Jamie Allam

The UK Government has set out an ambitious ten-point plan, known as the green industrial revolution, with an aim “to forge ahead with eradicating its contribution to climate change by 2050.” This makes our government the first major economy to embrace such a legal obligation. Green recovery Acknowledging climate change and meeting net-zero is a demanding challenge especially for those affected by the pandemic. But the UK Government, with the launch of its aspiring strategy, is investing everything in its power to promote a ‘green recovery.’ Here, Reece Paprotny, Commercial Manager and Sustainability Champion at Amthal, highlights how the fire and security industry has an opportunity to use the current recovery period to explore its own sustainable journey and embrace the significance of environment, economic and social collaboration, transparency, and accountability. Employing sustainable technologies Pressure is mounting on construction to find ways to reduce emissions and help meet net-zero targets The perception is that COVID-19 presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-write the existing rulebook. This is riding on the significance of changing public support for more environmentally friendly living opportunities, with associated cost savings, efficiencies, and cleaner industries. Innovative sustainable technologies are the key to kickstart this route to success.  Nowhere can this be seen more than in the built environment, which currently contributes to 40% of the UK's carbon footprint. Pressure is mounting on construction to find ways to reduce emissions and help meet net-zero targets. This is through the entire life cycle of a building, to reduce their impact on the environment from planning stages, through build and demolition. Building the right environment By creating the right policy environment, incentives for innovation and infrastructure, the Government can encourage companies to seize the sustainable opportunities of new technologies and value chains linked to green sectors. They can accelerate the shift of current carbon-intensive economic and industrial structures onto greener trajectories, enabling the UK to meet global climate and development goals under the Paris Agreement on climate change and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Transparent working practices Each industry sector is expected to engage and pledge its support to achieve the significant deadlines. Every company can make a difference, even with small steps towards a sustainable future. So while elements such as safety and security represent just one component of building the right sustainable environment, it paves the way to opening up our sector to greater efficiencies, transparent working practices, and encourages collaborative use of resources. Sustainability in security The security sector has a significant opportunity to incorporate ‘going green’ into its practices In fact, the security sector has a significant opportunity to incorporate ‘going green’ into their processes, and practices. This is right from product lifecycles to more environmentally friendly work practices when it comes to maintenance and monitoring services. When integrating environmentally friendly practices, starts with the manufacturing and production of the wide variety of systems in operation for the security sector. And some certifications and guidelines can be achieved, such as the ISO 14000 which looks into eliminating hazardous materials being used which in turn will reduce carbon footprint.  Upgrading supply chain process Observing the complete supply chain and working with partners to reduce unnecessary travel, shipments, and transportation of products, can all contribute and create sustainable processes.  In the maintenance and monitoring of products, it is essential installers and security specialists consider their own environmental impacts. Simple changes such as switching company vehicles to electric options for site visits can make a significant difference to climate change and improving air quality. Presenting sustainable ways of disposing of products at the end of their natural lifecycle is key to change in our sector. This is especially in the security industry where many customers will need a complete overhaul of outdated solutions or need systems upgrading due to changing threat levels. Sustainable evolution Progress is being made, specifically in the fire and security industry, in its sustainable evolution. Businesses are trying to develop a reputation for “sustainability” or “good corporate citizenship.” And it has gone well beyond the theory to the practical, where companies recognize activities have an impact on the environment and are also reviewing the social and economic influences. Three pillars of sustainability In a recent interview, Inge Huijbrechts, the Global Senior Vice President for safety and security and Responsible Business at Radisson Hotel Groups sees her vision to combine safety, security, and sustainability. Inge focuses on three pillars, namely, Think People, Think Community, and Think Planet. Think People means that we “always care for the people in our hotels and our supply chain.” So, in outwards communications, safety and security were always part of the Think People focus area. Think Community is caring and contributing in a meaningful way to communities where we operate. Finally, Think Planet makes sure that “our footprint on the environment is as light as it can be in terms of energy, water, waste, and carbon, and making sure that we incorporate sustainability into our value proposition.” Moving forward Apprenticeship schemes are integral to ‘think people’ and have a role to play in the social impact on the security industry There are immediate actions that can be taken by companies in the security industry to support sustainable development, working right from within a company to supporting industry-wide initiatives. From a social perspective, at a foundation level, “Think People’ can see the Living Wage Foundation as an example of a commitment to a team.  This is for businesses that choose to go further and pay a real Living wage based on the cost of living, not just the Government minimum. Apprenticeship schemes are also integral to ‘think people’ and have a pivotal role to play on the social impact on the security industry.  It addresses the sector-wide issue of finding employees with the right mix of skills to collaborate and meet discerning consumer demands for increasingly smart security solutions for homes and businesses. Impact of the full lifecycle of products From an environmental view, or ‘think planet,’ we need to collectively look at all elements of our industry, with a desire to analyze the impact of ingredients used, supply chain, or manufacturing alone, and also consider the full lifecycle of our selected products from creation to end of life. As Jamie Allam, CEO Amthal summarises, “This is a long-term, sustainable investment in our people, our products, and our business based on our values.” “When put together, a social team which feels empowers and operates in environmental optimum working conditions is in a position to provide a great experience to our customers, creating an economic positive difference. It forms the basis of a sustainable sector vision for the security industry-wide to adopt.” Taking action Amthal is taking action based on the ready-made universally agreed UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Also known as Global Goals, these are at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member states. This agenda is a plan of action for people, the planet, and prosperity. By being an early adopter, we believe we can engage with customers, partners, and suppliers on these issues and generate opportunities to innovate for mutual and industry sector benefit. Together, we can contribute to building a more sustainable security sector and future, and contribute to the UK Government’s green industrial revolution.

