Category: Guarding South Africa

Challenges In The South African Private Security Industry – Identifying And Overcoming Them

Posted on November 22, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Challenges In The South African Private Security Industry – Identifying And Overcoming Them

Challenges In The South African Private Security Industry – Identifying And Overcoming Them

“The South African private security sector is facing more challenges than ever before. This was according to Tony Botes, national administrator, Security Association of South Africa (SASA), during his address at the Securex 2018 event, Africa’s leading security and fire trade exhibition, which took place recently at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.”

South Africa has seen significant growth in the Private Security Industry in the past few years but continues to face challenges. We discuss some of the identified challenges faced by the Private Security Industry in South Africa and how to overcome them.

Challenges In The South African Private Security Industry – Identifying And Overcoming Them

Unrealistic Union Demands

“Unrealistic union demands plays a large role in the challenging stance of the private security industry’s environment, in the sense that poor pay is a relevant issue. “The majority of security companies realize low margins, with an average of 5% net profit, thus demanding a wage escalation of between 50-80% is unrealistic”, says Alex de Witt, Chief Executive of Omega Risk Solutions. De Witt is further of opinion that clients will either refuse to pay this, or look at technology to replace the human factor, which could lead to jobs being lost. Security companies need to collaborate with unions, reinforce their relationships with these unions to protect the labour force, as well as focus on refining training and development; and enforcing a code of conduct. This solution should be applied, in the sense that valuable and skills and experience is being lost and reflects negatively on the image on the private security industry.”

PSIRA (The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) New Regulations

“A concern for security firms, is that PSIRA (The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) has recently released new regulations which drastically change the regime of regulatory fees which are payable by the security service providers and security officers to PSIRA. These fees have been increased by approximately 40%, which registered companies are obliged to pay upfront on an annual basis, and no longer on a monthly basis, as published on The Skills Portal. These regulations are not only in complete contrast with the government policy on the support of small and medium businesses in South Africa, but also impact on larger security companies. A reason for the increase in these fees could be that PSIRA is not funded by government and driven on the revenue derived from security guards and companies’ levies. “Government will be taking responsibility for regulation i.e. they will be funding regulation”, says PSIRA director, Manabela Chauke. Diavastos, Group 4 Securicor HR Director and SIA executive committee member is of opinion that security guards, who already are earning a minimum wage, should not be contributing to the regulation of the industry out of their own pockets. Furthermore, Police minister Mthethwa states that should the government fund this regulatory body, PSIRA’s service delivery will improve, recruitment of more inspectors will drive compliance monitoring in the industry, and better information and communication technologies infrastructure will assist with compliance.

With elevated crime rates and a weak economy already creating pressure, the effects of this new regulation, could result in negative effects on the private security industry. The Security Industry Alliance (SIA) is taking action in communicating with the government in an effort to stop the increase, which Steve Conradie, CEO of SIA, says could lead to a rise in unemployment in this sector.”

Low Barriers To Entry Into The Industry

“The low barriers to entry into the industry are further a challenge. De Witt is articulates that there is a lack of co-ordination between regulatory departments and inspectors and that the regulatory aspects are often described too vaguely, rendering the implementation of these regulations being weak and deficient. Furthermore, according to the Private Security Chamber Chairperson, Anna Maoko, the ratio is 95%:5% in favour of private institutions, resulting in employers believing that higher success can be achieved through on-the-job training. This is an indication of the dissatisfaction at the quality of training being provided by the training institutions. “Training is expensive and it takes months to complete criminal checks and register new security guards, which leads to a loss of trained individuals whom go to work for unregistered companies, or seek employment in other industries”, says de Witt.”

Regular Demands For Bribes

“Regular demands for bribes are at the highest levels of the industry, from both clients and other role players. An ethical code of conduct needs to bring accountability on both those lobbying and paying bribes; they should face the full effect of the law. De Witt feels the industry is over regulated, but that the regulation is not put into practice.  Most clients want to commoditize security without considering consequences or specialized services.  Regulatory bodies need to act as arbitrators in the contract process. A further challenge in this regard, is that some clients pressure non-compliant security firms into signing open-ended contracts or demand the standards of professional companies.”

