With the rise of crime, private security companies have witnessed a demand for their services.
Private residences, learning institutions, companies, small and medium businesses, estates, and tenants in apartment buildings have opted for these firms which act as alternatives for the police.
In an interview with kenyagist.com, Brian Muriuki, security expert elaborated on what to consider when seeking the services of private security companies.
Response time
With the Kenyan police preoccupied with providing security to all Kenyans, the response time to crime is thus low. Private security companies will vary in response time based on the available resources.
“The consumer should identify the locations of the private security company.
“One will notice that they are strategically positioned near volatile busy places for swift responses in emergencies,†Muriuki stated
Licensed and insured
All private security companies are expected to abide by the Private Security Regulatory Act.2016 which provides the requirements for security personnel and licensing of the company.
“The private security companies are regulated by the Kenya Private Security Regulatory Authority. The law also mandates the inspections of the registration compliance and provides regulations when it comes to the power of arrest, search and confiscation of identification documents.â€Muriuki elaborated.
Brand and Reputation
There are private security companies that have the reputation of being customer-centric in their service delivery.
“There are private companies that have been in the industry for years and have gained the trust of their consumers.
“Their market share of private security has increased based on their international presence and local referrals,†he stated
Variety of services
A majority of private security companies offer different services based on how much the consumer is willing to pay.
“The ability of private security to satisfy the consumer is limited by his resources. An ideal private security company offers canine security, guarding services, facilities management. Some VIP services include cash management services and global travel risk assessments.†he remarked.
Trained personnel
Private security companies will offer training services to their personnel who must be registered.
“Private security companies will have physical requirements when recruiting and offering training at accredited facilities in accordance with the Private Security Regulatory Act.2016,” Muriuki stated
Tech security systems
Private security companies are costly to most individuals, businesses and customers opt to seek security systems built by these firms rather than hire their personnel.
“Some members of the public are exclusively interested in security systems and installation services. They buy burglar alarms, door entry systems, CCTV systems, and fire alarms.†he clarified.
Source: KENYAGIST.COM
