Introduction
This method statement sets out guidelines on how to conduct yourself and perform your duties in a safe manner. The purpose of this statement is to set out possible dangers or risks associated with your duties and the method of control to manage the task safely.
The following guidance should be followed in accordance with your risk assessments and the written assignment instructions. This method statement is, fundamentally, a written safe system of work.
Ensure you make yourself aware of any client Method Statements applicable to your area of work and that You have received a site induction
Emergency Situations
As a uniformed presence the security officer (SO) is seen as key and will play an important part in emergency situations. No two emergencies will be the same and some events may be more likely than others, the SO should the following principles:
1: Remain Calm — take care of your personal safety and the safety of others.
2: Give priority to personal safety — do not risk your own safety and the safety of those around you.
3:Remember your training and Assignment Instructions — follow procedures. .
4: Give warning and summon help – Warn others of pending or imminent danger and summon help. It is imperative to alert others in an emergency situation and to summon appropriate help as soon as possible.
5: Remember to keep in contact with Control or the ‘on scene’ controller as the situation develops and not just
at the outset.
Don’t wait until an emergency occurs. Always think safety first and make yourself familiar with potential risks and ’hazards on site. Officers should look out for potential hazards for example making sure escape routes are kept clear and ensure good housekeeping is maintained.
When dealing with an emergency remember your training and assignment Instructions and ask yourself, “Do you know the following?”
1: Who should be informed in the event of an emergency?
2: Have I the specific information they will need?
3: Where personnel should be directed to?
4: What action should be taken?
If you are unsure please refer to your Contract Manager as soon as possible.
In the absence of precise guidance then follow the emergency guidelines in the Assignment Instructions.
In all circumstances inform the Control Room.
Sos will have an in-depth understanding of the assignment.Should any deficiencies be found on site or in the Assignment Instructions concerning emergency planning ,these must be raised with your contract manager, so remedial action can be taken.
Emergency Telephone Calls
if you are required to make a 999 emergency call remember to state which service is required: police, fire or ambulance.You will be asked to give details of the incident and will be required to be brief and clear in your response.listen carefully follow any instructions given. Remember if making the call from an internal line you may required
additional 9 to obtain an outside line. Remember ABC:
Accuracy – Be accurate with information given
Brevity – Keep it brief
Clarity – Be clear in what you require
Fire
if you are required to make a 999 emergency call remember to state which service is required: police, fire or ambulance.You will be asked to give details of the incident and will be required to be brief and clear in your response.listen carefully follow any instructions given. Remember if making the call from an internal line you may required
additional 9 to obtain an outside line. Remember ABC:
Accuracy – Be accurate with information given
Brevity – Keep it brief
Clarity – Be clear in what you require
Evacuation procedures
The SO shall be
1- Familiar with all escape routes on the site — remembering that during an emergency some escape routes may be unusable
2- Be familiar with the sound of an evacuation signal
3- Be ready to guide occupants to the escape routes
4- Act calmly and encourage occupants to leave in an orderly fashion
5- After the evacuation everyone should be accounted for at the Fire Assembly Point procedures for this should be specified as required.
First Aid
The role of the first aider is to:
1) Preserve life
2) Prevent the condition from worsening ‘
3) Promote recovery
Should you find a casualty who appears to be unconscious, remember:
Danger – Check for Danger—to yourself and others
Response – Check for a Response — talk to the casualty and try to alert them
Send – Send for Help — ask someone to call 999 and advise you when
they have done so
Airway – Check Airway is clear — i.e. obstructions; sweets, loose false
teeth. Tilt head back to open airway.
Breathing – Check for Breathing — place your ear against their mouth and look
down their torso
Circulation – Check for Circulation — are their lips pink, do they have a pulse.
Be prepared to start CPR if required.
Static Guarding/ Reception Duties
SOs shall read assignment instructions held on site. You shall familiarise yourself with site-specific needs and requirements. On arrival at the site ensure you read the previous completed daily logs to acquaint yourself with any recent incidents or problem areas and discuss any issues on handover.
As an SO you will be at greater risk if:
* You are not properly trained if you are not certain about the correct procedures, ask your CM if unsure.
* You do not remain current with site safety rules or you ignore them.
* You are allocated to a new site and you do not familiarise yourself with potential hazards, ask during the Handover period and contact your CM to clarify, do not put yourself in danger.