Unregistered And Non-Compliant Businesses

Although many security companies are actively registered with PSIRA, as described above, there is a concern regarding the number of unregistered and non-compliant businesses, which lead to fly-by-night companies that do not pay the minimum wage to their workers, resulting in them undercutting the market, says Conradie, and thus making it difficult for the registered companies to compete fairly. These fly-by-night companies provide services that are below standard, further reflecting negatively on the image of the security industry. “Most are thinly disguised labour brokers,” Conradie says; “they don’t offer any specialized services.” Lastly, De Witt believes there may be as many as 200 000 unregistered security officers working within the industry.”

Processing Of Firearm Competency Certificates

“A further challenge that the private security industry is faced with, is the slow rate at which the SA Police Service (SAPS) processes applications for firearm competency certificates that allow individuals to carry guns. Security firms that arm their employees need these certificates to operate. “The reason for this delay, is when police process applications, they occasionally find security companies and security guards that are not registered with PSIRA, and are not registered with the Companies & Intellectual Property (IP) Commission, also coming across situations where a dealer accepts a payment from more than one party, resulting in a duplicated license submission for the firearm”, Capt. D. Adriao, SAPS National spokesman articulates.”

Contact us today for a free quote on your security needs!

Source credits:

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/challenges-facing-the-private-security-industry—is-there-light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-2018-08-24

https://www.pressportal.co.za/industry-and-real-estate/story/6101/challenges-in-the-south-africanprivate-

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

Private Security Industry Growth – Why Has South African Security Become So Important?

Posted on November 22, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Private Security Industry Growth – Why Has South African Security Become So Important

Private Security Industry Growth – Why Has South African Security Become So Important?

“Currently, South Africa’s private security industry is experiencing an unprecedented growth rate. Citizens are now spending as much as R45 billion annually to safeguard their lives, assets, homes and businesses. That’s a third more than the government spent on our police force in 2016 – making South Africa’s private security industry the fourth largest in the world per capita.”

Private Security Industry Growth – Why Has South African Security Become So Important?

“Now more than ever before South Africa’s private security industry needs the full backing of each and every citizen, our retail sector, and especially the state. Here are but a few reasons why.

SA’s Murder Rate

Our murder rate has risen nationally for the fourth year in a row, from 33 per 100 000 in 2014/2015 to 34 per 100 000 in 2016. By all indication this increase in fatal violence will continue over the coming years. What’s unsettling is that to date there are no solid answers as to why this is happening.

The Threat To Suburbia

House burglary is the number one contributor to public fear. And whilst recorded rates of house burglaries are on a long and steady decline – they’re now about a third lower than they were 15 years ago – this trend is mainly due to the increased reliance on private security companies.

Simply put, life without the security backing of private companies has become inconceivable.

The Threat To Our Retail Sector

There’s been a staggering 349% increase in business robberies over the last 11 years. According to SAPS statistics, this translates to an average of 54 reported armed robberies against businesses per day over the 2015/2016 cycle.

With an astounding 90% of attacks against businesses due to insider participation, there’s further been at least a 35% increase in attacks against retail cash deposit machines, safes and vaults. There’s also been a marked increase in the use of explosives. In reaction, and at too great a cost, our retail sector now has to dig deeper and deeper to safeguard its earnings, customers and employees.

Cash-In-Transit Heists

CIT crime is today seen as an elite crime in the criminal hierarchy. According to Dr Hennie Lochner, a senior lecturer at the University of South Africa and a former detective working on cash-in-transit cases, CIT syndicates’ methods are far more intricate and better executed than what is speculated.

“Typical cash-in-transit robberies are planned from 5-18 months before execution, and often with the help of corrupted cash-in-transit guards. They also set up safe houses close to the crime scene – mostly these are luxury homes in affluent neighbourhoods, drawing little attention.”

Lochner further adds that shopping centres have become key focus areas. “Syndicates are aware of the best escape routes, the pattern of police presence, where the CIT van is parked for collection and delivery, the amount of shoppers on site, the positioning of security guards and their numbers, as well as what’s happening a few hours before execution.”

