Key holding security is a straightforward yet highly effective way to safeguard your business. By entrusting a professional security company with the keys to your property, you ensure rapid and dependable responses to alarms and emergencies at any hour. This service alleviates stress for business owners, offering peace of mind and enhancing overall safety.
In this article, we’ll delve into what key holding security entails, its importance, and the benefits it offers businesses. Whether you operate a small shop or manage a large office building, key holding security could be the reliable solution you need to secure your property.
What Is a Key Holder?
In security terms, a key holder is someone responsible for managing and safeguarding a business’s keys, especially during times when the property is vacant. A key holding service provides secure management of spare keys, ensuring quick access in emergencies, such as lost or stolen keys. It also offers 24/7 assistance for unexpected security issues, creating a dependable safety net for businesses.
Who Can Be a Key Holder?
Anyone meeting specific qualifications can take on the role of a key holder. Requirements include being at least 18 years old, having a valid SIA license, and passing background checks, including a criminal record review. While key holders focus primarily on managing access and responding to alarms, those wishing to take on more advanced security responsibilities need additional SIA training to qualify as security key holders. This distinction emphasizes the difference between basic key management and comprehensive security services.
What Is a Key Holding Licence?
A key holding licence is issued by the SIA (Security Industry Authority) for professionals involved in key management and security work. This front-line licence, which costs £184, is a basic requirement for those performing key holding roles. While no specific training is mandatory to obtain this licence, holding it ensures compliance with industry standards.
Key Holding Security Jobs
Key holding often intersects with other security roles, creating diverse job opportunities. Professionals in this field may also perform duties such as:
- Security Concierge: Monitoring CCTV, coordinating with security teams, and responding to incidents.
- Mobile Patrol Officer: Handling on-site emergencies, including alarm responses and intruder incidents, often requiring quick travel by motorbike or car.
- Security Manager: Overseeing security teams and ensuring high standards of service.
Responsibilities of a Security Key Holder
A security key holder’s role is broader than that of a regular key holder, focusing heavily on safeguarding the premises. Core duties include:
- Acting as the primary contact for alarm responses.
- Ensuring the business is securely opened and closed daily.
- Managing access control systems.
- Reporting security breaches or suspicious activities.
- Conducting regular patrols to maintain smooth operations.
- Upholding the terms outlined in the key holder agreement.
What Is a Key Holder Agreement?
A key holder agreement is a formal document outlining the responsibilities of the key holder and the procedures to follow in the event of lost or misused keys. This agreement helps protect a business’s assets and ensures compliance with established security protocols. By defining expectations, it maintains the integrity of the premises and prevents potential security risks.
How Much Do Key Holders Earn?
Salaries in key holding services depend on factors like experience and job scope. According to Talent entry-level roles typically start at around £22,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn up to £31,000 annually. On average, key holders in the UK earn approximately £24,000 per year.
What’s Included in a Key Holding Service?
Key holding services vary by provider, but most include the following:
- Alarm Response: Trained professionals respond immediately to triggered alarms, resolving technical issues, handling false alarms, and securing the property.
- Intruder Handling: Experts manage intruder incidents, securing the site until law enforcement arrives, and providing detailed reports for legal or insurance purposes.
- Vacant Property Checks: Regular inspections of unoccupied properties to prevent vandalism, trespassing, and maintenance issues, protecting the property’s value.
Cost of Key Holding Services
The cost of key holding services depends on factors such as:
- Assets: Businesses with high-value assets may require advanced security measures, increasing costs.
- Location: Properties in high-crime areas often face higher security costs compared to those in quieter areas.
- Facility Type: Complex layouts or specialized security needs, such as warehouses or data centers, may require more resources, raising costs.
Despite these variables, pricing is tailored to each business’s unique needs, ensuring a customized security solution.
Benefits of Key Holding Services
Key holding security provides numerous advantages for businesses, including:
- Reduced Responsibilities: Business owners are relieved from responding to alarms, avoiding potential risks and disruptions.
- Enhanced Security Protocols: Professional key holders enforce strict security measures, ensuring the premises are always protected.
- 24/7 Support: Unlike relying on employees or family members, professional services guarantee around-the-clock availability, providing quick and reliable responses.
So, What Is Key Holding?
Key holding security services are an essential investment for businesses seeking reliable protection. With trained professionals managing access and responding to alarms, business owners can focus on their operations without worrying about security issues. It’s a practical solution that safeguards assets and provides peace of mind.
If you’re looking for a dependable key holding service, National Workforce Security Guarding offers tailored solutions to meet your business’s specific needs. Contact Us today to learn how we can help secure your property.