The City of London Crime Prevention Association (CoLCPA) has proudly relaunched the Building Security Assessment Scheme in collaboration with the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) at Fishmongers’ Hall in the heart of the City of London.
Security and fire safety
Formerly known as CoLCPA’s Building Security Accreditation, this long-standing initiative, developed from a collaboration involving the City of London Police, the City of London Corporation, representatives of managing agents, and the security industry, aims to strengthen security and fire safety standards within multi-occupied commercial buildings.
In existence for more than a decade, the scheme serves as a benchmark reflecting the commitment of the property owners or their representatives to safeguarding their premises, staff, visitors, and the public.
Self-assessment
Applicants undertake a self-assessment of their building’s security strengths and vulnerabilities
Earlier in 2023, in response to evolving security needs, CoLCPA invited NSI to refresh the scheme, ensuring it aligns with the current security requirements while being practical for those overseeing building security. NSI is the sole third-party assessing body and has also taken over the administration of the scheme, streamlining the process for applicants.
Applicants undertake a self-assessment of their building’s security strengths and vulnerabilities, followed by an independent on-site review by NSI. This process provides valuable insight into the existing strengths and constructive feedback for potential improvements.
Comprehensive scheme criteria
The comprehensive scheme criteria cover risk assessments, evacuation and evacuation plans, trauma pack accessibility, Safe Haven status, electronic security measures, and personnel training including Project Kestrel fire training and counter-terror training.
Following a successful pilot in London, the first premises assessed under the new scheme received their award certificates at CoLCPA’s November meeting:
- 125 Old Broad Street, London EC2, Cushman and Wakefield, security provider: Unitrust
- 1 Curzon Street, London W1, landlord: Colliers, security provider: Vigilant
- Berkeley Square House, London W1 landlord: Colliers, security provider: Vigilant
- 33 Cavendish Square, London W1, landlord Colliers, security provider: Vigilant
Future-proof current and planned changes
The scheme will enhance the safety and security of all building occupants, and support the blue light services"
Don Randall MBE, Chairman City of London Crime Prevention Association commented, “The CoLCPA are extremely pleased to be able to partner with NSI and update and refresh the newly formed 'Building Security Assessment Scheme'."
"The scheme will enhance the safety and security of all building occupants, support the blue light services, and future-proof current and planned legislative changes."
Demonstrate security commitments
Richard Fogelman, NSI Chief Executive responded, “With over 50 years of experience in the security sector, we are honored to be chosen as CoLCPA’s trusted independent assessing body for the Building Security Assessment Scheme. Reviewing and enhancing the scheme has been a privilege, ensuring its relevance in today’s challenging environment."
“We extend an invitation to commercial property owners and representatives in London to apply for the scheme to visibly demonstrate their security commitments and instill confidence their building security operations are dedicated to continual improvement.”
Building Security Assessment Scheme certification
We have demonstrated our commitment to keeping our tenants and the wider public safe"
Peter Lavery, FSyI, Associate Director, EMEA Security & Operational Resilience Manager, Cushman, and Wakefield said, “Cushman & Wakefield is delighted to be amongst the first to have achieved this City of London Crime Prevention Association & National Security Inspectorate recognized ‘Building Security Assessment Scheme certification."
"By submitting our building’s safety and security operation to a rigorous assessment process we have demonstrated our commitment to keeping our tenants and the wider public safe."
Test, evaluate, and improve
"Cushman & Wakefield is determined to continue to provide a safe and welcoming place for businesses, the public, and the local community and we are committed to working with the Police and our security partners to continuously test, evaluate and improve our processes."
“We are especially proud that the assessment was facilitated by our Building Management team and Unitrust as one of our security partners, in the spirit of collaboration the award was ultimately achieved by a multi-disciplinary team, all of whom are committed to safety, security, and defeating crime.”