Needless to say, our CIT industry is not geared to countering the threat posed by syndicates becoming more and more inventive with their strategies. This level of inventiveness is also not restricted to CIT crimes, but prevalent across all sectors targeted by criminals.

The Lack Of Public Faith In The South African Police Service

A recent ‘Victims of crime’ survey showed that the public’s faith in the police’s ability to solve crimes is steadily dropping. For example, in 2011, 64% of people had confidence in the police, whilst over the 2015/2016 cycle it dropped to 58.8%.

One of the main reasons for our continuous upward crime spiral is the tawdry state of the police service at grassroots level. In essence, and besides the scourge of corruption already plaguing our police force, it’s also under-staffed, its members under-trained, and it lacks vital resources to combat the ingenuity of modern syndicates. Sadly, the only part of the SAPS that meets security standards is the VIP Protection Service that works exclusively for our political elite.

No wonder South Africa’s citizens opt for private security. They literally hide behind walls guarded by electric fences, alarms and sensors, with security control room operatives on standby. If there’s a break-in or attack it’s mostly the security company one calls first, not the police.

Not too long ago, SAPS management reported to Parliament that our police service loses about

6000 members every year. What’s worrying is that most of these vacancies are just not being filled. As a result, greater pressure is placed on our police officers and detectives, which further restricts their ability to combat crime.

As long as the state fails in what is after all one of its fundamental duties to society, the privatisation of security in South Africa will expand and prosper. As citizens, it’s our duty to support this reality, to embrace it, and to learn to live with it. It’s the future, and ultimately no act of state will change it.”

Contact us today for a free quote on your security requirements!

Source credits:

http://www.securitysa.com/9060a

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

South African Security Industry Market Analysis

Posted on November 21, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

South African Security Industry Market Analysis

South African Security Industry Market Analysis

South Africa’s Security Industry is one of the largest in the world. It is continually growing with the increased crime rates that we are currently experiencing. “The majority of customers using private security services are businesses, but individual users are starting to invest more in security systems and the services that go along with them. The fact that the country’s private security industry is growing is astonishing on its own. There has been an increase in the crime rate over the years, and private security is the solution customers are relying on more and more.”

South African Security Industry Market Analysis – More Than Volume

“Private security firms across the country are taking advantage of market growth to expand their operations. These companies are hiring professional security specialists to lead smaller teams in handling projects in their portfolios. On top of that, there has been a big increase in investment, especially in the equipment department.

Some firms are adding high-quality security vehicles to their armada, complete with automatic license plate recognition, facial recognition, and other advanced features. They are working with companies from the United States and Europe to create new tools and to gain access to bigger catalogues of police supply.

As a result of these investments, private security companies are now able to offer a wider range of services, including the protection of commercial and residential complexes. The nation’s overstretched police force has even fallen behind when it comes to equipment and the amount of funding available to them.

South African Security Industry Market Analysis – A Vital Source Of Jobs

Customers are not the only ones benefitting from the rapid growth of the private security industry. The growing demand for security services also means more jobs are being created in the field. Combined, private security firms employ over 500,000 registered security officers across South Africa. That’s almost twice the size of the nation’s police force.

The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) is also taking a more active role in regulating the industry. We’re seeing better standards and detailed regulations helping to shape the industry. However, the government recently changed its Ministry of Safety and Security to Ministry of Police, signalling a possible centralisation of policing in the country.

The threat doesn’t seem to have had an effect on the industry just yet, but representatives for PSiRA are sounding their concerns. Julie Berg, an expert on Safety Governance and Criminology from the University of Cape Town, also stated that these concerns are warranted.

South African Security Industry Market Analysis – More Startups Joining The Market

Aside from more private security service providers, South Africa is also seeing an increase in the number of startups entering the security market. In today’s age of technology, IT is being used to provide security solutions for home and business users alike.

Smarter video surveillance, better alarm systems, and other new products are now available. These systems can be used in tandem with existing security services from established firms, which means customers – particularly businesses – can protect their assets better without having to invest in overly complicated solutions.

