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Security for your function

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Ray Kress
Newcastle Security
 
Security must always be considered when organising your business function. Unfortunately, sometimes it is an aspect that is not given enough importance until it is too late.
 
Security risk assessment
For all business functions, some type of security risk assessment should be done, considering what security risks are present and what actions need to be taken to address each risk.
At the most basic end, say clients attending a function on your business premises, the risks may be fairly minimal but will still be present. Businesses are normally quite good at controlling access at these events and are in familiar surrounding so have often attended to many security risks as a normal course of running their business. But having a function is much different than the day-to-day running of the business.
A fairly unique risk to these types of events is data security - from leaving sensitive information visible, printouts in bins and even electronic media in easily accessible locations.
You should also consider the security of attendees from their parking location to your premises. It is hardly good for business relations if a client is mugged or their car is damaged when they are attending your event.
When using an outside venue, consideration must be given to the access points and what security is already provided.
If you are expecting a large number of attendees then crowd control measures may need to be taken.
 
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Making the security plan
After threats are assessed, the next step is planning what people and materials are needed to address each threat risk.
The first step is usually making the venue a low security risk. This includes limiting the access points, controlling traffic flow, securing equipment, etc.
Next there should be deterrence, such as lights and visible personnel. Finally there should be incidence preparedness so everyone knows what to do if a security incident occurs and measures have been put in place to minimise their impact.
Getting help
It is often wise to obtain help from specialised businesses to help with security for your event.
They can help in almost all areas of security, including risk assessment and planning. They also have trained staff who know how to handle a wide range of situations whilst till being customer friendly.
Newcastle Security guards are trained in many aspects of security such as Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA), First Aid, WHS and crowd control.
The guards are chosen for specific tasks based on the training certificates which they hold.
Security businesses can also provide a range of equipment for your event that you may otherwise need to spend time and expense in obtaining.
 
For further information contact Newcastle Security on (02) 4960 6800, email admin@newcastlesecurity.com.au or visit www.newcastlesecurity.com.au
 
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ray Ray Kress
Started his security career in 1983 when he started his own security business, then called Security City, a name he later changed to Newcastle Security Centre in 1987 when the company was incorporated. He also taught the Security Course at TAFE for 10 years in the late 80s and 90s.