The first UK organisation to comply with a new NSI Code of Practice for the design, installation and maintenance of scaffolding alarm systems (NCP 115) has been announced today by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI).
London based Panthera Group, specialists in the provision of scaffolding alarms and site security, has been awarded NACOSS Gold approval under NSI’s new scope of approval for scaffolding alarm systems.
NCP 115, developed by NSI, and introduced in January this year, provides an industry benchmark to which scaffold alarm systems providers can now aspire and adhere. The scaffold alarms sector was without any form of voluntary regulation or industry-specific standards prior to the introduction of the new NSI Code leaving the way clear for poor standards of workmanship and malpractice.
Working with NSI over many months during the pilot phase, Panthera Group laid bare its practices and procedures to NSI by being rigorously audited by the Inspectorate, enabling the new Code of Practice to be robustly tried, tested and refined.
NSI Chief Executive, Jeff Little, OBE, commented: “The introduction to market of NCP 115 has enormous ramifications particularly for the Security, Construction, Insurance and Health & Safety sectors. The UK now has an industry-specific benchmark which may be specified by those with a vested interest in the security and safety of domestic, commercial, public and historic properties, whether void or occupied.
"The specification of NCP 115 will undoubtedly help to mitigate risk during periods of vulnerability when work on a property, such as construction, maintenance and renovation, is being carried out and scaffolding is present.
“NCP 115 breaks new ground in a sector previously devoid of Standards and best practice and I applaud Panthera Group for leading the way in this niche security sector. Their NACOSS Gold approval with NSI is very well deserved and I wish them every success in their future.”
Neal James, Managing Director of Panthera Group commented “The new NCP 115 Code of Practice should at last provide a much needed industry benchmark, raise installation standards and hopefully eliminate some serious malpractice that this industry has become accustomed to. NCP 115 will provide reassurance to companies and individuals who specify scaffolding alarm systems. It will also assist them in their ‘duty of care’ to clients and residents, whilst helping to mitigate their risk in the event of a burglary or worse.
“Prior to becoming a NACOSS Gold approved scaffold alarm company, Panthera Group were approved by another certification body. My company and I have been so impressed with the entire NSI approval process, it has confirmed our decision to approach NSI. Professional, knowledgeable, friendly and a passion for development and progression of their own organisation, these have all been key components to a very robust, but ultimately rewarding process of becoming a NACOSS Gold approved company.”