Amthal is working in partnership with Frank Cooper & Son, across a number of school security program of works, to ensure perimeter protection is achieved to exceed Ofsted standards. With security always being a vital ingredient for any school or college in protecting its students, staff and visitors, the additional inclusion into Ofsted inspections is leading many schools to review current standards. Says Simon Cooper of Frank Cooper & Son: “On a basic level, Ofsted inspectors need a school to demonstrate it has taken reasonable steps to ensure pupils are safe on the school site. This is right from the site boundaries to monitoring visitors or volunteers as well as having adequate security arrangements for the grounds and school buildings.” Maintenance and monitoring services “We have worked with Amthal for many years focusing on supporting schools to help, support and advice on the best security strategies to ensure Ofsted expectations are achieved. And in doing so, provide vital assurances that school security does not need to feel prison-like. Bespoke, often colorful perimeter solutions can be created to complement and protect our essential learning environments.” Access control solutions and CCTV can also be analyzed to direct those entering and exiting a school Amthal operates with Frank Cooper & Son right from the initial design process through to installation, working around learning timetables to ensure minimal disruption to school timetables, and following up with essential maintenance and monitoring services. Access control solutions and CCTV can also be analyzed to direct those entering and exiting a school and monitor pedestrian movement more efficiently. This can reduce the risk of crime in schools. Healthy learning environment Jamie Allam, CEO of Amthal Fire and Security adds: “School grounds protected by secure perimeters and good access control surveillance systems are the foundation of a healthy learning environment, supported by alertness and a coherent awareness of risk management.” “It’s why we choose to work in partnership with specialists such as Frank Cooper & Son, to ensure schools not only pass Ofsted with flying colors, but also offers a well-maintained system that complies with building safety regulations. All this brought together enables a school to honor its duty of care to provide peace of mind for its staff, pupils, parents and visitors on an ongoing basis.”

