BUSINESS REPORT PRAISE FOR CITYFIBRE ROLLOUT


Construction work to transform Milton Keynes into one of the world’s best digitally connected cities reached Great Linford and New Bradwell recently – with the news welcomed by council leader Pete Marland. The citywide expansion of the


existing full fibre network began in March. It will provide gigabit capable broadband to at least one million UK homes and businesses by 2021. For the first time, homes, as


well as even more businesses, are set to benefit from full fibre connectivity as CityFibre, invest an additional £40m into building new digital infrastructure throughout the area. The city is already recognised


as a key player in the UK’s digital economy and the latest development will help position the MK as one of the best digitally connected locations on the planet. Pete Marland (pictured),


council leader and local ward councillor, said: “Milton Keynes is a very successful, innovative city and we are growing. We are really


good at creating jobs however we need to make sure that’s supported by the next generation of telecommunications and full fibre technology. CityFibre has done a great job working with MK Council to transform us into a Gigabit City and I’m excited to see the build continuing at pace.” CityFibre is using modern build


techniques to deploy the network quickly, while working closely with the council and local communities to ensure a fast and successful roll-out with minimum disruption to residents. Jean Gowin, CityFibre’s City


development manager for MK, said: “For the first time, homes across MK will have access to full fibre connectivity, and this will have a hugely positive impact on our city. Less than four percent of premises in the UK have access to this type of connectivity so it’s very exciting that MK is the flagship project for our ‘fibre to the premises’ roll out.”


To find out more visit www.cityfibre.com/mk


ENSURE YOUR BUSINESS IS ASBESTOS COMPLIANT


Exposure to asbestos leads to the death of 5,000 workers every year in the UK - and Ensafe Consultants are warning that companies need to be more aware of asbestos compliance. The health, safety and


environmental consultancy is urging businesses to review procedures to help safeguard their workforce and supply chain so they are aware of the dangers posed by asbestos containing material. Jon Clements, commercial


director of Ensafe Consultants, said: “Following the asbestos ban in this country in 2000 it’s illegal to use asbestos in the refurbishment or construction of any premises. However, thousands of tonnes remain in situ. “The Control of Asbestos


Regulations (CAR 2012) requires


anyone responsible for, or owner of a commercial property constructed before 2000, to be able to identify where asbestos could be within the building. Therefore it is critical companies take proactive steps to review procedures to ensure they are current and compliant.” Businesses can achieve


compliance by reviewing maintenance practices and educating their workforce via recognised asbestos awareness training courses. Clements added: “We work with


companies to assist them in asbestos compliance including compiling a register of materials and carrying out highlighted remedial actions necessary.”


Visit www.ensafe.co.uk 6 inbusiness OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018


TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO KEEP DATA SAFE


Cyber security is a hot topic and with the recent introduction of GDPR, the pressure on businesses to tighten their security has only increased. Big names have fallen victim to data breaches, and attacks like WannaCry have highlighted some of the grimmest results of poor network security. With this in


mind, Magenta Network Security have outlined the three key precautions business can take to help prevent a cyber attack. Director Kevin Pyart said:


business and financial data then daily offline backups should become habit. Data should be backed up to discs or the cloud which remain entirely separate from your business network. “Finally, two-factor


‘OVER 90% OF


CYBER ATTACKS ARE INSTIGATED THROUGH PHISHING’


authentication should be implemented alongside proper password policy. To reduce the


chance of human error leading to an attack, businesses should revisit their IT


policy and familiarise staff with


“Research indicates that over 90% of cyber attacks are instigated through phishing. 72% of security professionals suggest that endpoint security like inbox scanning is the most effective way to combat phishing but training staff to recognise phishing emails is vital for when emails fall through the net. “Backing up data is also


absolutely imperative for any sized business. If you’re storing sensitive


areas including social media security, data protection and incident response. “The key barriers that prevent


businesses from tightening their network security are the time and cost of such an operation. A DIY approach is possible but increasingly, outsourced security teams are stepping in to tighten businesses security with professional skills, expertise and an in-depth knowledge of the very latest trends in online security.”


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