Patrolling
Prior to commencing a patrol the SO must ensure all Personal Protective Equipment, (PPE), is being worn to suit the conditions. You must be dressed smartly and have your ID badge clearly on display. Personal Protective Equipment,(PPE), must also be carried or worn as per the Assignment Instructions and site rules.
PPE may include any of the following items:
1-High viz coat or vest
2- Safety footwear (shoes or boots)
3- Clip-on tie
4- Hard hat — check for any damage prior to use.
5- Ear defenders
6- Safety glasses
7- Coveralls
The items In bold above must be worn at all times when on patrol, additional items
as relevant to the site.
Any equipment that is provided must be carried whilst on patrol. Such items may
include the following:
1- VHF/ UHF handheld Radio (if issued)
2- Mobile phone
3- Torch
4-Handheld data recorder
Ensure you follow your patrol instructions, some sites will require the SO to make contact with the Control Room prior to commencing a patrol. This will be clearly stated in the Assignment Instructions.
The SOs shall conduct the patrol in accordance with their instructions and remember to check the integrity of the fence, doors and windows. Check for any sources of ignition from electric heaters or overheating machinery and advise control if any of these risks are present. Ensure the client’s site is left in a safe and secure condition.
During the patrol the SO shall:
1- Put personal safety above all other considerations — both for themselves and others.
2-Keep to the designated patrol areas and / or marked walkways.
3-Avoid exclusion areas, these should be physically marked off or detailed clearly in the Assignment instructions.
4- Stay alert, even if you are familiar with the site -— it’s easy to relax and become complacent when patrolling the same route.
5- Remember hazards change on a daily basis and items may have been left on walkways or around blind corners.
6-Vary the patrol times and routes (subject to Al’s) so your route cannot be predicted or determined by others.
7- From the entrance, work your way into any building or area, checking as you go —this ensures that the escape route is clear and safe.
8- OBSERVE & REPORT ONLY — DO NOT TACKLE INTRUDERS FOUND ON SITE
9- Use a torch to look as far ahead as possible.
10- Do not use lifts when working alone or at night.
11-Where possible avoid walking close to blind corners or near obstructions where intruders may be hiding.
12-Try to patrol quietly and listen for signs of unusual activity, especially before you move into an area.
13- Consider retracing your route to ensure your patrol is unpredictable.
14- in down time conduct mini patrols or spot checks between main patrols (to be less predictable).
15- Be aware of communication blind spots, where your phone may experience poor reception.
16-While on patrol remain vigilant for fire and safety hazards.
The SO must always comply with site signage, (i.e. PPE requirements, no access) at all times.
When patrolling, SOs must use their common sense – avoid taking shortcuts and do not climb over obstacles. You should make yourself aware of the site you are assigned to, and use site plans & maps if available to plan the route Where possible avoid the soft or uneven ground and icy patches.
Once the patrol is complete, the Control Room should be advised if required and ensure you update Your patrol sheet.
If the SO spots something hazardous they must report it via the Control Room and complete an entry in the Sites Hazard Report Book. This report should be notified to the Control Room and their CM.
Inclement Weather
The so must be aware of the prevailing weather conditions. Common sense must be used when patrolling during icy or when snow is on the ground. When hazardous areas, (slip, trip or fall risks) are identified, avoid the area. observing from a safe area as much as is possible, make note in the log that the area has not been checked as usual and why.
Building Sites
In addition to general patrolling above, the following applies when assigned to construction or demolition Sites.
1- Follow site rules and procedures to the letter. These may be more complex.
2- Be aware that the site risks will change hourly, as work continues.
3-Check who is working late or out of hours.
4- Know what is planned and what machinery is going to be working.
5- Due to the risk of falling objects – always check the above as appropriate.
6- On-site generators (portable or otherwise) are not to be re-fuelled by Dardan staff. Contact Control in the event that the generator requires re-fuelling.
7- Never climb or patrol at height.
8- Keep clear of scaffolding.
9- Always observe site safety signs and PPE requirements.
Dealing with members of the public
SOs will come into contact with the public and every Officer must be aware of the following:
1- First impressions count
2- Must always dress smartly in clean uniform and observe PPE requirements.
