APE Fire And Security Explains Intruder Alarm Grades And Different Security Grades

When it comes to security, not all intruder alarm systems are created equal. With so many features and benefits to compare between brands and products, it can be a daunting task trying to navigate through all this technical information to find equipment and systems most suitable for users’ particular needs.

Intruder alarms are categorized into 4 different grades, based on their levels of performance (such as functionality, reliability, and durability). Anyone who is thinking of installing, upgrading or changing their intruder alarm system, should understand this grade system to ensure they feel confident in their building security.

Intruder Alarm Grades

These grades are measured on an increasing level of sophistication and resilience against intrusion and break-ins

Choosing the correct grade intruder alarm is not only important for protecting a property, but it may be needed to meet certain insurance requirements too. In Britain and Europe, intruder alarm systems, and the equipment used within them, are categorized into a grade system, between 1-4.

These grades are measured on an increasing level of sophistication and resilience against intrusion and break-ins, with Grade 4 representing the highest level of security.

Most installations for domestic homes will require a Grade 1 or 2, with larger/high-risk homes falling into Grade 3. Most commercial properties are likely to fall within Grade 2 or 3 systems. Grade 4 is rare due to the standards required and is only recommended for very high-risk properties.

Potentially creating vulnerabilities

Something else worth noting is that a security system grade is only as high as the lowest grade component within the system. For example, if an intruder alarm system included 10 devices/components that were Grade 3, but one device that was Grade 2, the overall Grade for that system would be 2.

This is due to the lower Grade equipment or devices potentially creating vulnerabilities within the whole system, thus bringing down the overall level of security. Below is a brief description for each grade. For a more in-depth review of each grade, contact their expert team who will be more than happy to explain things in more detail.

Preventing inexperienced attackers

Grade 2 systems offer additional security through better technology and reliability

Grade 1 - Grade 1 is the lowest level of intruder alarm system. It is designed to protect against basic theft and intrusion. It should be adequate at preventing inexperienced attackers from entering a property. This is likely to include the protection of major entry points such as a front door but may not protect other parts of a building.

It assumes the burglar/thief doesn’t know how to disarm alarm systems. This is recommended for low-risk buildings that don’t have valuable content or that aren’t located in a high-risk area.

Grade 2 - Grade 2 systems offer additional security through better technology and reliability. This level is prepared for burglars with some knowledge and preparation for the attack. It protects multiple entry points and offers a more comprehensive solution. This is often suitable for higher-risk homes and lower-risk small commercial properties (as recommended by BIBA).

Wired security solutions

Grade 3 - Grade 3 systems are designed to combat burglars and attackers with advanced knowledge, tools, and equipment (including portal electronic devices). The system is comprehensive and protects all potential entry points of a building. High-risk homes and lots of commercial properties fall into this category.

Grade 3 is currently only given to wired security solutions, so any wireless systems will fall into Grade 1 or 2. Grade 4 - Grade 4 is the highest level of security and is consequently designed to protect against the most professional and targeted attack. Grade 4 systems are quite rare on the market due to the utmost standards required. High-risk properties containing valuable or dangerous contents would likely fall into this category.

Risk Assessment and grade recommendations

When it comes to security, it is always recommended to get professional advice and recommendations

When it comes to security, it is always recommended to get professional advice and recommendations. Guessing what systems to use and using unqualified installers are irresponsible and dangerous. Their experienced surveyors can advise users on all types of security systems to provide them with the optimum level of security to suit their budget.

This involves reviewing the property and designing tailored recommendations for products, system design, and overall installation and maintenance. The type of security system and design they would recommend will depend entirely on the site visit and risk assessment. Once they understand all the potential risk, value of contents, property layout, and other key metrics, they can make tailored recommendations.

Smoke screen products

For properties requiring high levels of security, the systems can be fully monitored by being linked to a central monitoring station, which will immediately notify the local police or nominated key holder should an alarm be activated. Their intruder alarm systems can also be integrated with panic attack buttons, CCTV systems, access control, and smoke screen products.

All the security systems adhere to the regulations imposed by the National Security Inspectorate, the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), and all insurance companies. This means users have peace of mind when it comes to the security of their property.

Highest industry standards

As National Security Inspectorate (NACOSS) Gold-approved installer for security systems and a dedicated member of The British Security Industry Association (BSIA), their systems are designed and installed to comply with the highest industry standards.

Their association with CHAS (Contractor Health & Safety) and SAFE Contractor guarantees that the policies and procedures are at the forefront of Health and Safety standards.