Noah Price, head of the G4S Academy, provides an overview of the security threats faced by warehouse and distribution services, together with a useful overview of how to stay one step ahead through security best practice.
The threats facing the warehouse and distribution services include:
1 Theft of goods during storage
The most common threat is loss of goods and assets through criminal activities, and organisations need to secure their sites and buildings, using a mix of detection and deterrence methods. However, the greatest threat to warehouse and delivery centre stock comes from insiders.
2 Theft of goods during transportation
While being transported, cargo can be stolen, tampered with or used to conceal illegal immigrants.
Most attacks on vehicles involve the driver having little time to respond, so security awareness for drivers is key.
3 Health and safety
Organisations have a duty of care to protect the health and safety of their employees, contractors, visitors and clients, and if something goes wrong, they may find themselves financially liable. Good security can enhance procedures to mitigate against such risks.
4 Cyber security
With many organisations relying heavily on automated processes and large amounts of data being exchanged between those within the supply chain, the risks of cyber-attacks have never been higher.
5 Fire, flood, and adverse weather damage
Fires in warehouses and distribution centres are not uncommon. There is also risk from high winds and the risk of flooding is increasing.
6 Activism and civil disobedience
The use of campaigns and protests has significantly increased, creating a constantly evolving threat. Attacks may not be against the organisation directly, it could become a target because of the partners it works with, or the nature or brand of goods stored or transported.
7 Impact of Covid-19
Around three-quarters of supply chain organisations experienced some level of disruption and reduced operations due to the pandemic and these changes created new opportunities for criminals and organised criminal groups. The effects of the pandemic continue to impact on supply chains.
THE FUNDAMENTALS OF GOOD SECURITY
In response to these threats, a number of elements need to be in place, in order to achieve good security and stay ahead of the evolving threat.
Regular risk assessment and planning
With regular risk assessment and planning being the foundation of good security, it’s worth taking time to consider whether your organisational and supply chain risk assessments and plans are up to date, and whether you have a regular documented refresh plan.
Regular testing
In the same way that businesses use penetration testing to test cyber security, physical security should be tested against various scenarios. Table-top exercises can be an excellent way to identify possible weaknesses and be prepared.
A more holistic approach to training
Organisations can benefit from thinking about training in a more holistic way. Security officers will receive training relevant to specific needs, however, it is also vital to encourage employees to take part in relevant security training.
Working in partnership
The best security solutions will be achieved where security providers and clients work closely together, as collaboration can help to reach the best solutions, more quickly.
Developing a strong security culture
A strong security culture will ensure that employees are security-conscious and aware of the most effective ways of protecting assets, including themselves. It is important to review the security culture on a regular basis.
Insights, shared information and best practice
Good security utilises insights and shared information, while also using best practice from first responders.
Balancing security and customer service
In addition to providing an excellent security service, security officers working in the warehouse and distribution services sector must be proficient in customer service.
Embracing new ideas and new technologies
For example, G4S can supply delivery fleet security solutions either by providing escort services, or through the use of telematics. G4S can also provide remote monitoring of sensor measurements, such as temperature and humidity, to prevent unnecessary loss of food stuffs and other environmentally sensitive goods.
Building integration in security
Security that is integrated and planned holistically, is likely to work better, because it has been designed to ensure that there are no gaps to be exploited. Physical security for example is best when security professionals work in harmony with good technology, and when integrated with personnel security (protecting from the insider threat) and cyber security (protecting digital data and systems).
Noah Price is International Director of the G4S Academy which is responsible for sharing specialist threat and security knowledge. It provides regular, free security bulletins on potential threats, which can be a useful part of security planning. For more information on the threats facing warehouse and distribution services and what makes good security read the G4S guide here: www.g4s.com/en-gb/what-we-do/security-solutions/securing-warehousing-and-distribution/securing-warehousing-and-distribution-guide
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