Following on from the UK Government’s announcement of additional support for apprenticeship schemes, CEO Amthal Fire & Security, Jamie Allam shows the vital role Apprentices have played, and how their employment continues to be a key strategy to the company’s success. "Over 700,000 people are leaving education this year and many more are just starting out in their careers. Coronavirus has hit them hard. We cannot lose this generation." Fire and security industry This was the outlook of the Chancellor Rishi Sunak as he delivered his Summer Statement and offered employers a significant financial incentive for hiring apprentices over the next six months. Amthal has always been a big supporter of Apprentices as a way to create a more open business environment. Apprentices gave the company a new dimension to hone in skills and be able to adapt to new innovations Since the company started their apprentice program over 15 years ago, they have employed, retained (and promoted) the majority of their Apprentices, who have been supervised by the company’s senior team, and now even form part of their management structure, because the company values the opportunity to encourage job-specific skills to achieve more of their customer demands, quickly and efficiently. And they would encourage others in the fire and security industry to consider the same outlook. Smart security technologies Apprentices for Amthal, have proven through the years, incremental to solving issues such as the skills shortage in the industry. People have no long-term experience and there has been a lack of engineers understanding the specific disciplines of the industry, instead being trained as ‘multi-disciplined’ which often does not suit the intricacy of design in security and fire safety. Apprentices gave the company a new dimension to hone in skills and be able to adapt to new innovations, and embrace smart security technologies. In fire safety, there is an essential way Apprentices can rise to a challenge and requirement for a clear understanding to help combat the findings such as those of Dame Judith Hackitt, which highlighted the shortcomings in the wider fire and security industries following the Grenfell Tower fire. Developing technical competence The whole of the industry needs to work together to correct years of training neglect by proving and developing the technical competence held by its existing operatives, so they can work on making such tragedies a thing of the past. New apprentices, with an ambition to learn a trade, can embrace the opportunity for change. The company has had to quickly understand modern methods of communication and embrace new technologies The essential requirements of key workers through lockdown to keep the UK safe and ‘protect what’s precious’ has filtered into the ‘new normal’ as companies and hospitality industries looked to achieve Government mandates on controlling the Coronavirus. Together, the company has had to quickly understand modern methods of communication and embrace the new technologies available quickly and efficiently. Body temperature monitoring systems Again, throughout this pandemic, they joined the country in learning new ways to communicate with their teams, embracing performance management and employee engagement technology that helped them grow stronger. The industry has had to meet the incredible uptake in demands for people counting and access control body temperature monitoring systems, together with latest thermal camera technology. Apprentices build on the creation of the positive business culture, upon which all their sustainable growth resides. Amthal has three Apprentices on their engineering team currently, one who starts college in September. They are looking for an additional Apprentice to support their growth in Building, Block Management and the facilities management industry. And in addition, another Apprentice will support their team in Finance. Fire safety Apprenticeships are an excellent way to get into a wide range of rewarding and valuable careers" In summary, the Government’s funding is limited and inevitably, now is the time for the fire safety and security industry to act before the opportunity is expired. For Amthal, the new generation and the apprentice program, allows each individual to settle into their defined role, learn their skills and take responsibility with their dedicated line manager for their own growth. In the company’s experience, they would agree with Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan who said: “Apprenticeships are an excellent way to get into a wide range of rewarding and valuable careers.” Technical challenges Amthal has, from early on in their business life, certainly reaped the benefits of introducing Apprentices to their company. And if the COVID-19 pandemic has taught them anything, it’s that future planning is not a luxury, but a necessity to be able to take on change and the technical challenges that their industry faces. For Amthal, while they may not have been able to celebrate their 20th anniversary as the company had intended, they look forward to their 25th and 30th with the same passion and drive as they do now, with Apprentices forming an essential part of the company’s team, product and service development.

With the introduction of the much publicised 5G networks, alongside the evolution of live chat facilities impacting on the way people stay connected, there is extra pressure to deliver on extra speed and bandwidth, faster operating and more powerful mobiles to enable apps to work much harder and video to become the cornerstone of security. CSL and Amthal, who have worked in partnership for 15 years, are operating together for customers to ensure the safe delivery of advanced routers, alarms and data embracing all available signaling technologies. Remote monitoring services through mobile technology Says Dave Willetts, CSL Head of Key Accounts: “Technology and the way we connect is evolving faster than ever and understanding the key trends, whilestaying at the forefront of its impact on system design, is critical to all our success, especially in the fire and security sector." “Working closely and building relationships with customers such as Amthal is vital. And this is not in a supply chain, but in true partnership. We have both seen significant business growth, operating through some extraordinary circumstances, not least the current pandemic. Through delivering on tailored customer requirements, we can continue to upgrade systems to ensure connectivity standards remain high.” Amthal operates with CSL to ensure connectivity for key CCTV and alarm signaling, allowing for remote upgrade and maintenance of installed products and services. The fire and security specialist is now looking to upgrade with CSL to adopt more live functionality that allows remote monitoring services through smart mobile app technology. Greater intelligence and faster response systems Jamie Allam, CEO Amthal Fire and Security adds: “For fire and security, we are just on the cusp of seeing the potential of technological advancements and ability to create greater intelligence, faster response systems, visual insights and dedicated data." “And while the lockdown period has halted many sector operations, as critical workers, it is our duty to continue our operations to keep buildings safe and secure. By working closely with trusted partners as CSL Group, we can bring these ideals together and ensure more powerful devices can be connected to one another, maintained and monitored remotely and efficiently for the benefit of customers across the UK.” Intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire and security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

