The latest home office crime statistics (January 26) provide considerable food for thought, with the reported increase in violent crime presenting a real challenge for our industry.

There is no doubt that CCTV has played its part in managing security in public spaces (and working to combat these violent incidences) but at what price? Some individuals already campaign that CCTV invades their privacy.

These latest figures could see a growth in the demand for public space protection and at the same time an increase in the level of intrusion some people feel. This raises a difficult dilemma and there aren't any easy answers.

Part of the solution may be in regulation. Although we pride ourselves on successful self-regulation - formalisation of the processes we follow, particularly for CCTV installation and monitoring, may help sooth public concerns.

The Security Industry Authority has, of course, already taken the first step - a CCTV (PSS) licence will be required from March 20 2006 if CCTV equipment proactively monitors the activities of members of the public whether they are in public areas or private property. But, with public safety high on the agenda we need to keep this topic at the front of our minds and continue to develop solutions that address public protection and our increasingly independent society.

Dennis Judd, Head of Corporate Relations, ADT Fire and Security

Source

Security Installer