Challenge

The mobilisation of the security contract at 20 Old Bailey posed several significant challenges for Smartsec Solutions.

Limited Staff Transfer: Only 40% of the existing security staff were transferred over to Smartsec Solutions under TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment) regulations. This created a substantial staffing shortfall, as the company needed to recruit and staff over 50% of the core team along with a dedicated relief officers pool with new employees before the contract’s commencement. This posed a significant staffing challenge, as the company had to recruit and train over half of the positions with new hires.

Approach

To address these challenges, Smartsec Solutions implemented a comprehensive approach, which involved conducting a detailed review of the Assignment Instructions to gain a deep understanding of the client’s security requirements, performing thorough site surveys to assess the physical environment and potential security risks, conducting a comprehensive risk analysis to identify security threats and vulnerabilities, pinpointing weak points and security gaps through a vulnerability assessment, addressing staffing gaps by identifying specific positions that needed to be filled, carrying out a training needs analysis to develop tailored training programs for the new staff, implementing a stringent selection process to recruit high-calibre candidates, and providing comprehensive pre-deployment induction training to prepare all security staff for their roles.

Successes

The successful implementation of these strategies yielded a host of significant achievements for Smartsec Solutions,

Efficient Recruitment: Smartsec not only recruited but also efficiently trained a fully staffed security team, ensuring their readiness from the very first day of the contract.

Completion of Induction Training: A site-specific induction training program was thoughtfully delivered to heighten the preparedness and competence of the security staff, setting a solid foundation for their roles.

Assignment Instructions and Procedures: Smartsec’s proactive introduction of Assignment Instructions and Standard Operating Procedures well in advance of the start date facilitated a seamless transition, allowing for an organised and effective takeover.

Steady State Operation: The company’s dedication and careful planning led to the attainment of a steady state operation before the contract’s commencement, reducing potential disruptions and ensuring a smooth start.

On-site Launch Day Exercise: An on-site launch day exercise was executed on day one of the contract, showcasing operational readiness and instilling confidence in both the security team and the client.

Crime Prevention Day: Collaborating with the City of London Police, Smartsec hosted a Crime Prevention Day within the first month of the contract, not only enhancing security but also fostering positive community relations.

Satisfied Security Team: Smartsec successfully consolidated the security team, ensuring they were fully operational and aligned with the project’s goals.

Strong Client Relationship: The establishment of a robust and transparent communication channel between Smartsec and the client, Helix, a Hines Company, cultivated a strong and mutually productive relationship, underpinning the overall success of the endeavor.