Whether the private security industry will survive more changes in regulations remains to be seen. In the meantime, the industry continues to grow at a steady and healthy rate.”

Contact us today for a free quote on your security requirements!

Source credits:

http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/181/162964.html

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

The Biggest Types Of Private Security Businesses In South Africa

Posted on November 21, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

The Biggest Types Of Private Security Businesses In South Africa

The Biggest Types Of Private Security Businesses In South Africa

South Africa is regarded as one of the most un-safe countries and has one of the largest private security industries in the world. With the industry being as large as it is, there are also a range of different types of security businesses in South Africa as well.

The Biggest Types Of Private Security Businesses In South Africa

“The latest numbers from the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) show that the country currently has 500,000 active security officers, with over 1.5 million registered officers.

This is far higher than the South African Police force and the military, combined.

The South African police force, meanwhile, has around 153,000 sworn in police officers, while the South African army has only 89,000 active personnel – about half as many people as the private security force.

The private security sector is a multi-billion-rand industry, with citizens paying up to R45 billion a year for private protection.

However, despite the growth of the industry, and an increase in the number of active security officers between 2016 and 2017 (472,097 to 498,435) – not all categories of security are equal.

The number of security providers in South Africa has increased from 8,830 in 2016 to 8,995 in 2017 – an addition of 165 new SPs.

In terms of registered security businesses, however, there has been a marked decreased – moving down from 35,150 in 2016 to 31,470 in 2017. This decline of 3,680 registered businesses is across the board, with all but four business categories showing a drop.

The only increases were seen in cash-in-transit guards, reaction services, alarm installers, and dog trainers.

Here are the biggest types of security businesses in the country”:

Security Business No. of businesses 2016 No. of businesses 2017 Change
Security Guards 6 847 6 482 -365
Reaction Services 3 433 3 604 +171
Security Guards: Cash-in-transit 2 474 2 717 +243
Special Events 2 648 2 178 -470
Entertainment / Venue Control 2 588 2 119 -469
Body Guards 2 465 2 062 -403
Security Consultant 2 308 1 911 -397
Security Control Room 2 187 1 824 -363
Security Equipment Installer 1 868 1 572 -296
Rendering of Security Services 1 846 1 528 -318
Training 1 683 1 401 -282
Private Investigator 1 509 1 278 -231
Car Watch 1 502 1 245 -257
Manufacture Security Equipment 876 747 -129
Locksmith / Key Cutter 542 461 -81
Insurance 99 86 -13
Security and Loss Control 101 86 -15
Alarm Installer 71 77 +6
Fire Prevention and Detection 55 47 -8
Consulting Engineer 25 22 -3
Dog Training 15 16 +1
Anti-Poaching 8 7 -1

 

Contact us today to discuss your security needs!

Source credits:

https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/211240/the-biggest-types-of-private-security-businesses-in-south-africa/

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

Code Of Conduct For Security Guards In South Africa

Posted on November 21, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Code Of Conduct For Security Guards In South Africa

Code Of Conduct For Security Guards In South Africa

Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority

Proper Conduct And Appeal

Code of conduct

28.1. The Minister must, after consultation with the Council, prescribe a code of conduct for

security service providers which contains sufficient procedures and rules of evidence

for its enforcement.

28.2. The code of conduct is legally binding on all security service providers, irrespective of

whether they are registered with the Authority or not and, to the extent provided for in

this Act, on every person using his or her own employees to protect or safeguard merely

his or her own property or other interests, or persons or property on his or her premises

or under his or her control.

28.3. The code of conduct must contain rules-

a. that security service providers must obey in order to promote, achieve and maintain –

i. a trustworthy and professional private security industry which acts in terms of the law applicable to the members of the industry;

ii. compliance by security service providers with a set of minimum standards of conduct which is necessary to realize the objects of the Authority; and

iii. compliance by security service providers with their obligations towards the State, the Authority, consumers of security services, the public and the private security industry in general; and

b. to ensure the payment of minimum wages and compliance with standards aimed at preventing exploitation or abuse of employees in the private security industry, including employees used to protect or safeguard merely the employer’s own property or other interests, or persons or property on the premises of, or under the control of the employer.

