Our most popular articles and videos aimed at fire and security installers 2017

Combating the skills crisis and the rogue trader problem are the standout topics this year (and indeed, they’re major themes every year).

Thanks for reading in 2017. Merry Christmas from IFSEC Global, IFSEC International and FIREX International!

5. The most innovative security products of 2017

Avigilon and Vanderbilt were among the winners of Benchmark Magazine’s Innovation Awards 2017, which reward excellence across nine categories of physical security technology.

4. Cowboy operators beware: certification scheme breaks new ground

Endorsed by organisations across the industry, the CTSP Register certifies individuals rather than their employers. Is this the long advocated breakthrough needed to combat rogue traders?

3. Finally: A fire-safety standard that defines ‘competence’ – now we need a qualification

Martin Harvey, Head of European Regulatory Affairs, Tyco International, on how the new standard, EN 16763 ‘Services for Fire Safety and Security Systems’, focuses purely on service delivery.

2. Watch: The skills crisis in fire and security engineering laid bare

There is a chronic skills gap in fire and security. As well as outlining the problem, the video below explores some of these solutions pioneered by the likes of CSL, the ECA, the NSI, the BSIA, the FIA and SSAIB.

1. Many engineers are far more valuable than their managers – and their salaries should reflect this

Integrations consultant Michael Lines offered tips on recruiting and retaining engineers/integrators and argued that muddled thinking over managerial roles is exacerbating the skills gap.