Selecting appropriate security can be a potential minefield without previous experience on which to base an informed choice.

Security is a business risk that needs to be managed as an integral part of any organisation. Before purchasing any security measures, it is imperative to identify precisely what needs to be achieved and how it will impact on the rest of your business.

The problem is frequently compounded by the fact that the decision to secure the premises is often as a result of victimisation. It is tempting to rush into decisions rather than selecting the most appropriate security following serious and rational consultation.

It is advisable to allocate a specific budget and devise a rolling programme to combat crime and vandalism.

Selecting the security measures
You should seek direction from your insurance company to ascertain their requirements, the nature and quality of protection that they demand. They may even provide a list of companies that they consider to be of good standing in any particular sector.

Source a supplier
The following should be considered:

• How long has the company been trading?

• Can it provide an on-going service?

• Is it a member of a recognised industry body or association?

• What is the level of training and qualifications of the staff?

• Can the company carry out all of the work itself or is some sub-contracted?

• Does the company specialise in any particular field?

• Is it adequately covered by insurance?

• Can it provide a list of references in the form of satisfied customers?

Draw up accurate guidelines
Having drawn up a shortlist of suppliers, clearly communicate the exact nature of your problems. They are the experts, let them provide the specialist knowledge as to how best to solve these problems.

There are often several options that could satisfactorily meet your needs. Have all of the advantages as well as the disadvantages of each clearly explained.

Equipment quality
Always confirm the quality of the equipment to be installed. Poor quality equipment may be cheaper but can be prone to break down or require frequent servicing, thereby offering ineffective protection and costing you more in the longer term. Equally, the most expensive products and services may include far more than you actually need.

A written guarantee of provision
Always get a specification, written in lay terms, of precisely what the supplier is agreeing to provide
eg. how many cameras will be installed, how many guards will be employed (and the hours they will work) and, of course, the costs.

Having talked to at least three companies, set out the specifications and obtained quotes, make your informed choice.

Security consultancy
You could consider the use of specialist security consultants or your local Crime Reduction Officer who will work independently with you to assess your precise needs. They can provide advice on the most cost-effective methods of achieving peace of mind. Use their experience to guide you through the security minefield.