Page 59 - the SyI Quarterly 15

The good news is that statistically, the risk of a terrorist
incident remains extremely low. For an individual to be at
the location at the time of an incident, with the number of
potential targets, in population ratios, the likelihood of being
a victim is unquantifiable in percentage terms. Taking this
information forward is essential to recall when somebody
suggests physical security measures that are either
permanent or temporary. Any financial cost and disruption
in conditions must be justifiable. Ownership of risk appetite
must remain with the management for risk acceptance and
not be determined by advisors. Eliminating risk is impossible.

Those who experienced the Northern Irish troubles which
crossed to the mainland will be familiar with the political
intent which drove this terror campaign. Still, a steadfast
determination existed not to outwardly change fundamental
lifestyles or increase fear across communities or cities. The
security family must understand today’s terrorisations for
what they are and have an essential appreciation of how
these coercions, intimidations or extortions affect societies
and can be effectively managed or reduced.
Within the security industry, there are too many posts
with the title ‘security’; these can confuse potential clients
seeking a type of security consultant. Who can define an
expert? Fundamental issues exist for people purporting
to be security experts, who must clearly understand the
relationship between Threat Levels and Threat Assessments,
Risk management and Risk aversion.

There are careers where customers assume that individuals
may have delivered forms of security and have a level of
knowledge and experience which is only sometimes the case.
While the need to develop further business opportunities
is fully appreciated, businesses must mitigate risks by
engaging with competent and knowledgeable specialists and
developing new personnel to achieve competency.

While some posts within the police and military impart
relevant specialist skills and knowledge for individuals to
be fast-tracked to full consultancy roles, this is not always
the case. Generic skills transferred from public service
can afford an excellent base. However, individuals looking
to make this career jump need to develop academic and
practical experience beyond joining membership bodies
alone. Certain people work within the Counter Terrorism
field, which alone does not equip them to be private-sector
CT Physical Security Advisors. Few have in-depth knowledge
of physical security, experience in completing Security Risk
Assessments or understanding Threat Vulnerability Risk
Assessments in publicly accessible locations.

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