Staff of the NHS, supermarket and logistics workers, the police, volunteers: all are on the frontline of the Coronavirus crisis, striving to keep the nation safe. Security officers are often unsung heroes during this, and other, times of crisis, according to a guarding company MD.
Reshma Sheikh, Managing Director of Octavian UK, says that her firm has seen an unprecedented increase in demand for its services in the last few weeks. The Nottingham-based company, part of the multi-service Octavian Group, has in this time of health and economical crisis sought to source an additional 150 security officers, nationally.
As many buildings are empty of people, that brings the risk of theft, vandalism and trespass. Octavian’s new back-up team will assist its existing 250-strong workforce, whether covering the NHS or supermarkets – where assaults, antisocial behaviour and thefts are likely to be on the rise – and logistics, offices, and construction companies, whose assets may be left unattended.
A security guard may also enforce the Government’s two-metre social distancing rules, defusing conflict situations and liaise with local emergency services. The company adds that it’s adhering to Government guidelines about who is allowed to go out to work. Anyone that shows symptoms will be sent home at once and not allowed back on site for at least 14 days. Meanwhile, Octavian’s management is working remotely and contacting staff via video conferencing.
Reshma Sheikh said: “There is a real need to deter crime, maintain vital services and protect the public during times of crisis. Demand for our services has increased in a short space of time due to the Coronavirus pandemic. This shows just how essential and valuable, security services is during an emergency. All of our new recruits will be subject to temperature testing and social distancing measures, as it has never been more important to follow the Government’s advice, everyone’s safety is paramount at times like these.
“At Octavian we have the utmost respect for the NHS staff, supermarket workers, cleaners, logistics and construction workers building temporary hospitals and all other key workers operating on the frontline of the Coronavirus pandemic, and we are proud of all security teams who are able to protect them, as they carry out their vital work.”
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