28.4. The code of conduct must be drawn up with due regard to –

a. the objects of the Authority; and

b. the different categories or classes of security service providers, different types of security services and any other factor meriting differentiation not amounting to unfair discrimination.

28.5. The code of conduct may provide for different penalties in respect of different categories or classes of security service providers or other persons who employ a security officer.

28.6. a. The code of conduct drawn up in terms of subsection (1) must first be published by the Minister in the Gazette with a notice indicating that the Minister intends to issue such a code and inviting interested persons to submit to the Minister within a stated period, but not less than four weeks from the date of publication of the notice, any objections to or representations concerning the proposed code of conduct: Provided that, if the Minister after the expiry of that period decides on any alterations of the proposed code as a result of any objections or representations, it is not necessary to publish such alterations for further comment.

b. The provisions of paragraph (a) apply with regard to any amendment of the code of conduct.

28.7. a. A code of conduct comes into operation on a date determined by the Minister in the Gazette.

b. The Minister may for the purposes of paragraph (a) determine different dates in respect of different categories or classes of security service providers. Improper conduct proceedings against security service providers

29.1. Improper conduct proceedings may, in the prescribed manner, be instituted by the Authority against a security service provider or other person who employs a security officer, on account of an allegation of improper conduct, whether such improper conduct was allegedly committed within or outside the borders of the Republic.

29.2. The person presiding at improper conduct proceedings may, on good grounds, conduct or proceed with such proceedings in the absence of the security service provider concerned.

Appeal against decisions

30.1. Any person aggrieved by-

a. the refusal by the Authority to grant his or her application for registration as a security service provider;

b. the suspension or withdrawal of his or her registration as a security service provider by the Authority; or

c. a finding against him or her, of improper conduct in terms of this Act, or the punishment imposed in consequence of the finding, may within a period of 60 days after service of the notification of the relevant decision contemplated in paragraph (a), (b) or (c), appeal to an appeal committee.

30.2. An appeal committee contemplated in subsection (1) is appointed by the Minister for every appeal and consists of-

a. a person with not less than five years’ experience as an attorney, advocate or magistrate, who is the presiding officer; and may also include

b. two other persons if it is considered appropriate by the Minister.

30.3. Every person serving as a member of an appeal committee must be independent from the Authority and may have no personal interest in the private security industry or in the affairs of an appellant.

30.4. The procedure in connection with the lodging and prosecution of an appeal in terms of this section must be prescribed.

30.5. The amounts payable by an appellant to the Authority in respect of the reproduction of records and related matters in the lodging and prosecution of an appeal must be prescribed.

30.6. The appeal committee hearing an appeal in terms of this section may confirm, set aside or vary the decision or substitute for such decision any other decision which in the opinion of the appeal committee ought to have been taken and direct the Authority to do everything necessary to give effect to the decision of the appeal committee.

30.7. A member of the appeal committee may be paid such remuneration and allowance as the Minister may, from time to time, determine with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance.”

On the 30th of September 2015, The Government Gazette released an AMENDMENT TO THE REGULATIONS MADE UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITY INDUSTRY REGULATION ACT, 2001 (ACT NO. 56 OF 2001).

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Source credits:

https://www.psira.co.za/psira/dmdocuments/Code%20of%20Conduct/PSIRA%20ACT%20-%20REGULATIONS%20%20CODE%20OF%20CONDUCT.pdf

https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/39242_rg10504_gon900.pdf

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

Security Regulations South Africa – Security Laws And Regulations South Africa

Posted on November 21, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Security Regulations South Africa - Security Laws And Regulations South Africa

Security Regulations South Africa – Security Laws And Regulations South Africa

As with most industries, there are laws and regulations that govern the Security Industry in South Africa.

Security Regulations South Africa – Regulations In South Africa

“The Private Security Industry in South Africa is regulated by:

  • The Private Security Industry Regulatory (PSIRA) Act.
  • The sectoral determination, number 6, issued in terms of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act.