Specialists in advanced electronic fire and security solutions, Amthal has launched an interactive new website, providing easy access to the very latest smart solutions and industry news. Desktop to mobile experience The fully responsive website, providing a continuous desktop to mobile experience, features fresh new-look sections dedicated to latest product and service updates for professionals seeking guidance, alongside up to date advice for homeowners. The opportunity to monitor latest relevant fire and security videos and news will also be available The opportunity to monitor latest relevant fire and security videos and news will also be available and the website will now flow seamlessly with Amthal’s dedicated social media channels. Amthal products and service solutions Says Jamie Allam, Amthal Commercial Director, “With the growing reliance on mobile as a first port of call, alongside use of social media for recommendations, we have updated our website to ensure visitors, whether commercial or residential, can find information on Amthal’s full range of products and service solutions." He adds, “We love the fresh new look and feel of the site, especially the blog and video sections which will be regularly updated to ensure our visitors have up to date smart fire and security advice available in one place. The new site is another piece in the jigsaw of our marketing strategy and aligns our digital platform much more closely to our brand and future offerings.” Market and service capability Amthal's new website will be updated on a regular basis with market and service capability, news and case study updates together with team milestones.

Amthal Fire & Security has installed a bespoke designed Keyzapp management system at its head offices, to ensure the safekeeping and accountability of client keys at all times. Electronic Fire and security company Amthal required a system to improve key management processes, especially as the business has seen significant growth with an increased number of customer keys being kept on site for property protection, maintenance and monitoring services. Audit control capability for key transactions Keyzapp was selected due to its flexible design. This enabled Amthal to create a system that was easy for authorised engineers to operate, whilst management could rely on audit control capability for all key transactions, without the need for a dedicated member of staff 24/7 manually issuing and recording them. It’s really automated our complete process and has proven to save the engineering team valuable time and resource" Says Simon Kendall, Amthal Supply Chain Leader: “Amthal has a growing network of dedicated engineers that work across the country, with varying access requirements for customer’s keys that are all kept at Amthal offices. Completing manual audits for keys taken had become increasingly time consuming to ensure awareness of allocations and traceability. “The implementation of Keyzapp’s system has made such a difference. It’s really automated our complete process and has proven to save the engineering team valuable time and resource, which they can dedicate to better serving our customers. It runs itself in the background and if there is an issue, it can be resolved quickly and efficiently.” Control to key access with smart credentials Keyzapp’s simple management solutions are designed using latest technology to decrease downtime and improve work efficiencies. The ability to further add control to key access with smart credentials and audit capability ensures full visibility of keys at any time. Tim Hill, Keyzapp Director added: “What Amthal demonstrates is the importance of attention to key control. We worked with the team to tailor our system around the business requirements for asset management, including allowing 24 / 7 access with no need for dedicated staff issuing keys. “The management side has also been scaled around ensuring instant traceability to ensure growing number of keys held on site are accounted for at all times. It’s great to see it’s made such a positive impact on a leading fire and security specialist, who prides itself on ‘protecting what’s precious,’ which includes its key customer assets!” Traceability and visibility for valuable equipment Our engineers find it simple to use, and we’ve even recorded improved site attendance times" So impressed with Keyzapp, Amthal is now working on a bespoke system to manage the specialist loan equipment being booked in and out of its office stores and warehouse, to reflect the same level of traceability and visibility for valuable equipment. Jamie Allam, Commercial Director Amthal Fire & Security concluded: “Keyzapp had an instant impact on the whole team, with improved time and operational savings. Our engineers find it simple to use, and we’ve even recorded improved site attendance times. Plus the management capability is great from our perspective to help towards the efficient, operational running of our business.” User needs for security safety and convenience Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

