Feature
Evolving Security Needs
In its new role as the scheme’s sole third-party assessing body and administrator, the CoLCPA extended an invitation to NSI to refresh the scheme, which has been in existence for 10 years, ensuring alignment with today’s security requirements while maintaining practicality for those overseeing building security. The initiative aims to widen its scope to nationwide expansion and streamline the application process.
Don Randall MBE, Chairman, City of London Crime Prevention Association, states: “The CoLCPA are extremely pleased to be able to partner with NSI to refresh the Building Security Assessment Scheme, which will enhance the safety and security of all building occupants, support the blue light services, and future-proof current and planned legislative changes.”
The reviewer will additionally assess matters including security officers’ completion of appropriate security awareness training modules, such as ACT counter-terrorism and Project Kestrel fire awareness training. This equips security officers with a comprehensive understanding of fire safety. The reviewer will also examine evidence of key links with Emergency Services and CSSC (Cross-sector Security and Safety Communications), a registered charity partnership that addresses preparedness for scenarios ranging from counter-terrorism to cybercrime, public order events and transportation issues.
An award is presented if the review is successfully completed, demonstrating the building’s independent assessment against this quality benchmark. The first four commercial multi- occupancy sites received their BSAS certificates in November 2023 under the revised scheme, which now opens avenues for building owners and managers in London and beyond to seek valued scheme status.
How The Scheme Works
An independent NSI reviewer conducts on-site visits to verify completion of relevant specialist risk assessments by competent individuals or organisations implementation
status
at each building, assessing the of associated recommendations.
This provides valuable insights into existing strengths and constructive feedback for potential enhancements.
The scheme criteria include risk assessments, evacuation/ invacuation plans, trauma pack accessibility, optional Safe Haven status (preferable), and electronic security measures. The reviewer then evaluates those overseeing security plans, fire safety, health & safety risk assessments, recommendations, and their implementation status. Proof that key security systems and services are sourced from independently approved third- party certificated providers, or demonstrable compliance with relevant British Standards, is also required.
Conclusion
Around 70% of first responders to incidents involve private sector providers, including security staff, underlining the need to ensure proper implementation of systems, policies and procedures.
The Building Security Assessment Scheme offers a cost- effective, prestigious and third-party approved opportunity for multi-tenanted commercial premises to address their present and future threats – thereby enhancing the safety and security of all building occupants.
fmuk 21
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