Clause 38(3)(g) of the PSIRA Act stipulates:

‘Any person who knowingly or without exercise of reasonable care contracts for the rendering of security services contrary to a provision of this Act is guilty of an offence, and on a conviction of a contravention, is liable to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 24 months, or to both a fine and such imprisonment.’

The private security industry is currently under serious threat from non-compliance by fly-by-night security companies, who use various means of avoiding statutory costs and exploit the labour force. All of these exploitation factors lead to serious employee dissatisfaction, which reduces the level of security awareness and dedication. This is ultimately to the detriment of the consumer.

While there is adequate legislation controlling the private security sector, unscrupulous operators are continuously finding means to circumvent minimum standards, in order to gain an unfair advantage over professional and compliant security service providers.

Many reputable consumers of security services are unwittingly entering into contracts with non-compliant security providers. SASA believes that with growing awareness, no reasonable company will wish to associate itself with such unscrupulous organisations.”

Security Regulations South Africa – The Cost Of Non-Compliance

“The consequences of hiring non-compliant security companies include:

Security officers on your site, who are poorly trained and unable to perform their duties properly.

Security officers on your site, who are underpaid, and vulnerable to the temptation of criminal collusion.

Heavy financial penalties or jail time, for consumers who continue to transgress the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) Act.”

Click here to contact us for all your security needs!

Source credits:

https://www.sasecurity.co.za/governing-legislation/

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

Security Guards JHB: Pros And Cons Of Instant Quotes

Posted on October 25, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Security Guards JHB

Security Guards JHB: Pros And Cons Of Instant Quotes

In recent times, crime has increased dramatically in the world, as well as Johannesburg, and a lot more companies, shopping centres and security complexes are opting for professional Security Guard Services. Depending on the industry and location & which of these categories you fit into, different criteria would need to be considered when shopping around for the right Security Guard Services to suit your needs.

Some of them would provide you with an endless amount of paperwork to complete just to get a quote from them. Others offer instant quotes, in two minutes to be precise.

Security Guards JHB – The Pros Of Instant Quotes

  • You don’t need to fill in an endless amount of paperwork to get a quote
    • Nothing is more frustrating than having to complete tons of paperwork, and this just for a quote.
  • You can get a quote in less time than it takes to make a cup of coffee
    • You can fill in the online request, submit and wait for the email quote to arrive in your inbox. In the meantime, you can make yourself a cup of coffee or tea, and when you arrive back at your desk, the quote will be waiting for you.
  • It makes decision-making that much quicker
    • What happens when you have to wait days or weeks to receive a quote for a specific service? You tend to look for someone with a faster turnaround time. When it comes to business decisions, you need to make a decision as soon as possible, especially when it comes to hiring a Security Guard.
  • It saves you valuable time
    • In business, time is money. Instead of having to wait days or weeks, you will receive a quote almost instantaneously, and you can focus your attention on other important matters.
  • It makes for a more proactive approach
    • Instead of sitting around and waiting for something to happen, you will feel that you have done something proactive and efficient in getting a quote so quickly.
  • It is hassle-free
    • It’s a very simple process and it does not make you feel that you are dealing with unnecessary admin.
  • Professional service
    • By making use of such an easy service, you will be provided with professional service with the click of a button.

Security Guards JHB – The Cons Of Instant Quotes

  • Your quote would not include your personal requirements based on a risk assessment
    • A risk assessment is very important to determine the type of Security Guard you may need. To find out more about the importance of a Risk Assessment, click here.
  • It may not cover everything that you might want to find out
    • Having the convenience of just typing in the basic information to get a quote, you may get your quote instantly, but will still need to contact the office of the company to ask all other relevant questions pertaining to the service that you require.
  • You are not provided with the option to choose whether you want an armed or unarmed security guard – Not a comprehensive quote
    • You will need to have a Risk Assessment done prior to getting a more comprehensive quote. This option only allows for a basic quote to be submitted to you.

To find out more about the benefits of having a security guard at your business premises, click here.

To find out more about why Outsourced Security Is Better Than Internal Security, click here.

