G4S has revealed how its Czech Republic Monitoring and Alarm Centre is aiding 5000+ sites on a 24/7 basis.
Remote access and alarm system management are other key capabilities.
“Active risk management is the centre’s purpose”
Pavel Franko, Managing Director for G4S Czech Republic said: “Active risk management is the centre’s purpose: we minimise response times, consolidate oversight for clients with multiple sites and augment their security officers on the ground.”
“We can remotely open supply gates or verify access authorisation via an intercom.
“If we receive a fire or security alarm alert, we can dispatch a response team or contact the emergency services.
“With AI analytics embedded into our video monitoring, operators are immediately alerted to movement in a restricted zone or when a suspicious object is suspected.”
He continued: “They will assess the situation and decide if an intervention is necessary or if it’s a false alarm.”
Unique structure
G4S said that the certification confirms that the building’s construction, alarm systems, power supply and management processes are professionally secured – and staff meet strict professional criteria.
Audits are undertaken to ensure these rigorous technical requirements are maintained.
Specifically, the walls and doors must withstand forced entry attempts, gunshots or explosions.
There is a two-stage entry verification to ensure no unauthorised person can enter and advanced fire suppression systems that won’t damage any electronics.
Continuity of technology services is fundamental and a standard outage must not take the centre offline.
As well as having backup power, there is also a backup server and two independent data paths to ensure an alarm doesn’t disappear into a “black hole” if a cable is accidentally cut on the street, for example.
Cybersecurity and data protection are key considerations too.
According to G4S, all communications between client sites and the monitoring centre is encrypted and strict controls are in place to limit access to camera footage and sensitive data.
Monitoring systems are separated from the standard internet to minimise hacking risks.
Specialised drills for staff
Staff have to meet strict professional criteria and a minimum number are on shift at all times.
According to the company, they undergo a rigorous onboarding process and comprehensive initial training which covers internal systems, emergency protocols and client-specific requirements.
Standardised procedures are embedded into operations; there is no improvisation, just a fast and precise response.
G4S explained that regular refresher courses and specialised drills ensure continuous development and prepares staff for any situation, no matter how complex.
“Meet and exceed their demands”
Franko concluded: “A lot of our clients are banks which have some of the most rigorous security requirements in the world.
“The monitoring centre is specifically designed to meet and exceed their demands – we are the only reliable partner for those who can’t compromise in security.”
