Release date: 28th February 2008
The role of the security manager is growing in complexity as society and organisations face challenges from terrorism, rising violent crime, civil disorder, anti-social behaviour and emerging threats. The pace of change has prompted a review of the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the role and, following detailed consultation with a wide range of security managers, Skills for Security has announced the publication of a new suite of NOS.
The process involved experienced security professionals working alongside the Skills for Security standards writing team, and was overseen by a steering group which included the Security Institute and the Risk & Safety Managers Forum.
John Smith, Group Resilience Director of Prudential Plc and spokesperson for the Steering group comments "The approval of the Security Management National Occupational Standards is a major milestone in the increasing professionalisation of the management of security. It recognises the contributions of time and expertise of many people across the sector, some of them for over many years. It will be an important tool for employers and for staff wishing to progress to the highest levels of the profession."
At the request of the Security Industry Authority, Skills for Security has also recently completed writing the first ever National Occupational Standards for Precognition Agents, an occupation unique to Scotland that involves interviewing witnesses for the purpose of criminal or civil proceedings.
Ruth Oliver, Standards Development Manager of Skills for Security said "Industry support is essential for the development of NOS and the assistance that we received for both of these projects was overwhelming. The industry is keen to support the development of NOS because of the benefits that NOS can provide for both individuals and organisations."
All of the National Occupational Standards developed by Skills for Security, on behalf of the sector are available to download from the National Occupational Standards Directory, which can be accessed via: www.ukstandards.org.uk.
