Frequently Asked Questions
Are there Circumstances that Require My Business to Hire a Security Consultant?
There are two basic situations that suggest, if not require, the need to hire a Security Consultant. First, every organization should review and update their Security Management Plan at least every five years. Second, if your organization has experienced an adverse or significant event, a security assessment should be performed.
How Do I Know if the Security for My Business or Hospital is Adequate?
Chances are you suspect something is wrong from a Security standpoint in your business, or you may be seeking validation on your organization’s present security measures or processes. We recommend you contact a Certified Security Expert for a quick consult. In many cases, an initial consultation with a reputable Security Consultant could be beneficial, and you may get some questions answered for free.
Can Hiring a Security Consultant Save My Business Money?
The short answer is, “Yes”. Often, an organization’s Security Program is overlooked because it is not a revenue generating area. However, a well thought out Security Program can save your business thousands, if not millions of dollars with an effective Loss Prevention Program, and through the application of Risk Mitigation and Liability Avoidance strategies. In fact, Enterprise Security Risk Management (ESRM) is now an operational strategy included in the business plans for most successful corporations. By leveraging the expertise of a qualified Security Consultant, an organization can indirectly increase its bottom line.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HIRE A SECURITY CONSULTANT WHO IS “INDEPENDENT”?
There are many Vendors who claim to be “Consultants” but their PRIMARY business is selling security technology or protective services. In certain limited situations it may be appropriate for these Vendors to render advice. However, when consultants render advice which includes purchasing their other products and services, a conflict of interest arises (even if the “advice” is sound). For example: a guard service recommends you add Security Officers. In these circumstances it is entirely appropriate to be skeptical of any “advice” provided that somehow enhances their bottom line. On the other hand, these questions or concerns do not exist with an Independent Consultant.
Why Should I Hire an Independent Security Consultant to Perform an Assessment?
There are many “Consultants” who are also engaged in selling security technology or protective services. This may be appropriate in certain limited situations. However, when consultants make their living selling their products and services, a conflict of interest arises. For example: a guard service recommends you add Security Officers. In these circumstances it is entirely appropriate to be skeptical of any “advice” provided that somehow enhances their bottom line. On the other hand, these questions or concerns do not exist with an Independent Consultant.
How Can I Tell I am Dealing with a Reputable Security Consultant?
Finding the right Security Consultant is like finding the right tool in your toolbox to get the job done. The three most important considerations are the Consultant’s Certifications, Experience, and areas of Expertise. Certifications are issued by trade organizations after candidates have demonstrated requisite proficiency, work experience and have had their knowledge independently tested & validated. Certifications are an indicator of reliability. We suggest you seek out Consultants with Certifications like CPP (Certified Protection Professional), PSP (Physical Security Professional) or PCI (Professional Certified Investigator) issued by leading trade organizations such as the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS). Top Healthcare Security Experts are typically Certified Healthcare Protection Associates (CHPA), as designated by the International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety. Total years of experience in Security is an important factor, and the area of specialization you need assistance in can also an important consideration.
How Do I Select a Security Consultant for My Business?
This depends upon the complexity of the issue(s) you are seeking assistance with, the experience of the Consultant, and the type of business. Most Security Consultants specialize in certain businesses or industries. However, many Security Consultants are “Generalists” who can provide sound advice on generic Security issues. As a rule, for industries that are highly regulated (such as Hospitals or Nuclear Power Plants), you should try to hire a Consultant who has practical working experience and specializes in those areas. For example, if you want to install a CCTV system in a Residential Apartment Building most Security Consultants should be able to assist. However, if you are looking to install a CCTV system in a Hospital or Healthcare setting, you probably want to go with a Consultant who specializes in Healthcare Security. One reason being is there are Regulations and Privacy Laws that govern where video monitoring can occur.
Is There Such a Thing as Too Little, or Too Much Security?
Yes, to both questions. Too little Security can create an unsafe environment and may leave you exposed to theft, liability, and lawsuits for Negligent Security. Too much Security can be a waste of money, alter your organization’s culture, and adversely impact your business throughput. Too much Security can also unnecessarily create a perception with your customers or patients that your business is unsafe. A Security Consultant can advise you exactly what security measures are reasonable and necessary.
What Services Does SSMC Provide that my Security Manager Cannot?
If your business has a Director or Manager of Security, you are already ahead in the game. While this person may be very good at what they do, even very good Security Managers become “one-dimensional” in the sense they are set in their ways and may not be aware of processes or technology that can assist in creating a more secure environment. What a Security Consultant adds is expertise and an outside perspective that your existing Director or Manager may not have.
My Security Manager Says Hiring a Security Consultant Would be a Waste of Money. Is the Manager Correct?
It is generally a red-flag and sign of insecurity if your Security Manager pushes back against hiring an Independent Consultant. The more resistance you receive, the more you probably need a Consultant to give you an unbiased assessment. The most competent and progressive Security Practitioners are confident in their abilities and usually jump at an opportunity to hire an Independent Security Consultant. This is often seen as an opportunity to seek support or a second opinion on proposed security measures, validate the existing Security Program, or a way to indirectly showcase the Manager or Director’s leadership capabilities by having the Consultant expound upon his or her capabilities and security skillset.