Tag Archive for: Remote Monitoring

LIVE CCTV Monitoring Detects Intruders

CCTV Monitoring Warns Intruder and Protects Site

An empty site at early hours might seem especially vulnerable to a hostile assailant, but with Corps Monitoring’s robust protection, it remains protected around the clock. Although our client site in Edinburgh has high fences and clear signage, that did not stop two males from climbing the fence and attempting to access the site.

Incident overview: Alarm Activation Response Within Minutes

At 04:11 am one morning in May, the National Security Inspectorate Gold, BS5979 accredited Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) received an alarm triggered by two males entering the site. The males were detected by our systems before they scaled the protective wall of the site and an audio warning was immediately issued. Keyholders were also notified, and the ARC notified the police. The officers arrived on site within 9 minutes, arriving at 04:20 am.

Both intruders were deterred from the site, and one male was arrested by the police within 15 minutes of their arrival.

CCTV Monitoring: The Crime-Prevention Essential

  • Rapid Response Capability: Real-time video and audio feeds empower security personnel to react immediately, deterring issues before they escalate.
  • Preventative Security Strategy: Intervening before an intruder causes harm is far more cost-effective than dealing with theft, damage, or lengthy insurance procedures.
  • Adaptable Systems: Monitoring solutions can be configured to meet unique risk profiles, whether for large-scale commercial premises or smaller, temporary sites.
  • Recorded Evidence: Should an incident occur, high-definition footage provides clear, indisputable evidence for police reports or insurance claims.

Corps Monitoring’s Specialised Offerings

Corps Monitoring offers expertly managed remote security services, developed to meet the distinct needs of clients across the commercial, residential, and construction industries. Our key offerings include:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Advanced alarm-linked camera systems trigger alerts automatically, enabling our team to instantly review footage and identify potential security threats.
  • Remote Monitoring: Operators based at the Corps Monitoring Centre ensure constant surveillance, verbal warnings, and emergency escalation, offering round-the-clock protection without requiring staff on-site.
  • Intruder Monitoring: Any unusual behaviour is assessed live, with confirmed security breaches swiftly reported to pre-arranged contacts or emergency services as needed.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: In addition to guarding against intrusion, our team monitors fire alarms to help mitigate significant property damage from fires.
  • CCTV Surveillance: Especially effective in high-risk or high-traffic areas, this service ensures continuous observation and proactive threat management.
  • Corps Protect – Lone Worker Monitoring: Essential protection for employees working alone, incorporating emergency call features, GPS tracking, and scheduled check-ins. The service supports a wide range of devices—including smartwatches, ID badges, discreet alarms, and Halo body cameras, so workers can choose the most suitable option for their environment.

Conclusion: Immediate Response Means Immediate Results

In a split second, everything can change. Within seconds of an assailant’s arrival, our ARC became aware, made the client aware, and followed the approved escalation process, which in this situation involved calling emergency services.

It was made clear to these individuals that they were trespassing through the audio warning issued, and sometimes that alone deters them. But if it doesn’t, our ARC responds—quickly and decisively—to whatever situation arises.

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Real-Time CCTV Monitoring Removes Trespassers

CCTV Monitoring Protects Construction Site

On construction sites, proactive protection is vital. When spaces are left empty, at night or during the day, equipment and materials can become attractive targets for intruders or a space for curious minds to explore. Though fencing and signage are visual deterrents, trespassers are not always deterred. This case study shows how Corps Monitoring’s alarm activation services helped deter a group of intruders at a client’s construction site, preventing any damage to the site with rapid detection, effective audio intervention and immediate escalation via swift communication with police services.

Incident Overview: Alarm Activation Receives Immediate Response

One afternoon in April at a construction site in Edinburgh, the Corps Monitoring Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) was alerted to an alarm activation that showed a group of individuals crawling under the gate and entering the site. Within seconds, the detection activated the audio challenge system, and the operator issued a live warning through the site’s public address signal. The intervention did not immediately deter the intruders, and the ARC notified the police to attend the site. Officers then attended the site within half an hour and led the intruders offsite, and the site was once again secured.

