From installers to guards … nominations make the shortlist for the best services and products of 2000
A gala dinner in London this month will honour those companies and individuals who have achieved excellence in the security industry in the year 2000.

The Security Excellence Awards, sponsored by BT RedCARE, Southern Monitoring Services and Sutton Specialist Risks have, for the second year running, been organised by Security Installer and Security Management Today magazines.

Following a judging process carried out by a panel chosen for their wide knowledge and experience of the security industry, a shortlist has been announced.

The products, companies and individuals are detailed in this four-page preview.

The winners in each category will be announced at a gala dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, on Monday November 20, hosted by TV and radio personality, Tony Hawkes.

All the following shortlisted nominations were judged to have demonstrated excellence in 2000. The winners in each category will be announced at the event and trophies will be awarded.

Security Product Innovation

This award will be presented to the manufacturer or designer of a product which the judges deem to be ground-breaking in application and specific consumer need.

One person, one card

The Door Detective from IDL is an infrared beam device to prevent tailgating in an access control system, allowing only one person to go through on each card. It creates an active infrared field across the door opening to monitor the passage of every individual entering and leaving that door. In the event of an unauthorised entry the system will provide local and remote alarm indications to alert the individual and security personnel. A specifically designed microprocessor results in no false alarms from items such as briefcases or empty wheelchairs, says IDL. As well as tailgating, the product presents collusion, obstruction, non-entry and unauthorised entry.

Shield of protection

Crime Shield is a simple method of protecting windows from forced entry and vandalism in an unobtrusive manner. Unlike conventional wire mesh, roller shutters, bars or collapsible gates, it merely gives the impression of tinted glass when installed in front of existing glazing. From inside it lets in "almost 100 per cent" of available daylight and is practically invisible from a short distance. The barrier comprises 1.5mm thick galvanised steel sheet perforated with a specialised hole pattern and is built into an aluminium frame which can be fixed to the window by a variety of options.

Prox and PIN in one unit

StormProx from Third Millennium is a combined vandal-proof pushbutton keypad and proximity reader in one unit. The unit is a fusion of two products: the Storm vandal resistant keypad from Keymat Technologies and advanced proximity technology from Third Millennium. Designed to interface with virtually all door control panels and security systems, it is said to fill the gap in the market for an extremely robust and weatherproof proxPIN device. Currently, when both prox and PIN are required in a hostile environment, they have to be mounted side by side and connected electronically on the inside of the building.

Brother in arms

The LB200 Little Brother from Nortek is a device that can eliminate blind spots in CCTV systems in an economical way. Currently in town or city CCTV systems when new premises/leisure facilities are opened it is costly to move or add cameras. This can mean troublemakers moving to these camera blind spots. The Little Brother has the ability to "piggy back" cameras into any existing telemetry receiver and the additional (fixed or panning) cameras are controlled via the existing telemetry without the need for expensive cabling all the way back to the control room. It also allows temporary surveillance of potential trouble zones such as fairs, carnivals, outdoor concerts etc.

Improving police response

The RemVu Aquila from RemGuard offers remote monitoring customers a security solution which conforms to the new code of practice in this sector. Designed to reduce false alarm rates and improve police response to an incident, this the first product to be regulated to BSI PAS 38:2000. Available in eight and sixteen channel models, Aquila features 24 EOL tamper proof alarm inputs, battery backup, interface to RedCARE STU and built-in audio amplifier with three pre-recorded and one user-recordable message. Connected to Ethernet computer networks, it opens up images on the system to any networked PC with an authorised password, allowing users the convenience of logging in from their laptop or home PC.

Security Installation

This is to be presented to a security installer, company, systems specifier or consultant who has demonstrated the best use of skill, equipment, technical expertise and management on a specific installation during the year.

Complicated de-livery!

