Changing Times
Changing Times mean proactive security measures
In this era the media is wrought with articles relating to security. Whether it be a toy gun found in a jail which prompted a security review, the upgrading of Australia’s intelligence capabilities under a $1.1 billion national security program, or the proposal of tighter security for baggage handlers, Australia and New Zealand no longer seem to be countries where front doors can be left open or suitcases left unlocked.
The constant threat of terrorism, corporate fraud, cyber crime, vandalism, organised crime and theft have left our organisations having to continually keep abreast of new developments and frequent legislative changes. Whereas in the past, security played a secondary role, today it is dictating a new way of business operation increasing the challenges faced by both business owners and managers alike. As a result, an effective risk management policy is central to the success of every organisation and needs to be built into the company culture and not just implemented by the security personnel.
The security ramifications of the 9/11 attacks have triggered change at many levels. This coupled with conventional rising crime rates[1] are shifting security initiatives from prevention to proactive deterrence. It is estimated that in the coming year Australia will spend $30 billion on keeping our country safe, of which 15% accounts for the private security sector[2]. This sector is forecast to grow at a rate of 5.5% per annum over the next 5 years.[3]
The security industry is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing sectors of the Australian and New Zealand economy and is growing in complexity daily. Rapid advancements in electronic security technology are being illustrated by the bewildering array of new products and services to choose from. This can sometimes leave organisations confused and wondering which security solutions may be best suited to their needs. As a result, some larger organisations are employing a security manager whose role it is to make an assessment relative to the needs and compliance issues of the company and industry and then implement an agreed security policy. This tends to be a collaborative process through tendering and consultation with outside security providers. At the other end of the spectrum, security decisions in smaller organisations tend to be made arbitrarily by owners. This may in turn result in dire consequences.
It is thus extremely important that organisations both large and small pay careful attention to their security needs and consult with a security provider offering an assessment of the individual peculiarities of the business and an interpretation of required compliance standards. A thorough security assessment will result in an efficient and cost effective security solution tailored specifically for the premises and business requirements.
[1]‘Environmental scan of the security industry’, in Media Centre research and articles May 2005, Internet, http://www.asial.com.au/default.asp?page=/media%20centre/research+and+articles/environmental+scan+of+the+security+industry&flashver=7
