Every business should know the security risks it faces, but few take the time to examine them properly. Day-to-day operations come first, and security, including making sure staff are properly trained in security awareness, often takes a back seat until an incident happens. By then, the cost of dealing with the problem is usually far greater than the cost of a security risk assessment.
What is a Business Security Risk Assessment?
A security risk assessment is an independent review of every part of your business that affects its safety and security. That covers your people, property, location, procedures, physical and electronic security systems, and day-to-day operations. Its purpose is to identify any risk that could disrupt the normal running of your business.
Why use an Independent Assessor?
Managers are naturally focused on running the business. They rarely have the time, or the specialist knowledge, to step back and review it from a security perspective. That’s where an independent assessor adds value.
Every business should have its security reviewed by an experienced, independent professional at least every five years. The review identifies anything that could damage, interrupt or disrupt the smooth running of your business.
A security risk assessment shows what is working well and where there are gaps in the safety and security of your people, premises and assets, both physical and intellectual. It then sets out clear recommendations for what should be improved, strengthened or changed to make your security more effective.
What does a security risk assessment involve?
An On-site Survey
A thorough assessment needs a proper site visit, usually carried out over several days rather than a quick walk-round. The assessor builds an understanding of how your business operates, reviews your current procedures and systems, and identifies any weaknesses that could affect the security of your premises.
Off-site Research
Not every risk is visible on site, so the assessor also looks into your business from the outside. This includes your operating hours, online and social media presence, local crime levels, potential internal and external threats, and any links to other businesses that may carry their own risks. Together, this shows how effective your current security measures really are.
Benchmarking Against Best Practice
Every finding is measured against UK security industry standards, codes of practice and guidance from the police and other statutory authorities. This keeps recommendations grounded in recognised best practice and relevant to your business and site.
A Clear, Jargon-free Report
Once the research is complete, all findings are brought together in a detailed written report. It explains what was found and recommends how to improve security and safety across your business and its properties, in clear, plain language rather than security jargon.
What Happens After the Assessment?
Sometimes the report confirms that your existing security is effective, giving senior staff genuine peace of mind that everything is in order. Even so, security should be reviewed regularly, at least every five years, as your business grows and changes.
How Surelock Can Help
Surelock International Limited carries out independent security surveys and risk assessments for businesses and premises of all types. Our assessments combine a security survey and audit into one comprehensive review, so you know exactly where you stand.
Arrange a Security Risk Assessment
If you’d like to know more about security risk assessments and how one could benefit your business, our team is here to help. We’ll discuss your needs in confidence and recommend the right approach for your premises.
C: www.surelock.org/contact-us
T: 0333 6000 300
