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
June 11, 2021
We round up day three of IFSEC Connect, which featured a live panel discussion on the future of intruder alarms and detection. Read More
June 8, 2021
Why 5G is really beginning to make an impact on the security industry and what challenges are on the horizon in implementing private networks. Read More
June 4, 2021
An overview on the benefits of Power over Ethernet (PoE), as well as an explanation of the terminology associated with the technology. Read More
June 3, 2021
IFSEC Global speaks to Ambush Security to understand how an installation company responded to the COVID pandemic. Read More
May 28, 2021
Security and fire training body, Skills for Security, has appointed Darrell Gilmour as its new Director of Technical Training. Read More
May 24, 2021
Explaining the value the KNX open protocol can bring to systems integrators and why it can open up new business opportunities for installers. Read More
May 21, 2021
Integrating access monitoring systems with fire detection and evacuation procedures are set to be crucial to ensuring occupant safety. Read More
May 6, 2021
Design Automator demonstrates its SaaS solution for the security systems industry that automates the engineering process. Read More
April 28, 2021
SSAIB has announced it has achieved accreditation for BAFE’s SP207 scheme for emergency evacuation systems. Read More
April 21, 2021
Engineers of Tomorrow is back for 2021, providing the opportunity for the next generation of security & fire apprentices to showcase their skills! Read More