Two-thirds of UK companies admit to never testing their security

Almost two-thirds (63%) of UK companies have admitted to never testing their physical security according to Setting the Standard for Security, a report from security expert Jacksons Fencing.
Given that 22% of companies say that the consequences of a breach are severe, including public disruption or even loss of life, these findings are cause for concern.
Less than half of survey respondents had heard of key security certifications, including LPCB’s LPS 1175 (45%) and SBD (42%), and only 38% ever consult security experts. Worryingly this suggests many are unaware their solutions may not be fit for purpose or what criteria they should be looking for.
Third party certification bodies such as the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) and police initiative Secured by Design (SBD) help to provide specifiers with independently tested  security products that will offer an appropriate level of protection against forced entry depending on a site’s needs. Recently the LPCB introduced LPS 1175: Issue 8, a new performance classification system that provides an even deeper and adaptive approach that identifies and tackles the increasingly diverse methods and attack tools used by hostile actors.
The introduction of LPS 1175: Issue 8 fits with the priorities of those specifying security solutions. In Jacksons’ recent study, they reported the most important factor during commissioning was ‘tested and proven effectiveness’ (89%). This shows that there is the desire to implement security solutions but there might not be sufficient openly available information to do so. In fact, one fifth (19%) listed a lack of technical information as a main challenge.
One of the main benefits to LPS 1175: Issue 8 is that the new matrix style classification system, indicated by the tool category and minimum delay (minutes), offers greater flexibility and clarity when it comes to security specification. The updated classification also supports a proportionate, layered approach to security specification, helping to facilitate far more economical specification of forced entry protection.
Simon Folwell, Security Consultant at Jacksons Fencing, comments: “We understand the daunting task facing those within the security buying chain who might not have a formal security background. It is a complex matter, demanding a thorough understanding to successfully navigate its challenges, as the security landscape is constantly evolving.
“However it is worrying that there seems to be a distinct lack of motivation from some companies to take the initiative to properly secure their premises. Thankfully Issue 8 should deliver a greater depth of understanding for those specifying security solutions, a much needed addition to LPCB’s stringent certification process.”
Setting the Standard for Security, is an in-depth study into the UK security landscape that analyses risks and solutions for businesses and decision makers. The report was supported by research carried out via survey amongst security decision makers from a range of companies from different sectors. A roundtable with some of the UK’s foremost security experts who have worked with organisations such as Border Force and the Association of Security Consultants was also carried out in tandem with the surveys.