3- ID must always be worn, but be aware this means you are identifiable as a representative of the company.
4- Remember you represent both the customer, as well as RED OX GROUP LTD.
5- Conduct yourself in a professional manner.
6- People will judge you on how you behave towards them.
7- Be polite and courteous and non-confrontational.
8- Take ownership of a problem —take messages and report back to Control accurately.
9- Do not accuse anyone of anything.
10- Challenge persons if required in a professional manner.
11- Do not react or retaliate if response is negative. OBSERVE & REPORT ONLY.
Confrontations and Physical Assault
All SOs should be aware of the risks regarding confrontation and Physical Assault. Consider how you would react if you encounter confrontations and try to avoid them from escalating to a physical assault.
- Remember to remain calm, professional, and courteous.
- Remember to ask for the assistance of a colleague or the Police if required.
- Retreat and observe if you believe you are at risk of attack.
- Notify control, so they can monitor your safety and alert others for backup.
- Remain alert to your surroundings and what is happening around you.
Whilst not neglecting your other duties, your priority should be to prevent harm to yourself and others. Ensure that you read and comprehend the risk assessments (Assault and Violence RAs).
Dealing with the threat
Angry members of the public — it will often be possible for the SO to ‘de-escalate’ threatening situations with pOSItive body language and sensitive handling of any complaints. The objective should be to calm the situation down by allowing the aggressor to ‘let off steam’. Try to establish common ground to assist them in seeing you as an equal.
Rowdy groups
People behave differently due to group dynamics and peer pressure the SOs will have less opportunity for ‘de-escalation’ and face a higher risk of being attacked.
- The SO should avoid overt confrontation — be calm, and confident and try to gauge the mood of the group.
- With the right approach, the SO may be able to persuade them to co-operate but should be prepared to move away quickly, i.e. Step back if the response is aggressive.
- Contact Control from a safe distance/environment for assistance and advice.
Criminal gangs, armed robbers
Although much less common, attacks by armed criminals can result in serious violence. The SO should remember that the priority is personal safety and not do anything to aggravate the attackers.
in the event of an incident make notes/records as soon as possible after the event. Perpetrators can be caught by the Police with the information provided there is no need or expectation to be a hero. Do not try to tackle groups or individuals.
Searching
Searching for individuals and vehicles is a common task for those involved in the Security Industry. Although it is regarded as a common practice it is very important to fully understand the process of dos and don’ts. SOS has no authority to conduct a search and all searches are by consent.
Before any type of search can be conducted permission/consent must be obtained from the individual FIRST.
- An independent person/witness must be present during the search.
- Searching must be conducted in a designated room or area.
- Never use force to search someone or proceed with a search if consent has not been given, refer the matter to the client.
Remember to remain courteous and conduct yourself in a professional manner.
By being courteous, professional, and relaxed you are more likely to find something that has been concealed.
Searching can be dangerous and therefore the correct method must be adopted and followed:
- Follow the “hands-off” rule – don’t touch anything you cannot see, and don’t put your hands in bags or pockets.
- Ask the individual to empty bags and pockets for you. ales
- When conducting a rub-down search, same-gender searching is only permitted, males can only search males and females can only search females. (However, a male can search a female’s personal belongings With her consent)
- The “Hands-off” rule applies for your own safety as needles or sharp objects could be in bags and pockets.
- Always ask the individual being searched to open items and empty pockets for you.
- When conducting a search we could find items that if dropped could be dangerous for example, a glass bottle, sharps etc. Be prepared and aware of what you are looking for and the consequences if mishandled.
- Be alert to escalation if you find something concealed or the person becomes agitated.
Hazardous Substances
All hazardous substances found in the office environment will be identified with a warning label. It is the responsibility of all staff to check if the use of the substance is really necessary. If it is, check that any precautions fit your circumstances and that they are understood by all staff. Ensure that all substances are in the manufacturer’s original packaging and that COSHH information is available. These items shall be stored In
accordance with COSHH Regulations
Safety
The following are covered by specific generic risk assessments. If compliance is not possible contact your Contract Manager and/or Safety Advisor:
- Trailing leads should not be allowed —these create tripping hazards.
- Spillages should be cleared up quickly. Eating or drinking at workstations should be avoided.
- Any torn or damaged floor coverings must be replaced or repaired.