To find out more about the Benefits Of Private Security Companies, click here.

To find out more about the Advantages Of Having Security Guards At Your Business, click here.

For a free Risk Assessment or a Quote on a Security Guard in 2 minutes, click here!

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

 

Armed And Unarmed Guarding – How To Know Which One You Need

Posted on October 25, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Armed and Unarmed Guarding

Armed And Unarmed Guarding – How To Know Which One You Need

“Upon first consideration, it may seem obvious that armed guards would provide more security than unarmed ones. Dig a little deeper, however, and you will see that the decision between armed vs unarmed security guards is not so clear-cut.”

How To Choose Between Armed And Unarmed Guarding

“In deciding to provide security for your business, one of the decisions you’ll have to make is whether or not to use an armed guard rather than an unarmed one. There are some advantages and disadvantages to each, and here are a few things you should consider in order to make the right decision.

Threat Level

If the possibility of your employees or customers becoming a victim of crime is relatively low, hiring an armed guard may not be necessary. On the other hand, if there’s a medium to high risk, hiring an armed guard might be best if you are to deter would-be criminals. The presence of an armed guard is normally enough to prevent most people from committing theft, vandalism or even acts of violence, and can go a long way toward ensuring everyone on your premises is safe.

Type Of Business Or Activity

The type of business or activity you operate can also play a part, as the presence of an armed guard can be alarming in certain circumstances. For example, if your establishment primarily provides entertainment, having an armed guard present can put a damper on your patron’s moods, and make them less likely to enjoy themselves. On the other hand, an armed guard could make people feel more secure at an apartment complex or hotel, which in turn would make your property more desirable than others.

Cost And Training

As a rule, armed guards tend to undergo a more rigorous training program than unarmed guards do. They are also more likely to have a background in the military or law enforcement. They will also cost more due to the added training requirements and may come with an additional insurance liability as well.

There are advantages and disadvantages to using an armed security guard to help protect your business.”

How Can Mantis Security Help You When It Comes To Armed Or Unarmed Guarding?

Mantis Security ensures all its security personnel are responsible, reliable and drug free. All security officers are carefully selected and trained to provide the best, latest and safest security measures to ensure our clients satisfaction, well-being and peace of mind. All security officers are PSIRA qualified and registered with the Security Officers Board. All armed guards are fully compliant with the latest Firearm Control Act.

Our security guarding services are provided to corporations, private and residential home functions and events nationwide. Our security guards and supervisors are highly competent, dedicated officers, all of whom are capable of performing at the highest level.

For professional advice in choosing between Armed or Unarmed Security Guards to meet your needs, get in touch with us today!

Source credits:

https://bossecurity.com/2014/09/18/unarmed-vs-armed-guard-how-to-choose/

https://apbguards.com/armed-vs-unarmed-security-guards/

All opinions expressed in this article are not the onus of the publisher nor supplier.

Private Security vs Public Security – Differences Explained

Posted on September 18, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Private Security vs Public Security

Private Security vs Public Security – Differences Explained

Private security and public police provide some of the same services and sometimes they even mirror each other, but there are distinct differences among the similarities. The scopes of their duties are different and each has advantages and disadvantages

Private security is contracted services to companies, people or organizations for the protection of personnel and property. Private security includes guard services, private investigators, body guards and retail (in-house) detectives. All of these positions have limited police powers, and need some training and licensing, but have fewer restraints than public police.

Public police are part of a government entity–local, county, state or federal. All public police are based on a paramilitary model and have strict requirements, training and certification.

Public police are controlled by politics and government establishments, and restrained by laws and rules, but their role is the safety and welfare of the public.

Is Private Security Better than Public Security in South Africa?

Private security companies are trained security personnel employed and managed by private companies. Unlike government-employed police forces that are governed by politics, the government and the law, private security are contracted by an organization to protect personnel and property.

This means that private security working on your property may deny unauthorized access to your business, while enforcing the rules of your company. They are also allowed to search employee’s belongings in the interest of your company. All of these powers allow private security to act in real time to any threats that may occur on your property. Public police cannot enforce the rules of your company, and may only aid after the crime has been committed due to governmental restrictions on private property.