Hoffman Security had to overcome many complications installing a system at the historic building of the Vintners Company, a livery company of the City of London which had been entered and damaged in the riots of June 1999. They had to take into account the security needs of four separate buildings and the personalised needs of nine sub tenants. They also had to deal with the logistical problems of an historic building with original décor. Specification required an alarm system with 15 keypads serving 15 individual zones, a CCTV system and an access control system. There had to be minimum disturbance to the building, all cables had to be channelled via a basement and each user required independent entry/egress within the overall manned control system.

Four-week challenge

Pearl Fire and Security undertook the challenge of increasing the security of a building once owned by MI5. In only four weeks, Pearl overhauled the existing fire and security system and added integrated access control, CCTV and traffic management at the building, now owned by the Qualifications and Curriculum Agency. Cameras identify both vehicle and driver at the car park entrance and an electro hydraulic barrier forms a secure entry point. A photo ID system provides visitor passes. The client had called for a single multi function access control card that could also be used for vending machines. When manufacturers were unable to meet this specification, Pearl found a way to combine different chips to ensure compatibility.

Comprehensive coverage

MR Security designed and installed a comprehensive system including fire and intruder alarms, CCTV, video door entry/concierge system, access control and gate automation at Bryanston Square, London. The £25 million Octagon development consists of a marble floored entrance lobby, 23 apartment and duplexes with two penthouses and three mews houses. MR installed an independent audible only alarm in each home linked to the porter's desk, a video door entry/concierge system and access control at the apartments plus audio entry for the mews. Twelve CCTV cameras cover the site with two in the lifts. During the project a purchaser converted the entire first floor, into two large flats. MR ensured that this system reconfiguration did not interfere with the construction programme.

Security Installer

This is to be presented to an individual or company who has shown the highest standard of workmanship.

Specialist in innovation

MR Security is an independent specialist in the design, installation and maintenance of electronic and physical security systems. In false alarm management, MR says it has a reducing trend to less than one false call per policed system per annum. Three projects submitted for consideration were: Octagon, Bryanston Square (see Security Installation category); an intruder, fire, CCTV, video door entry and access control system at Toad plc, suppliers of vehicle security and in car entertainment; and a totally integrated advanced technology system at Holland Park Studios, the home of designer and builder, David Furze. This integrated various security elements and communications systems to provide a co-ordinated futuristic package using MR's own flush finished faceplates.

'Undetectable' cable runs

Hoffman Security submitted two projects for consideration: the Vintners Company, London (see Security Installation category) and an installation in Redington Road, London NW3, a substantial listed building. This required perimeter protection, an intruder alarm system using a Galaxy 500 control panel, external beam protection, CCTV and gate controls. There were demanding requirements: installation within completed areas with fine finishes, varying client requests; complex wire runs within the continuing builders work and rubble, integration with existing control systems and client cultural and language difficulties. Finished on time, the architect applauded Hoffman for the "undetectable cable runs" and "impeccable system design" and praised the company's "professional and friendly approach".

Minimal disruption

Pearl Fire and Security Ltd submitted two installations for consideration: the Qualifications and Curriculum Agency (see Security Installation category) and Castle View School, a large comprehensive. Pearl successfully installed a full CCTV system with the minimum of disruption whilst work carried on in the classrooms. The installation had to be completed in ten days before the start of the Christmas break, a traditional time for vandalism. The company aims to provide systems that are less disruptive to install and can communicate their status throughout their installed life. Pearl provides a single point of contact for all out-of-hours calls ensuring that in an emergency there is always someone who understands the site's particular system and requirements.

Security Manager 2000

This award will be presented to an individual who has demonstrated excellence in a senior security management role, with the ability to inspire and lead a team and convey the importance of their work to senior management.

Active guarding

Raymond Redmore is managing director of Security 2000 Ltd, a Bristol-based guarding firm established in 1994. He entered the industry with no experience, starting as a guard on a minimum wage. After working for three firms, he set up Security 2000 with a mission to cut crime on local industrial estates through innovative security methods and tasks. Training, co-operation and equipment are keywords in his operations strategy. Now managing five industrial estates in Avonmouth, he has actively engaged the co-operation of local companies and police and introduced CCTV equipment and radio transmitting detector systems, drastically reducing losses through crime and vandalism.