- Stairs must be well lit and handrails fitted.
- Passageways must be kept clear.
- Workstations must be comfortable with seating where necessary.
- Seats should be adjustable to suit the height of the work table and footrests can reduce muscular strains.
- Adjust your equipment so that it is comfortable and key items are within easy reach.
- Keep all work areas clean and tidy. Use waste bins responsibly.
- Control rooms are non-smoking areas. Use designated smoking areas.
- The first aid box must be fully stocked and the Appointed Person must be able to take charge in an emergency and have the ability to call the emergency services.
A Display Screen Equipment DSE
There should be a designated area where staff can obtain a break.
The main problems which can occur with the use of VDUs are related to the design of the job or workstation. if there is intensive or continuous use then users must arrange their work and workstation to avoid awkward movements
reflections, aches, and pains.
- Adjust the chair and VDU to find the most comfortable position for your work. As a broad guide the forearms should be approximately horizontal and the eyes just above the top of the VDU. Make sure the screen surface is clean. Adjust the brightness and contrast controls on the screen to suit lighting conditions in the room.
- Don’t sit in the same position for long periods. Make sure you change your posture as often as practicable_
- Some movement is desirable, but avoid repeated stretching to reach things you need. Temperature —ensure ad heating and/or ventilation.
- Ensure you complete a DSE assessment of your workspace.
- seek advice from your Health & Safety Adviser. Rest periods
Rest periods
Rest breaks are to be taken when possible. Breaks are to be taken so that the level of service provided is not affected. On sites where the continuous cover has required the use of the SOS own discretion is required concerning the scheduling of such breaks.
All SOs note
- Breaks are to be taken on the site to which you are assigned, you must not leave the site.
- Officers are to be contactable during their breaks.
- Never assume food or refreshments will be provided. Always make your own arrangements. Fast food deliveries to the site are not permissible, nor are visits from family/friends.
The security of the site must be maintained at all times. - Clean up behind you. All wrappers/rubbish to be removed from the site.
- Fresh water and toilet facilities will always be available on site.
Mobile Patrols
Vehicle Checks
Patrol vehicles are serviced as per the manufacturer’s service schedule. Due to the distances involved with the patrols, it is very important for daily vehicle checks to be undertaken. Oil, Water, Tyres, Lights, & Levels, (coolant, brake fluid, screen wash, etc.), should always be checked before starting the patrol. You are responsible for the vehicle you are driving, so report any faults so they can be rectified.
Any serious problems rendering the vehicle un-roadworthy should be reported to Control so an alternative vehicle can be sourced. Non-serious problems should if possible be rectified by the driver and reported on the Vehicle Check Sheet/ Report.Punctures are common occurrences due to the varying nature of terrain. Be prepared for them. Take time to acquaint yourself with the vehicle and make sure you have all the equipment you need to change a wheel. Learn where the jacking points are located and how the jack operates. Should the vehicle suffer a puncture during the patrol, the spare wheel should be fitted as soon as possible. Pull into a safe location and if appropriate, place the warning triangle some distance behind the vehicle to warn oncoming traffic. Ensure you are wearing your hi viz. vest or coat so you are visible and the location you have selected is safe to change the tire. The deflated tire should not be driven on for longer than necessary. Where possible it is advisable to keep the spare tire in the boot or rear of the van to avoid the fiddly operation of lowering the spare from a cage beneath the vehicle in the dark. An extending wheel brace has been issued to all vehicles to ensure the nuts on the punctured wheel can be removed, even if they have been over-tightened. Inform Control of your situation and location, and confirm to them when you are back on the road.
Driving
Fatigue must be avoided, when combining shift work and driving for extended periods. Plan your off duty time to enable sufficient sleep between shifts to ensure you are adequately rested.
Take regular rest breaks whilst on shift to avoid over tiredness or lapses in concentration. SOs should be aware that prescribed medication may affect concentration, driving may be advised against with some medication. Always check and if in any doubt contact your doctor and advise the Control Room and HumanResources if you are affected. Drivers must not consume alcohol or recreational drugs prior to undertaking any shift. RED OX GROUP LTD have a random testing programme in place. Mandatory speed limits must be observed at all times. The speed limit is the maximum allowed by Law and does not mean that it is safe to drive at that speed irrespective of conditions. Remember that van based vehicles are not permitted to travel above 60 MPH. Maximum vehicle speeds are checked by Management routinely using data provided by the Sat llite Trackers. All patrol vehicles are tracked for your own safety. The Control Room has access to your current position in case a response is not obtained from your welfare check. No SMOKING is permitted in the patrol vehicles. No drinking or eating is permitted unless the vehicle is stationary.
