, which can minimise damage and keep people safe.

Q: Do static guards replace the need for technology like CCTV?
No, one complements another. without static guards CCTV is just a recording device. However when combined a static guard can monitor CCTV footage in real-time, act on alerts, and provide the human judgement and intervention that technology can’t yet offer.

Q: Are static guarding services only for large businesses?
No, businesses of all sizes can benefit, however they can be cost prohibitive so the amount they are used tends to be more with a bigger business. A small clothing store for example may only use security in the evenings or on weekends. Where as a large multi tenanted office block may use static guards 24 hours per day 7 days a week.

Q: How do I know if my business needs static guarding?
If you have had a major incident or regular moderate incidents and are concerned about theft, vandalism, or the safety of staff and customers, static guarding is worth considering. A good security contractor will help you assess your premises and recommend the right solution for your budget.

Q: What’s the difference between static guards and mobile patrols?
Static guards remain on site at all times throughout the shift providing constant coverage, while mobile patrols move between multiple business or geographical locations. The choice depends on your security requirements and the level of monitoring you need. It could be that you combine CCTV monitoring with a mobile patrol or mobile security call out service instead of having someone positioned on a quiet site all night.