Amthal partners with CAME BPT on a number of prestigious projects to create bespoke door entry systems that operate using integrated smart technology for the benefit of residents across the UK. Renowned intercom specialists CAME BPT has continued to specify use of Amthal, operating with real estate consultants to design and integrate door entry solutions in line with high-end specification. Specialist networked systems This minimizes the supply chain and ensures a more efficient works program from start to finish" CAME BPT and Amthal have worked together from initial design and specification stages to create specialist networked systems, incorporating high-end smart technology entrance panels and video hands free intercom handsets. Says Steve Bond, Installer East Sales Manager at CAME BPT UK: “Amthal as an all-encompassing fire and security specialist, collaborates well with our team to deliver on smart technology, created and installed to achieve exact customer expectations. The real professionalism is shown in Amthal’s ability to partner with us right from the initial design process, through planned installation to maintenance and monitoring services. To the customer, this minimizes the supply chain and ensures a more efficient works program from start to finish, and ongoing!” Smart video control Most recently, Amthal and CAME BPT have collaborated to upgrade smart video control at the prestigious Arundel Square development. Based in the heart of Islington, Arundel Square has been designed in symmetry of the surrounding prominent Victorian terraces. Run by a Resident’s Management Company (RMC,) it presents studios 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with full concierge services, overlooking a professionally landscaped vista of an established garden square. With every finishing detail considered in line with the sensitive design, a necessary upgrade to its video intercom system was extensively planned with a bespoke solution, created by CAME BPT in partnership with Amthal to complete the integrated installation. Jamie Allam, Amthal Commercial Director concluded: “The work at Arundel Square is testament to our close working relationship with CAME BPT, whereby we are confident in their products and know we can operate together well to ensure a smooth delivery with minimal disruption to those involved.” Remote monitoring Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience “By being involved so early on, we are able to understand and make recommendations on the right approach, when it comes to security design and installation without compromising on style or cutting-edge technology. The result is the perfect blend of smart security, to add finishing touches to any development and guarantee a very professional job all round.” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, fire, access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security are accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE).

Amthal has been awarded a new support contract with global technology leaders Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V, to upgrade and maintain security solutions at its UK Head Office, and across its regional UK offices. As one of the world’s leading names in the manufacture and sales of electrical products and systems, Mitsubishi Electric has eight regional offices, including its UK Head Office in Hatfield, supporting over 700 staff members. New Contract Details The new contract with Amthal covers the provision of support and maintenance across each of Mitsubishi Electric’s sites, to ensure security arrangements, including CCTV, intruder alarm and access control, are maintained to the highest level and upgraded quickly where required. Karen Kelsall, Mitsubishi Electric Business Services Team - Facilities Coordinator said, "Each of our UK office locations has its own security arrangements that must be maintained on a regular basis.  We needed to source a reliable company that could not only achieve this requirement but also ensure we continue to offer our staff and visitors complete peace of mind at their place of work. Amthal proved themselves even before the contract was signed, responding to several different site requests quickly, with true technical capability and professionalism.  Plus, being a local company to our head offices makes a difference to ensuring an efficient and sustainable supplier service that we look forward to building." Highest Levels Of Operational Excellence This contract award is extremely significant for Amthal, not only to be associated with such a global brand, but also to demonstrate our commitment to our customers" Jamie Allam, Commercial Director Amthal Fire & Security added, "This contract award is extremely significant for Amthal, not only to be associated with such a global brand, but also to demonstrate our commitment to our customers, both new and existing the team’s knowledge, experience and expertise together with an ability to react quickly and get the job done, contributed to our appointment. And as per our core mission, vision and values, that run through everything we do, we will continue to work in partnership with Mitsubishi Electric to deliver the highest levels of operational excellence and continuity of service, both on a local basis to its main offices and regionally, across all sites." Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end-user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire and security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems.  Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

Amthal has worked closely with Alfresco Living to design and install fire and security solutions for its chic new showroom and present ultimate protection for staff, visitors and premium products in storage. Hertfordshire-based Alfresco Living specializes in the supply and installation of superior outdoor products for homeowners to maximize usage of their garden, terrace or patio space.  Making a significant investment in a new showroom, Alfresco Living decided upon Amthal as its fire and security partner of choice, working in partnership to create a bespoke solution without impacting on the style and feel of the new facility’s design.  Adam Rayner, Director at Alfresco Living commented “The new showroom is the ideal place to present product examples from our high-end product range. We wanted to create an open and welcoming environment, but at the same time we were very conscious to ensure the right security was in place to protect against risk of vandalism or theft.” The result is a safe and secure environment for visitors to relax and experience the high-end products on offer”  Intruder Alarm System “Amthal, a local company, came highly recommended and made an instant impression. The team worked closely with us and offered professional advice throughout, from initial design to the organization of a smooth installation of the bespoke intruder alarm system. They also ensured we achieved the necessary requirements for fire safety,” Adam further stated. Jamie Allam, Commercial Director, Amthal Fire & Security added “What our work with Alfresco Living demonstrates is our preferred approach to working with clients, in true partnership style. This is right from the beginning of a project, so we can fully understand the objectives when it comes to fire and security.” “By doing so, we can not only provide bespoke solutions that offer the necessary level of protection, but also ensure any systems installed, operate to blend with its surroundings and in this case, not impact on the intended ambience of the showroom creation. The result is a safe and secure environment for visitors to relax and experience the high-end products on offer.”  Accreditation For Security Service Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB), United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE).

