On the mark: M&S works with FOUR Security Consultants to upgrade CCTV
Retailer Marks and Spencer has upgraded to an effective and efficient CCTV system that adheres to the surveillance camera code of practice.
Marks and Spencer's distribution centre CCTV required upgrading.
Marks and Spencer needed to upgrade their CCTV system at their major distribution centre in Bradford. They wanted a scheme that was effective, efficient and in line with the 12 guiding principles in the surveillance camera code of practice (PDF, 661 KB).
Security is always a key concern for us but we also want schemes that are of high compliance standards in terms of legislation and processes. This means we end up with a cost effective and efficient CCTV system that is value for money
Said Nick Russell, the Marks and Spencer build project manager.
Get the requirements right
It’s important that before a new system is installed that every stage of development is thought through and processed into an effective CCTV operational requirement report otherwise it will present difficulties later on in the installation. Marks and Spencer appointed FOUR Security Consultants to help guide them through the stages from start to finish and draw up the operational requirement report for the scheme.
Brendan McGarrity, a director at FOUR Security Consultants, explains their approach:
We bring together the key people at an early stage of the design. This means we design a system that supports Marks and Spencer’s operational delivery and data compliance requirements
Bringing all of the parties together provides a great opportunity to raise everyone’s awareness of the standards and legislation required to operate a CCTV system that is technically compliant and meets CCTV competency standards.
Many organisations aren’t aware of their legal responsibilities around the use of CCTV. Our approach is to raise awareness of the surveillance camera code of practice and the 12 guiding principles. We can help give advice to ensure suitable rules, policies and procedures are established to govern and oversee the operation of the CCTV system. Our experience is that a compliant system is also an effective and efficient system.
Read more information on the surveillance camera code of practice.