Customer care

Sidney Lutz, head of security and safety at the Business Design Centre in London, has introduced a security culture at the venue which extends across the community. As a Trustee of the Safer Islington Trust, he supports the Police Foundation and is involved in the Borough's Crime Prevention. As part of his security strategy, he has upgraded CCTV coverage at the BDC, introduced a mobile car valet service to the car park which contributed to it winning the Secure Car Park Award for two successive years, and established a Customer Care Charter encouraging staff to courteously challenge all strangers in the building.

Investigative approach

Gerry O'Donoghue joined tool and plant hire company, HSS Hire Service Group, as group security advisor in 1992 after 30 years in the police. With responsibility for 300 sites and 2,400 employees in the UK he also advises international franchise outlets. As part of his rigorous loss and fraud prevention strategy, he has introduced a confidential telephone hotline, set up IT systems to analyse and establish patterns of internal or external fraud, and manages the department with two former CID officers and a security analyst. He has brought discretion and integrity to his role, advising on crime prevention and successfully investigating incidents through regular test purchases.

Police and Industry Partnership Award

This award recognises the joint efforts of the security industry and the police to successfully reduce crime in a specific scheme.

Competitive business

Business Link Sandwell (BLS) is a partnership between West Midlands Police and businesses on three business parks in Sandwell experiencing high levels of burglary. 46 per cent of businesses on the estates had been repeatedly victimised. Working closely with contributory agencies, BLS acted as an independent coordinator to address crime as a business risk and encourage best practice at realistic cost. It launched a business security plan advising increased target hardening measures including security barriers, lighting, and CCTV to cover the whole of the area. Actual crime has been drastically reduced and the estates now review and monitor crime collectively, rather than on an individual basis.

Safe as houses

Kent County Constabulary, Canterbury City Council and the Kent Fire Brigade launched the Secure Accommodation Scheme (SAS) to encourage safe and secure rented accommodation for students. The first of its kind, SAS has achieved a 36 per cent reduction in burglary in its first year of operation and the voluntary accreditation scheme is already being replicated by other forces. 85 landlords have joined the scheme, installing security systems to an agreed standard set by the participating authorities. With regular 'dip tests' to ensure standards are maintained, the scheme is backed by Harrison Beaumont Insurance and Pharon Insurance, providing an added incentive to landlords and students.

Grasping the nettle

Burglary and repeat victimisation of the elderly and vulnerable in Guildford, prompted the launch two years ago of Guildford's Response and Action for Safer Premises (G.R.A.S.P.). The partnership between Banham Security, Surrey Police, Guildford Association of Voluntary Service (GAVS) and the borough council offers to replace or fit security equipment free of charge for the elderly, disabled and vulnerable. Managed by GAVS, the project costs £15,000 a year and is funded by Banham Security and the Council. More than 750 clients have been served by G.R.A.S.P, successfully reducing the fear of crime and achieving a 0 per cent revictimisation rate.

Training Initiative 2000

This award recognises an organisation or individual who has promoted good working practices in the security industry through an effective training programme.

Cost-effective training

The Central Wirral training initiative for retail security guards is a non-commercial programme coordinated by Merseyside Police, meeting NVQ level 2 qualifications in Safety and Loss Prevention. With co-operation from four employers, the local TEC, Wirral Metropolitan College and the police, 12 guards have achieved the qualification in the past year and another three are starting the course. A further 30 guards have been given on-site training without a qualification from assessors within their own workplace or from local police. The cost-effective training package is now being demanded as an entry-level requirement for new retail security guards.

Two-tier learning

In early 1999, Gardiner Technology uncovered a major demand for basic and advanced training within its market due to the growth of the CCTV sector and highly competitive intruder alarms sector. This sparked a two-tier initiative for mass level training in both sectors, and more intensive courses which are currently underway. 60 courses have been held so far with over 500 delegates. More than 95 per cent of delegates attending the course have rated the training as excellent. And in an unprecedented move by a distributor, Gardiner has established dedicated training facilities at five of its branches running independent courses throughout the year.