The white paper looks at issues faced by commercial owners, including employee theft, property and desperation crime Amthal Fire & Security has launched a new downloadable white paper considering fire and security measures in commercial applications. The white paper, focussed on security in commercial applications, looks at issues faced by commercial owners, including employee theft, property and desperation crime, together with the emerging issues surrounding cybercrime threats that have only recently entered police crime statistics. Also investigated in the discussion document are the fire and security implications of the changing workplace practices, including the natural encouragement of flexible working and rapid adoption of Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD.) Says Jamie Allam, Commercial Director of Amthal Fire & Security and author of the white paper: “Through the evolution of technology, today’s workplace has evolved from people sitting in allocated desks through structured hours to many companies adopting an agile approach to how their workforce operates. “This together with the rapid adoption of Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD) means staff are entering and exiting buildings on a much more fluid basis, with personal valuable equipment – all of which has serious implications for the fire and security requirements to protect people, premises and assets on site. “In this white paper, we have attempted not only to raise awareness of these real issues, but also tie in current crime statistic concerns. Our aim is to show how security and facilities officers can navigate an effective way forward, to provide the necessary fire safety and security measures in a commercial environment. "Our aim is to show how security and facilities officers can navigate an effective way forward, to provide the necessary fire safety and security measures in a commercial environment", says Jamie Allam, Commercial Director, Amthal Fire & Security “While we hope this white paper offers necessary guidance and support, we also realize we are opening the discussion on what is really a very complex and challenging debate.”  “We look forward to opinions, experience and comments so that together with our supply chain partners we can continue to deliver fire and security solutions that safeguard the future of commercial buildings.” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems.  Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.) This discussion paper, is now available to download, and has been created to open up the conversation on this important topic.

The infographic was developed to portray company's professional milestones Amthal is celebrating its 15th birthday with the launch of a fun filled downloadable infographic showcasing its evolving fast-growing journey towards becoming a fire and security specialist. Launched in 2000, by close friends John Allam and Paul Rosenthal, Amthal now has over 40 members in the team and operates on a nationwide basis providing installation maintenance and monitoring services across all residential, commercial and public sectors. In 2008, Jamie Allam joined the management team to become Commercial Director and created the structure to drive an ambitious five-year growth plan incorporating all aspects of the business, from operations, through sales and commercial targets. Current Three-year Strategic Plan The plan currently stands at sales of £5 million following completion of the current three-year strategic plan Says Jamie: “Since we opened our doors in 2000, the economy and the challenges our clients face have evolved dramatically and our business has always taken a proactive approach to adaption. Over the past five years we have undergone our own evolution, shifting our focus to a total solution provider for clients to deliver full fire and security services. “We are excited to reach our 15th anniversary and wanted to celebrate with our staff and clients, to say thank you for their support and build on our strong track record of success. The infographic was really developed to portray our professional milestones but also show the fun we have had on our journey – who knew we would be a matchmaking service along the way!” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

The animation demonstrates how the fire and security specialist works from initial design to installation Amthal Fire & Security has unveiled a new animation to showcase its ability to work closely with end users and Police across different sectors to ‘protect what’s precious’ to clients. Promoting "Protect What’s Precious" Now available to view on Amthal’s website and social media channels, the animation demonstrates how the fire and security specialist works from initial design concepts through installation to monitoring across a range of sectors including commercial, education and residential. Also included in the animation is insight into how Amthal Fire & Security meets latest standards and regulations on fire, safety and security for the benefit of public and private sector clients. Says Jamie Allam, Commercial Director of Amthal Fire & Security: “Visual content has undoubtedly become an integral part of business Internet users' online experience. The key to success is creating high quality relevant information, that our audience wants to view and share with their network. Working Wth Different Sectors “We have invested in this animation to illustrate our ability to accommodate any sector through intruder, fire, access control, door entry and CCTV. Plus, we hope it’s seen as adding a fun factor to our approach, as we really do strive to ‘protect what’s precious’ to our customers, new and existing!”  Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems.   Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

