The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) recently clarified its position for all NSI-approved companies in respect of the government’s advice that most people should be staying at home as part of the effort to control the spread of COVID-19.
NSI-approved firms able to follow social distancing rules
The NSI stated that: “Approved companies working in security and fire safety deliver every day essential services ranging from a wide variety of guarding services, to fire detection and intruder alarm systems, CCTV systems and the 24/7 remote monitoring of these systems in purpose built and secure Alarm Receiving Centres (ARCs).
“Approved companies working in these specialisms go to great lengths to ensure the integrity of their service. It is our belief essential staff in their businesses are key workers, providing critical maintenance and emergency call-outs to ensure effective security and safety cover. They understand exactly how to balance utilisation of Key Worker status with the demands of social distancing, and so support public safety and the emergency services.
As reported in our earlier blog the Security Industry Authority has stated security guards are regarded as key workers if they are in roles providing security provision in hospitals; schools; social care; courts; government estate; supermarkets and the food supply chain; the transport network; national infrastructure and utilities. Additionally, roles essential to supporting law and order, with the potential to reduce demand on policing, would also be included which would cover the guarding of empty or closed commercial, retail or office premises.
Ecl-ips: providing essential CCTV maintenance and support on site
As an NSI Gold-approved-company Ecl-ips will continue to support our customers with remote assistance regarding CCTV. Ecl-ips is also providing remote real-time monitoring services, which are key to the health running of IT systems.
Additionally, we are now able to deploy our engineers for essential maintenance and support of CCTV systems on sites as part of our work to help with the security and protection of the properties. If we do visit sites we will observe the strict rules on social distancing and hygiene.
These are challenging times for companies, in Worcestershire where we are based, across the UK, and internationally but we are keen to show that we can continue with our business even in these extraordinary times. We are also supporting the Here2Help community response to Coronavirus (COVID 19) in Worcestershire and have offered our services, if required, for community support delivering food and essential supplies to vulnerable groups.
If you have security concerns or would like CCTV monitoring advice please contact us we would be pleased to help.