Statement from Abbey Petkar, managing director of Magenta Security on inclusion of SIA licenced guards in key worker roles.
We are living in an unprecedented time where life as almost all those alive today know it faces incredible limitations and challenges. Not for generations has there been an opportunity for us to come together and work as one to bring our friends and family safely through such a trying time. Most importantly, we have the power as individuals to help mitigate the challenges caused by COVID-19 – we simply need to stay home.
I am delighted that many SIA licensed guards able to support the country at this time of need and they are being recognised as key workers. However, the definitions are still far too blurry and it is unclear where one guard is considered to be supporting national infrastructure and the operation of critical roles and another not.
Our police and armed forces are likely to come under increased pressure over the coming weeks. Now is an opportunity for our industry to offer more support than ever before. With offices, retailers and food outlets closing, the risks to property and possessions are on the increase. The ability for all SIA guards to go out and do their job is therefore paramount.
SIA Licensed guards are professionals, they often work alone or at a distance from colleagues and are in so many cases therefore not at risk. Wherever possible they should still be encouraged to work and their work should be considered that of a key worker.
If we only allow a minority of SIA licensed guards to be considered key workers then a majority will be forced to stay at home, leaving businesses and people’s livelihoods unprotected. The security industry has a chance now to serve our county like never before and I want us to be given the chance to do so.
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For further information please contact Adam Baggs at Soaring Worldwide – 07970 507151
Magenta Security Services – key facts
Magenta Security was established by Managing Director Abbey Petkar more than 15 years ago.
The company’s head office is in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. The company employs 150 staff.
The company has a substantial portfolio of blue-chip clients across the UK and Northern Europe, from the retail, healthcare and commercial sectors.
Magenta’s client retention remains one of the highest in the security industry with more than 97% of clients remaining with the company for at least three years.
Services include security officers, mobile services, graffiti removal, electronic security and remote monitoring. A partnership with external suppliers allows Magenta Security to provide additional services including housekeeping, Gas Safe engineers and luxury chauffeur driven vehicles with security cleared drivers.
Magenta Security was the first manned guarding company in Europe to be awarded ISO 14001:2004 and since then has gone on to create a business founded on sustainability, with initiatives ranging from the installation of solar panels to operating a paperless office.
As part of his commitment to raising standards in the security industry, Abbey has published a white paper – Managing Your Security - which offers businesses advice on selecting a security provider.
Magenta is registered as an ACS member with the Security Industry Authority (ACS-SIA), British Security Industry Association (BSI), National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and Rail Safety Accreditation Scheme (RSAS).
Adam Baggs
Soaring Worldwide
Tel. 01285 648248
Mob. 07970 507151
Twitter - www.twitter.com/soaringww