Security Issues

We work for one of the largest building societies in the UK. They required new, resilient integrated physical security systems across their branch network in order to demonstrate they have shown a duty of care to their staff under the Health & Safety at Work Act (1974) (HSAW) and to protect the Society’s members and customers when on the premises. They also wanted to manage risk to their corporate infrastructure, assets, data, and brand reputation.

How did we deliver this project?

Pointer rolled-out a scalable, robust open-protocol solution incorporating several elements, which was standardised across the branch network. The integrated system included:

• CCTV and VMS (Video management systems – in this case we chose Milestone as the integrated system. Pointer are a Milestone Platinum Channel Partner and their innovative product is ideal for this client. The cameras managed by the Milestone solution are Axis – best in class for their low-light technology, and 360-panoramic cameras, providing wider views. Pointer are Axis Gold Partners.
• EACS (Electronic Access Control) – Pointer selected Nedap for this project.
• IDS (Intruder Detection System – Galaxy Control Panels with Grade 3 Detection

Challenges Overcome

Our biggest challenge was always the requirement of retaining ‘live’ systems during the upgrade whilst the branch remained open during normal working hour. We reviewed the installation requirements and following discussions with the client, we agreed to carry out the majority of work out of normal working hours to minimise risk to staff whilst the branch was open. This allowed the systems to be partially ‘down’ through the night with no cash retained on the premises and Pointer employing manned guarding as an additional precaution. This allowed systems to be upgraded through the night and put back into operation for the following day with parts of the systems migrated to new technology and tested prior to the branch opening