The link between manufacturers of fire and security systems and the professionals monitoring CCTV feeds in the control room, installers perform a vital role. They do more than just install CCTV, intruder alarms, access control systems, fire alarms and other systems; they also help customers design a system fit for purpose for their needs – in terms of number and type of cameras, their position, the choice of NVR, VMS and back-up storage, and so on.
Also known as engineers, they increasingly position themselves as ‘integrators’ of increasingly interoperable, disparate systems.
Technological change is transforming physical-security technologies and with it the installer’s role. Continual education is therefore paramount if they are to adapt their business models to thrive in a fast-evolving landscape. Cyber security, for instance, is a major priority as installers upskill, and many are moving beyond merely selling boxes of equipment to a service-based model amid the rise of the cloud and remote maintenance. And, as security and fire systems become more integrated, it is crucial that engineers play their part in protecting devices from potential cyber attacks – an issue that the entire supply chain must address.
The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) is aiming to support installers in improving their cyber understanding of physical devices, having launched a cyber security code of practice for engineers in July 2020.
Does your business install, integrate or maintain intruder alarm systems (or have plans to)? This trend report reveals the latest trends and installer insight into the sector, so be sure to take a look!
Young apprentices battling it out at the IFSEC & FIREX Engineers of Tomorrow competition
Similarly to many trade-based industries, such as the plumbing, heating and building sectors, there is a widely acknowledged and concerning skills gap in the electrical security and fire engineering profession. Attempts are being made to combat it, with larger installer companies such as SECOM and Banham Security hosting their own apprenticeship training schemes, while external training specialists – the BSIA run Skills for Security, for instance – are also working hard to improve standards and numbers of the next generation of installers coming through.
A major step forward was the implementation of the FESS (Fire, Emergency and Security Systems) apprenticeship standard, following a Government Review of all apprenticeships across England. You can read our guide to the standard, below.
Additional apprenticeship news and initiatives include:
A beginner’s guide to security franchises
Sales Tips for Security & Fire Installers
Marketing Advice for Security Installers
Is that ‘Bit of Work on the Side’ Worth the Risk?
How to Kill Your Installation Business in 6 Easy Steps
Some Corners a Security Installation Shouldn’t Cut
Screening and Vetting Job Candidates to British Standard 7858
Is Partnering With Manufacturers: Good or Bad?
Installers Have to Answer the Call
Should Security Installers Diversify into Fire?
Smart Buildings: New Code of Practice for Connected Systems Integration
The Morphing Integrator: The Role of the Security Systems Integrator Evolves
CCTV Guide – Setting your Objectives and Requirements
3 Key Elements of any CCTV system
Specifying and Installing Fire-Rated Partitions and Doors
IP Integration in Fire Safety: FIA
Building Information Modelling: Merits and Limitations for Installers
Overpromising & Underdelivering: How Cutting-Edge Tech Is Often a Waste of Money
Pros and Cons of choosing a Small vs Large Integrator
Physical Security Information Management: an integrator’s view
September 18, 2020
Remote service is nothing new for the security industry, but it is likely to accelerate during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond, says Anthony Brennan, President, Chubb Fire & Security. Read More
September 15, 2020
This year's IFSEC Global Influencers in Security and Fire have been revealed! Find out the results, here. Read More
September 4, 2020
James Fell from What Franchise explains how security franchises work and the key benefits installers should consider over ‘going it alone’. Read More
September 2, 2020
Ecl-ips, a CCTV and access control system designer and installer, has recently acquired Bristol-based alarms specialist, Security Group, to expand […] Read More
August 19, 2020
Apollo Fire Detectors has released a firmware update for the 'Apollo Test Set', designed to save engineers time on site and assist in fault finding. Read More
August 18, 2020
The BSIA is urging security installers to take swift action on their alarm signalling estates in advance of the transition to an all IP (Internet Protocol) fibre-based voice service. Read More
August 14, 2020
Skills for Security has announced it has successfully achieved and been appointed as a Preferred Provider with The Joint Industry Board. Read More
August 14, 2020
Jamie Allam, CEO Amthal Fire & Security, looks at the critical role of the fire and security industry and highlights that professionals should remain focused on the crucial work they do, despite the challenging situation. Read More
August 12, 2020
The FESS industry has introduced a new Occupational Qualification Structure leading to Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) Card recognition. Read More
August 5, 2020
NSI took part in an apprenticeship training session with young apprentices at Secom plc, as part of the FESS Apprenticeship scheme. Read More