Inappropriate alarm?

Richard Underwood, property security specialist for Norwich Union Risk Services, says: “Opting for an alarm system from a supplier who is registered with the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) or the Security Systems Alarms Board (SSAIB) will help ensure businesses receive a thorough assessment of their needs, providing significant benefits to the business. “These accredited suppliers are the sole providers of ‘Type A' alarms, as defined by strict criteria set by the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland. Such alarms are the only ones eligible for a unique reference number (URN), which in turn qualifies them for a police response via an alarm signal handled by a recognised alarm-receiving centre (ARC). “Type B' systems, most typically known as a 'bells only' alarm, are not however issued with a URN and police will not respond unless there is some kind of on site verification from the public, which in reality might be too late - rendering them as less effective. “In addition to meeting police requirements for alarms that provide confirmed activations, newer systems also have to be designed to meet an appropriate grade of alarm, as defined in European standards (BSEN 50131). The grade is dependant on the level of the risk, which is based upon the type of intruder likely to target the premises. Risk is measured on a four-point scale from grade one, a low risk, to grade four, a high risk. “Intruder alarms are an essential part of a business continuity plan and businesses must ensure that a security alarm is fit for purpose. “The level of security undertaken to protect a premises will also affect an insurance policy and failure to check with an insurer that the appropriate grade of alarm is being installed or that suitable alarm signalling and response measures are in place may lead to insurance cover being refused or made conditional upon expensive additional work being undertaken.”