What is a security risk assessment?

“Rarely is anyone thanked for preventing the disaster that didn’t happen.”

It’s mostly true, but there’s one major exception — security. In this article, we’re focusing on a key step for preventing the disaster that didn’t happen. Specifically, we’re looking at security risk assessments.

A professional risk assessment is our starting point with any client (and, in case you were wondering, it’s always appreciated). But what is a security risk assessment? What does it involve? And, why would you thank us for it?

What is a risk assessment?

A security risk assessment is an in-depth, professional analysis of the vulnerabilities and threats to your commercial premises.

Effectively, a security expert looks at your property through the eyes of a potential attacker. It’s a chance to identify the gaps, uncover hidden dangers and manage the risk.

But here’s the important thing:

A risk assessment isn’t a sales pitch. As well as demonstrating which security controls are essential, and why, the process also reveals which measures aren’t an immediate priority. In short, you won’t waste money on unnecessary kit — and, crucially, your insurance premiums can be cheaper (more about this later).

Following the assessment, you’ll get a jargon-free written report. It includes a list of actions prioritised according to their urgency. Already convinced? Get in touch with CSG to book your assessment.

Otherwise, read on.

What does a security risk assessment involve?

A reputable security consultant will always factor in location, the area’s crime profile, the building’s condition, contents, layout and surrounding environment. They also look at how it functions day to day, and the impact of a security breach on business-critical processes.

Obviously, every property and business is different — so with that in mind, here’s a quick generalised rundown of what to expect:

• On-site inspection of perimeters, access points, access control measures, locks, lighting, blind spots, fencing and signage.
• CCTV and alarms. Are CCTV cameras in the right place? Are they tamper-proof? Do alarms provide adequate coverage for the site’s function, size and location? Are alarms and CCTV reliable? Are they monitored?
• Fire safety systems, detection equipment and fire extinguishers. Are there enough, and where are they placed?
• Threat and vulnerability analysis to assess the likelihood and impact of all types of security breaches, both opportunistic and targeted. Are there vulnerabilities in physical, technical and operational security?
• System testing — e.g. CCTV cameras, alarm systems and electronic access control.
• Policy and procedure review including security protocols, employee awareness and security staff efficiency.
• Penetration testing, simulating how systems and procedures withstand a real-world attack.

Why is a risk assessment important? What’s in it for you?

Peace of mind is an obvious benefit. The security risks are no longer hidden, waiting to emerge at the worst possible time and cripple the business.

But there’s more.

Insurance is also a critical factor — particularly if you’re responsible for a vacant property. Firstly, insurance for unoccupied premises is difficult to come by. Secondly, it’s expensive. To an insurer, vacant buildings are extremely high risk.

A risk assessment highlights essential, preventative security measures. Once implemented, it provides written proof that you’re taking all possible steps to reduce the risk. As a result, insurance can become easier to get hold of, and your premiums could be lower.

Want to find out more about security and insurance? We’ve written a guide to insurance compliance for vacant commercial premises.

Safety requirements

This one is sometimes overlooked — partly because, in some circumstances, it seems blatantly unfair.

The fact is, as a business owner, property manager or landlord you’re responsible for the safety of everyone who enters their building. And yes, this includes individuals who enter the premises with criminal intent — trespassers, squatters, vandals and thieves.

If they are injured whilst on the premises, you can be held liable and face prosecution. As we said, it seems unjust, but we can’t change the law. What we can do is carry out a professional risk assessment to reduce the chances of this happening.

Why would you thank us for a risk assessment?

To summarise, here are some of the reasons why you might thank us for carrying out a risk assessment:

• Cost saving because you can focus on security measures which are essential, rather than spending money on those which aren’t.
• Efficient prioritisation. The written report is a jargon-free, prioritised roadmap. It explains which measures to implement now, in the near future and in the longer term.
• Insurance is easier to come by, and premiums can be cheaper.
• Legal compliance with safety requirements, plus proof that you meet eligibility standards for industry accreditations and certifications.
• Peace of mind. You’re given detailed information on where the risks are, and how to mitigate them.

In the end, a professional risk assessment gives you a clearer understanding. It’s a close-up look at every aspect of your security — not just the obvious.

To book a security risk assessment with a CSG consultant, get in touch here or call us on 08445 610 578. We’ll be happy to hear from you.