To be part of a legitimate private security company, security personnel must be license, trained and certified by the governing authorities. This license proves that the security officer has skills required to conduct his or her job satisfactorily.

Mantis Security ensures that their employees meet these requirements, and have performed rigorous background checks on each employee. They also enforce training practices on the job, and supervise their employees to maintain a high standard of work.

Another advantage of hiring a private security company is the increased scope of protection they may offer you. Private security covers personal bodyguard protection, uniformed or unmarked security, patrols, or even undercover security. They will first consult with you the needs of your company’s safety, and will set up an appropriate force tailored perfectly to your needs. This includes Point of Access gate houses and camera security – which are perfect for schools, businesses and estates. Private security also often has newer and more effective equipment, because they are not restricted by government funding. This allows them to truly ensure full coverage without compromising your safety.

For a quote on private safety in South Africa, click here to get in touch with us today!

Home Invasion South Africa – Mantis Security Wants You To Know These Top Facts About Local Intrusions

Posted on September 18, 2018 by - Guarding South Africa

Home Invasion South Africa

Home Invasion South Africa – Mantis Security Wants You To Know These Top Facts About Local Intrusions

As excerpted from SouthCoastHerald:

“In Statistics South Africa’s recently published annual victims of crime survey (VOCS), just over 128 000 households experienced robberies where the criminals came into contact with the residents during the period under review (April 2016 to March 2017).

While this number has been on a downward trend since 2013 with a 0.8% decrease from the previous year, the number of incidents is still high.

Approximately 7% of households in South Africa were victims of crime in 2016/17, compared to about 9% of households in 2015/16.

Ivan Govender, district manager (KwaZulu-Natal) for Fidelity ADT says crime is at an unacceptable level and it is important to be prepared. “The first thing we encourage residents to do is to stay calm and try to think rationally in the situation. A home invasion is a very frightening situation especially when you have to worry about other family members,” says Govender.”

 

Home Invasion Avoidance South Africa

  • Burglars tend to avoid homes with security systems.

Based on a report by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, about 60% of convicted burglars stated the presence of a security system influenced their decision to target another home.

  • Most burglaries take place between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Contrary to popular belief, the majority of home burglaries take place during daylight hours, not at night. That’s because most people are at work or school—which reduces the chance the burglar will be noticed.

  • The majority of break-ins are committed by burglars who live nearby.

The typical burglar resides within two miles of the target home. Because they live close, it’s easy for them to learn your family’s daily schedule and strike when they know you’re not home. They may also check for signs that you’re on vacation—such as flyers or newspapers piling up at your door, an un-mowed lawn, or trash cans left at the curb.

  • Most criminals can burglarize a home in less than ten minutes.

Burglars look for homes that are easy targets. That’s why it doesn’t take long for most intruders to break into a house, get what they want, and take off before being noticed.

  • Almost 30% of burglars enter a home through an unlocked door or window.

A surprising number of burglars gain access to homes through open or unlocked entrances. First floor windows and doors are especially well-liked by burglars—particularly when a burglar can be concealed behind overgrown vegetation.

  • An astonishing 34% of burglars enter through the front door.

Whether they walk through an open front door or kick in a locked one, burglars aren’t shy about using your home’s primary entry point.

  • Burglars usually go to the master bedroom first.

Unfortunately, most people don’t hide their valuable items carefully, and burglars know it. Once they break in, burglars head straight for the master bedroom, where they scavenge through dresser drawers and nightstands, look under mattresses, and search closets. Cash, jewellery, and weapons are some of the things a burglar wants most from your home.

  • Someone is home during nearly three out of every ten burglaries.

Coming home to find your material possessions stolen is frightening enough, but victims who are home when the burglary occurs experience even more trauma. According to a crime victimization survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice, a household member is present during approximately 28% of burglaries, and 7% of these victims experienced some type of violent crime.

 

 

Are you ready to have your home secured by security specialists with nearly 3 decades of experience? Click here to get in touch with us today!