Re-fuelling
Vehicle re-fuelling is to be undertaken at garages that accept company provided fuel cards. Mobile phones shall not be used on garage forecourts. All signs at the Garage must be adhered to. SOs must not smoke when re—fuelling. Care must be taken not to overfill the vehicle and the SO must keep a distance from the vehicle to avoid splash back. Note – all RED OX GROUP LTD patrol vehicles take Diesel. Care must be taken not to re-fuel the vehicle with the wrong type of fuel. Always check first if you are provided with a courtesy car in-lieu of your usual patrol vehicle, and are unsure of which fuel to use, please always check with the Control Room. Jerry cans’ or containers are not to be used unless in an emergency.
Mobile Site patrols
In addition to the patrolling issues raised the mobile driver must acquaint themselves with each site. You shall read the Assignment Instructions for the round which will be located in the specific round file. Familiarise yourself with site-specific needs and requirements. Be aware of the escape routes/fire exits on the sites for that round.
Read the handover book left by drivers on previous rounds to acquaint yourself with any recent incidents. Personal Protective Equipment PPE as supplied must be worn according to the prevailing weather conditions. The SO must always wear either a high visibility vest or jacket and safety boots when assigned to a mobile patrol round.
Each assignment on the round will their own hazards and each will have different requirements in terms of PPE. The Assignment instructions will detail these but all signage is to comply with on-site.
The following personal items must be carried in the vehicle on each shift.
- Safety glasses
- Hard Hat
- Hi-Viz Coat
- Hi Viz Vest
- Life vest (if issued)
- Stab vest (if issued)
Torches and rechargeable batteries have been supplied for use on each r0und. The torch is to be used on the patrol, especially on poorly lit sites. Do not patrol in the dark. Unsafe footing and unlit objects pose a threat to your safety. Please ensure only the rechargeable batteries supplied are placed in the charger. Normal Alkaline batteries may explode if inadvertently placed in the supplied charger by mistake.
Rest periods
it is important for drivers to take a break during the round. Driving when tired can be lethal and regular shorter breaks must also be taken. Most rounds provide the opportunity for you to visit static sites where refreshments are available. This is mutually beneficial as this provides a welfare check for both officers and increases the visual presence of security at the site visited. Drivers’ discretion must be used as and when to take a break. Control must always be advised when breaks commence and end.
Communications
Never use a hand-held device i.e. mobile phone or sat nav whilst driving, apart from being illegal you are not in full control of the vehicle as you are distracted. if your vehicle is not fitted with hands-free kit, you must pull over when safe to do so to answer or make a call or program your sat nav. Don’t be concerned if you cannot answer the phone return the call once you are stationary. Earpiece blue tooth devices are supplied so the phones can be used while on foot patrol only, (handling keys, torches, alarm control panels, etc.) not as hands-free driving kits. Although you may think that a hands-free phone will enable you to control the vehicle, your mind will not be fully on your driving. It is not like talking to a passenger who is aware of the traffic conditions and can see what is happening while you are driving.
Mobile Alarm Response
Alarm response sites are graded according to risk. British Standard BSENSOi 31 -I (2006) defines intruder alarm risk as follows:
Grade
- Low-Risk Intruders are expected to have little knowledge of intruder alarm systems and be restricted to a limited range of easily available tools.
- Low to Medium Risk intruders are expected to have limited knowledge of intruder alarm systems and the use of a general range of tools and portable instruments.
- Medium to High-Risk Intruders are expected to be conversant with intruder alarm systems and have a comprehensive range of tools and portable electronic equipment.
- High Risk To be used when security takes preference over all other factors. Intruders are expected to have the ability or resources to plan an intrusion in detail and have a full range of equipment including means of substitution of vital components in the intruder alarm system.