The school needed to upgrade all security and fire safety measures to ensure the safety of all who attend Verulam School has used Amthal Fire & Security to upgrade the security and fire safety measures across the school for the benefit of staff, pupils and visitors. Based in St Albans, Verulam School is a secondary school for boys with academy status. The specialist comprehensive school, which is larger than average for a secondary site, needed to upgrade all security and fire safety measures in line with latest fire regulations, to safeguard the school and ensure the safety of all who attend. Amthal School Survey The school consulted with Amthal Fire & Security to ensure a complete site survey was conducted that looked at all aspects of safety and security, following which a works program was established to install new solutions where necessary, working around dedicated learning timetables. Says Paul Hammond, Site Manager at Verulam School: “With the academy status of the school, we needed to ensure the security and fire safety measures on site could accommodate not only the school use, but also the extra-curricular activity and increasingly wider variety of visitors utilizing our premises. “Amthal Fire & Security partnered with us right from the initial design process of the security and fire safety requirements through to creating a continuous program of works planned around our budget, resource allocation and timeframes. In a competitive market, I was very lucky to find a company that truly put the school and my own thoughts first, listened to what I wanted and continue to deliver exactly what they said they would. "What our work with Verulam School demonstrates is the attention to detail, in working closely with the site management team" Incorporating State Of The Art Security & Fire Solutions The electronic security solution specified, incorporated state of the art IP CCTV together with access control and automatic fire detection systems, all integrated into existing platforms. Most recently, Amthal Fire & Security has installed a new entry system for the school. Amthal Fire & Security, Commercial Director Comments Jamie Allam, Commercial Director of Amthal Fire & Security added: “The Department for Education is faced with an estimated budget shortfall of £600 million in 2015-16, according to the Association of Colleges. Despite these financial constraints, it is essential that the safety and security of students, staff and the public is not compromised. “What our work with Verulam School demonstrates is the attention to detail, in working closely with the site management team to create an upgrade program that is scaleable to fit within the budget, timescales and resource available, especially careful not to disturb learning timetables. This way more cost effective measures can be taken provide the necessary peace of mind for staff, pupils and visitors at all times.” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE).

Amthal ensured complete perimeter security and a smooth operating system throughout the Academy Amthal Fire & Security has upgraded the fire and security measures at The Marlborough Science Academy to feature high performance IP CCTV, access control and automatic fire detection systems to provide ultimate peace of mind for staff, pupils and visitors. The Marlborough Science Academy, situated in St Albans, is a specialist science secondary school and sixth form, educating approximately 1,200 students and employing over 80 staff. The school is increasingly being used by the local community out of school hours and so the site required a general upgrade to its security and fire detection systems. Amthal Fire & Security worked closely with the Estates Management team to provide a comprehensive security overview and offered a number of innovative ideas to ensure complete perimeter security and a smooth operating system throughout the Academy. The electronic security solution specified, incorporated state of the art IP CCTV together with access control and automatic fire detection systems, all integrated into existing platforms. The structure was installed in just three weeks to ensure minimal disruption to learning timetables. Says Chris Paice, Estates Manager at The Marlborough Science Academy: “The school is committed to offering staff, students and the wider local community a vibrant, happy and nurturing learning environment. So that we can do this as safely as possible, we ensure the fire and security systems, right from the entrance to the school and throughout the site, are all maintained to a high level. “Amthal Fire & Security has consistently been highly professional and knowledgeable, going above and beyond the call of duty to provide a complete solution that was even installed at a much faster rate than we had scheduled. We would not hesitate to recommend Amthal Fire & Security to any educational facility looking for guidance and expertise on all aspects of site security.” Jamie Allam, Commercial Director of Amthal Fire & Security added: “The Government’s continued pledge towards the extended schools agenda means educational premises operate today on a much more ‘open’ nature with either full public access or permitted group access increasingly required. "We would not hesitate to recommend Amthal Fire & Security to any educational facility" “This places added pressures on fire and security measures to ensure even out of traditional school hours, the site is carefully monitored. Here, The Marlborough Science Academy has shown how working with a trusted brand as Amthal Fire & Security right from security specification throughout the process, can ensure a bespoke security system is created to operate with existing site technologies to keep disruption, cost and install times to a minimum.” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE).

