Canine Security vs. Static Guarding
Canine Security vs. Static Guarding
Selecting the right security method is essential for achieving the best return on investment
(ROI) and ensuring your site’s protection is both efficient and proportionate to the level of
risk. At Parabellum Security, our deployments are guided by four core principles: Detect,
Deter, Delay, and Respond. Understanding how canine security and static guarding align
with these principles helps clients make informed, results-driven decisions.
Why Construction Site Security Must Be Risk Led
Construction environments change rapidly. Site boundaries move, access points shift, asset
values fluctuate, and threat levels evolve as projects progress. A static or generic security
setup quickly becomes ineffective.
A risk led security service focuses on:
● Identifying critical assets and operational vulnerabilities
● Understanding likely threat vectors such as theft, trespass, vandalism, and disruption
● Applying proportionate controls based on risk severity and project phase
● Maintaining compliance with SIA licensing requirements and HSE expectations
Security personnel play an important role, but only when deployed within a structured
service model that adapts to changing site conditions and risk profiles.
Parabellum’s Four Pillars
Effective construction security services are built around a clear operating model.
Parabellum structures its security services around four interdependent pillars that ensure threats are managed consistently and proportionately.
Detect
Early identification of unauthorised activity or abnormal conditions is critical. Detection is
achieved through a combination of trained personnel, patrol activity, CCTV systems, access
control, and monitored alarms. Early detection reduces the likelihood of escalation and
enables informed decision making.
Deter
Visible and well-managed security measures reduce the attractiveness of the site as a
target. Deterrence includes controlled entry points, signage, patrol patterns, lighting, and
where appropriate, canine support. A credible deterrent presence discourages opportunistic
and organised activity.
Delay
Where intrusion is attempted, delay measures slow progress and create time for response.
These include physical barriers, layered access control, secure compounds, and procedural controls. Delay increases the effectiveness of detection and response measures.
Respond
Response is governed through clear command structures, escalation protocols, incident reporting, and coordination with site management and emergency services. Effective
response ensures incidents are managed safely, proportionately, and in line with compliance requirements.
Security personnel operate within this framework, acting as both a control and an
intelligence layer rather than a standalone guarding presence.
Construction Site Security Service Models
The appropriate security service model depends on site layout, asset value, programme
phase, and risk exposure. A capable provider will design a service that evolves as the
project progresses.
Common service elements include:
● Static security posts at access points, high value zones, and welfare areas
● Mobile patrols to provide coverage across large or multi site footprints
● Canine support for high risk environments requiring enhanced deterrence and search
capability
● Remote monitored CCTV and access control to extend visibility and provide
evidential oversight
Integrated service models align these elements to the four pillars of Detect, Deter, Delay, and Respond, ensuring coverage is effective without unnecessary duplication or cost.
Selecting the Right Construction Security Service Provider
When assessing a construction security service, decision makers should focus on operational capability rather than branding or marketing claims.
Key considerations include:
● Valid SIA licensing, insurance, and regulatory compliance
● Construction specific training, induction, and site awareness
● A defined command structure with clear supervision and oversight
● Documented escalation, reporting, and incident management processes
● The ability to deliver site specific risk assessments and security service plans
A professional provider will evidence how their service aligns to detection, deterrence, delay,
and response rather than relying on guard numbers alone.
The Role of Security Risk Assessment in Service Design
A formal security risk assessment underpins the entire security service.
It should include:
● Asset identification and valuation
● Site layout analysis and perimeter review
● Review of historical incidents and local threat patterns
● Identification of CCTV blind spots and access weaknesses
● Risk scoring to prioritise controls
The output should be a structured security service plan defining coverage models,
technology deployment, response thresholds, and escalation procedures. This ensures
security measures remain proportionate, auditable, and defensible.
Cost Control and Value in Security Services
Security costs should be assessed in the context of risk reduction and operational assurance, not hourly rates alone.
Key cost drivers include:
● Personnel numbers and shift structures
● Static versus mobile coverage models
● Technology integration and monitoring requirements
● Supervision, reporting, and management oversight
A well designed service often reduces overall manned hours through improved detection and
intelligent deployment while strengthening response capability.
Vetting and Due Diligence
Procurement and risk teams should apply structured due diligence when appointing a construction security service provider.
This includes:
● Verification of SIA licence numbers and renewal status
● Review of training, vetting, and competency records
● Sample risk assessments, site instructions, and incident reports
● Evidence of construction sector experience with measurable outcomes
References should focus on operational performance, not general satisfaction.
Engaging a Specialist Construction Security Service
Construction site security requires more than guarding provision. It demands a managed,
risk led security service aligned with compliance, programme delivery, and asset protection.
Organisations responsible for managing construction risk should engage in operational
discussions focused on threat exposure, control measures, and governance rather than
headline pricing.
For decision makers seeking a formal risk assessment and a clearly defined construction
security service framework, Parabellum Security Services delivers specialist solutions builtaround Detect, Deter, Delay, and Respond.
Discussions are centred on risk, compliance, and operational control, ensuring security
arrangements are proportionate, defensible, and aligned with how construction projects are delivered in practice.
