CoLCPA and NSI announce Building Security Assessment Scheme

December 1, 2023

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.

Formerly known as CoLCPA’s Building Security Accreditation, this long-standing initiative, developed from a joint 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.

Earlier this year in response to evolving security needs, CoLCPA invited NSI to refresh the scheme, ensuring it aligns with today’s security requirements while being practical for those overseeing building security. NSI is the sole third party assessing body and has also taken over 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.

The comprehensive scheme criteria cover risk assessments, evacuation and invacuation 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

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.”

Richard Fogelman, NSI Chief Executive responded:

“With over 50 years of experience in the security sector, we are honoured 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 instil confidence their building security operations are dedicated to continual improvement.”

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 recognised ‘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.

“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.”

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