Amthal Fire & Security is able to offer guidance to schools on how to choose the right solutions to create safe environments The leading security specialist based in St Albans is working with leading education publications and using online and social media resources to highlight issues in school security as well as showcasing latest applications. Says Jamie Allam, Commercial Director at Amthal Fire & Security: “With school safety concerns intensifying, coupled with schools now becoming open longer for the local community, those responsible for school buildings all have roles to play in the implementation of an effective, round the clock, school security strategy. “Amthal Fire & Security is able to offer guidance to schools on how to optimize budgets and choose the right solutions to create safe environments, and present simple and cost effective, intelligent ways of upgrading the controllability and security level of any premises. This way, we can all stay top of the class when it comes to school security!” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, maintenance and monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions; including intruder, fire, access and CCTV solutions. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

Amthal has developed a total security solution, implementing intruder alarms, CCTV and access control Amthal Fire & Security has secured the tender for Notting Hill Housing Group to provide total electronic security solutions and maintenance across the social enterprise’s three office locations in London. Notting Hill Housing Group is a leading London housing association and one of the most innovative in the UK, dedicated to creating 21st century neighbourhoods for the capital. Notting Hill Housing Group has three offices across London, including King’s Cross, Hammersmith and Vauxhall. All three sites require high quality protection for all staff on site, while not compromising on the welcoming environment for visitors. Across the multiple locations and having worked closely with the site management team for over a 10 year period, Amthal Fire & Security has developed a total electronic security solution, implementing state of the art intruder alarms, CCTV, access control and innovative automated door systems as and where required. Following the first tender issued from the Housing Group, Amthal Fire & Security is now also responsible for security maintenance across the three sites. Says Paul Atkinson, Office Services Manager at Notting Hill Housing Group: “Balancing the creation of a welcoming environment with ensuring site security is a constant challenge. This is where working with a trusted partner as Amthal Fire & Security, who has been there with us for over a decade and understands our working environment, is a great assurance for the team. “Amthal Fire & Security’s proactive approach ensures security upgrades and now maintenance needs are identified. They operate on a seamless basis without affecting the daily working environment and we trust their reliability and ability to deliver on all our requirements quickly, cost effectively, on time and in full. This means Notting Hill Housing Group staff can focus on our duty to deliver affordable housing and better social communities in London.” Jamie Allam, Commercial Director of Amthal Fire & Security added: “At the heart of social enterprise is the need to create homes and communities in which residents want to live. "“Amthal Fire & Security’s proactive approach ensures security upgrades and now maintenance needs are identified" But equally important is for staff at organizations expected to deliver on such Government objectives to feel safe and secure at their workplace. This is where Notting Hill Housing Group has proven how relying on a trusted brand as Amthal Fire & Security, with proven experience to deliver on all security and maintenance needs, can provide total and continued peace of mind.” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, maintenance and monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions; including intruder, fire, access and CCTV solutions. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

The company has high performance intruder alarms and an intricate CCTV system from Amthal Fire & Security Amthal Fire & Security has driven security through all dealerships belonging to Brayleys Cars Limited, ensuring each site is carefully maintained and remotely monitored at all times for ultimate protection of assets. Award winning Brayleys Cars Ltd was first established in St Albans in 2003 and has rapidly grown to become a Honda, Mazda, Kia, Renault and Dacia dealership group with centers in St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Grays, Enfield, Harpenden and Milton Keynes. The company has worked with Amthal Fire & Security since its creation and maintains peace of mind on all sites with high performance intruder alarms, fire systems and an intricate CCTV system that is remotely monitored twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days of the year. Says Paul Brayley, Managing Director of Brayleys Cars Limited: “The success of Brayleys Cars I believe is down to the service we offer, where a happy team equals happy customers, and this is truly at the heart of everything we do.  As this is so important to us, we expect it from our own partners and suppliers. “I have worked with Amthal Fire & Security since we started and have always received an excellent service.  Their level of understanding both of the latest security solutions available, and also the bespoke requirements of our showrooms is one of the many reasons we continue to rely on them for all our fire and security needs as our business and site numbers grow.” Jamie Allam, Commercial Director of Amthal Fire & Security added: “Car showrooms require a unique approach to fire and security to balance an open and welcoming environment for customers, with the need to protect the high value investment in the cars and accessories on display. It is essential that specification, installation and maintenance is carefully considered and we will continue to work in close partnership with Paul to deliver exact requirements.” Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, fire, access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)