Class of its own

Cooper Security devised a two-hour, multi-media course for Class VI wirefree technology to coincide with the launch of its Scantronic 9750/9850 hybrid control panels in June. The company employs four SITO approved technical sales executives to deliver the course at no cost to the installer. The course meets BSDD244 and NACP 12 requirements and is run to a flexible timetable to fit in with engineers' schedules. All delegates are tested on their knowledge of Class VI wire-free technology at the end of the course and are required to achieve 90 per cent pass rate to receive a certificate. Since its launch, the company has successfully trained nearly 200 installers.

Best Guarding Company

This award will be presented to a manned guarding company which has demonstrated a high level of professionalism, quality of service and responsibility to both customers and employees.

'Man-tech' solutions

Lockhart Security Services was formed in 1987 and employs 400 mobile and static security officers with operations extending from Central Scotland to Humberside. With a turnover of £5 million per year, Lockhart's long-term blue chip companies include Nissan Motor manufacturers and Caterpillar UK where it provides 'man-tech' solutions in conjunction with facilities management specialists, Building and Property Ltd. A member of IPSA, ISI and SITO, Lockhart has also been independently audited by Security Watchdog, from whom it has won a Gold Award for two years in succession.

On the double

First Security (Guards) Ltd is London's premier guarding company, employing 1,850 security personnel with a portfolio of more than 280 contracts. It recently won three prestigious contracts to provide guarding for the DTI, Inland Revenue and Department of Sport, Media and Culture. In the last two years, First has doubled its turnover to £34 million. It provides a 62-hour modular training programme for all new personnel and has been instrumental in integrating technology into its services. By concentrating on high pay rates, training and development and variety of job roles, First has an above-average staff retention rate.

Young guns

Noble Security Services was formed in 1996 providing guarding, keyholding and mobile patrol service. With a turnover of £750,000 per year, it employs 45 full time employees and prides itself on holding some of the highest qualifications in the industry. Certified to ISO 9002, BS 7499 and BS 7858, the company is a member of the BSIA, IPSA, and the British Safety Council. It is also an approved SITO training centre and an Investor in People. Earlier this year, it formed a unique partnership with Norwich Union Risk Services allowing its customers to benefit from premium discounts.

Best Manufacturer 2000

The following companies were nominated in a postal card ballot by the readers of Security Installer and SMT (Security Management Today) magazines. They were shortlisted on the basis of :

Offering the best quality products at the right prices; Providing a high level of support including training.

The shortlisted companies are: Gardiner Technology, Texecom and Pyronix

Services to Security

This award will be announced and presented to the individual, whom the judges consider has made the most significant personal contribution, above and beyond the call of duty, to the advancement and national prominence of the security industry.

Our ‘Excellent’ sponsors

BT RedCARE provides the world’s largest alarm signalling network, protecting nearly 300,000 domestic and commercial properties against fire and other emergencies. RedCARE works by connecting an alarm to an alarm receiving centre using a normal BT telephone line, monitored continuously to provide instant response and to protect against deliberate line cuts. BT RedCARE’s services include RedCARE GSM, RedCARE Serial and RedCARE ISDN. Southern Monitoring Services is market leader in the provision of remote monitoring and associated services, including Dualcom, RedCARE, Adpro, CCTV and vehicle tracking, in addition to fire and environmental systems. SMS installed the most comprehensive central station computer hardware/software system available, ensuring the most effective service to customers. Sutton Specialist Risks Ltd are specialist brokers to the security and fire protection industries. As registered brokers and members of BIBA, they are part of the Sutton Group of companies. With policies approved by the leading security and fire protection associations, SSR in partnership with Iron Trades and other leading insurers, specialise in arranging tailor made cover for companies operating in this sector.