Scaffold alarms standard gives boost to building security

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) has introduced what it claims is the UK’s first Code of Practice for the design, installation and maintenance of scaffold alarms.

The certification body for the security and fire sectors believes the Code of Practice NCP 115 has the potential to significantly improve the security of buildings in vulnerable circumstances.

Describing the installation of scaffold alarms as a growing market, the NSI says this area has not, to date, been the subject of any form of self-regulation or industry-specific standards. Given the access opportunity scaffolding provides for trespassers, the Code is expected to provide a valuable aid for those with a vested interest in the security of buildings or the reduction of accidents, including the insurance and health and safety sectors, respectively.

The Code stipulates appropriate measures be put in place to ensure scaffold alarms are installed in a consistent manner, taking into consideration the potential risks and areas of weakness.

The NSI believes that contracting an installer who complies with the Code will provide the end-user with the reassurance that the vulnerability of their property (and others nearby) and the assets within are appropriately protected during periods of building, renovation, maintenance, or repair.

“Certificating installers of scaffold alarm systems marks an exciting new era in the development of NSI’s certification capability,” commented Chris Pinder, the Inspectorate’s external affairs director. “Scaffolding provides an alternative means of access and egress for the intruder and it is important that the consumer has the peace of mind they are utilising the services of a professional scaffold alarms provider, operating to a dedicated industry Code of Practice.”

He continued: “NSI has undertaken a pilot phase, during which time we have been working with a prominent scaffold security provider, who has been robustly tested against the Code’s requirements.

“Scaffolding alarm systems will be an additional scope of approval within our certification schemes for installers of electronic security systems and a public announcement regarding the first approved installer company will be issued in the very near future.”

News via: SHP Safety & Health Practitioner.

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