RED OX GROUP LTD uses the grade of alarm fitted, (1 – 4), along with other factors when categorizing a site, such as a Site location and past security history. This categorization defines how the alarm should be responded to in order to minimize any risk to the mobile patrol officers. “‘
The following risk categories are defined by Dardan Security (the type of response required to an alarm activation will be dependent on the risk category given):
Category 1
- One SO to attend.
- Mobile phone to be carried and Control Room number to be ready to be dialed in an emergency.
- SO to undertake a visual inspection of the site exterior.
- Back up to be requested if evidence of break-in is discovered.
if no sign of break-in is discovered then SO can enter the property to establish the nature of alarm activation. - Control Room to be kept advised of status at all times.
Category 2
- Two SOs to attend.
- Mobile phone to be carried and Control Room number to be ready to be dialed in an emergency.
- SOS to undertake a visual inspection of the site exterior together.
- Control Room to be advised and Police back up to be requested if evidence of break-in is discovered. If no sign of break-in is discovered then SOs can enter the property together to establish the nature of alarm activation. A Control Room to be kept advised of status at all times.
Category 3
- Police attendance is to be requested if alarm activation can be verified.
- Two SOs to attend.
- Phone contact with Control Room to be maintained from arrival on site until the situation is confirmed to be resolved.
- The mobile phone must be carried at all times beware of poor reception.
- The exterior of the site is to be approached and patrolled only when both 505 are in attendance.
- Even if no sign of a break-in is discovered, $05 to wait for police attendance prior to entering the property to establish the nature of alarm activation.
Locks and unlocks
Care must be taken when locking and unlocking premises. This is a vulnerable time and the SOs must take the following precautions to minimize any risk:
- Ensure nobody is following you onto the site. Carry a torch and sweep all areas prior to entering.
- Keep a constant lookout for persons in the vicinity and monitor their behavior prior to approaching the doors to be locked/unlocked. If unsure move back and return to the site minutes later.
- Keep the Control Room advised of your movements.
- Mobile phone to be carried and Control Room number to be ready to be dialed in an emergency.
- Never enter a code into an alarm panel if you are being overlooked — even from a distance. Ask individuals to
move. - Keep all written codes in a safe place, i.e. locked in the patrol vehicle and not on your person.
- Where available, memorize the distress code to silently activate the alarm if you are being forced to open the property under duress.
- if in a situation where you are forced to open a property under duress, advise the intruders that you need to make scheduled routine contact with the Control Room. During this call use the predetermined code word to alert the Controller of your situation.
- When opening or closing barriers always ensure the barrier is LOCKED in the open or closed position, with a chain and padlock. If for any reason, the barriers cannot be LOCKED in the open or closed position, the mobile driver is to advise Control and is to remain on site until such time the barriers are secured by a locked padlock. Additional combination padlocks and chains are available in the vehicles and the Control Room which are to be used on such an occasion.
Portable Equipment — All Staff
Generally, portable electrical equipment describes appliances that have a cable and a plug and can easily be moved around. About a quarter of all electrical accidents involve portable equipment. The main reasons for this include:
- Frayed cables
- Loose leads
- Defective plugs
- Defective sockets
- Use of unsuitable or defective equipment
- Inadequate maintenance
- Lack of training
In order to minimise the risk posed by portable equipment the following visual checks must be undertaken by the user to identify the following:
- Cable cuts
- Fraying cables
- Damage to cable grips
- Signs of overheating
- Damage to plug casing and pins
Damage to equipment, loose connections, screws missing etc. PAT testing may be undertaken annually or the item replaced with new.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
SOs must refer to Assignment Instructions. A copy of the customer COSHH risk assessments will be appended as required. The main findings of these risk assessments, precautions to be taken and emergency procedures should be made available.
Make yourself aware of the location and type of any hazardous material or substances kept on site. These will range from simple cleaners to the bulk storage of hazardous chemicals used by the customer. Be aware of the risks posed by hazardous Substances that you may be exposed to. Wear any PPE supplied. Safety data sheets should be retained
on site for each hazardous substance present. Know where these are kept by the customer.
Do not use any COSHH item without appropriate training and protective equipment (especially safety glasses) please seek advice from your Health & Safety Advisor. Where possible, patrol areas/routes are to be designed so that they avoid areas where hazardous substances are stored. The control must be contacted immediately in the event of a chemical or substance spill or leak. Ensure that the COSHH guidance in risk assessments is read and understood.