CCTV Monitoring: An Essential Investment

  • Immediate Response Capability: Live video and audio monitoring allow security operators to respond instantly, preventing incidents before they become serious.
  • Proactive Security Approach: Stopping intruders saves significantly more money than addressing theft, property damage, or processing insurance claims afterwards.
  • Customisable Solutions: Security monitoring systems can be tailored to address specific vulnerabilities, whether for expansive commercial properties or compact renovation sites.
  • Documented Security Events: In case of incidents, crystal-clear HD footage provides conclusive evidence for law enforcement investigations or insurance documentation.

Corps Monitoring’s Specialised Offerings

Corps Monitoring delivers comprehensive remote security solutions customised for commercial, residential, and construction sector requirements. Our core services include:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Alarm activation technology integrated with cameras automatically generates alerts, enabling operators to review footage and confirm potential threats.
  • Remote monitoring: Security professionals at the Corps Monitoring Centre deliver continuous observation, verbal intervention, and emergency notification—providing uninterrupted protection without on-site personnel.
  • Intruder Monitoring: All suspicious activities undergo real-time assessment, with security breaches promptly reported to designated contacts and emergency responders as appropriate.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: Beyond theft prevention, Corps operators also track fire alarm activations to help minimise extensive property loss.
  • CCTV Surveillance: Particularly valuable for vulnerable or busy locations, this service enables ongoing visual assessment and active threat response.
  • Corps Protect – Lone Worker Monitoring: We deliver critical safeguards for isolated workers through emergency alert buttons, location tracking, and scheduled check-ins, all continuously monitored by our operations centre. Compatible with various devices, including smartwatches, identification badges, discreet personal alarms, and Halo wearable cameras, allowing personnel to select the format best suited to their particular work environment.

Conclusion: Real-Time Reactions Deliver Swift Results

With intrusions like these, every second counts. Within seconds, these intruders were made aware that the site was monitored and that they needed to leave immediately. In some cases, this deterrent is enough. We have evidenced sites where an audio warning deterred an intruder, and police involvement was not required.

But when intruders continue to stay on site, an ARC’s split-second response means that police intervention can occur as quickly as possible.

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CCTV Monitoring Protects Client Building Site From Intruder

Proactive Protection: Real-Time CCTV Monitoring Foils Attempted Break-In

In the world of construction, protecting active and unoccupied sites is more important than ever. Equipment and materials are often left unattended, making them attractive targets for opportunistic intruders. This case study highlights how CCTV monitoring from Corps Monitoring helped deter an intruder at a client’s construction site, preventing a potential break-in and loss of assets. Thanks to rapid detection, effective audio intervention, and immediate escalation, the site remained secure — all without the need for manned guarding.

Incident Overview: Motion-Triggered Alert Leads to Immediate Deterrence

During an overnight shift, Corps Monitoring received a motion-triggered alarm from a sensor at one of its monitored building sites. Through the connected CCTV monitoring system, operators at the Corps Monitoring Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) observed an individual entering the site unlawfully.

Activating the audio challenge system, the operator issued a live warning over the site’s public address system. The intruder, startled by the voice alert confirming they were being watched, fled the scene immediately. This real-time intervention meant that there was no physical breach, no damage, and no loss — a textbook example of successful security monitoring.

Why CCTV Monitoring Is a Vital Investment for Construction Sites

  • Real-Time Intervention: With live surveillance and audio capabilities, CCTV monitoring enables operators to act in the moment — before a situation escalates.
  • Prevention Over Reaction: Deterring intruders is more cost-effective than dealing with theft, vandalism, or insurance claims after the fact.
  • Scalable and Flexible: Whether it’s a large commercial development or a small refurbishment project, security monitoring systems can be adapted to the site’s unique risks.
  • Evidence Capture: Should an incident occur, high-definition CCTV footage provides clear evidence for police or insurance providers.

Tailored Security Monitoring Services from Corps Monitoring

Corps Monitoring provides a fully integrated range of remote security solutions, tailored to the needs of commercial, residential, and construction clients. Key services include:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Camera activation integrated with camera systems instantly trigger alerts, allowing operators to view footage and verify threats.
  • Remote Monitoring: Operatives based in the Corps Monitoring Centre provide 24/7 surveillance, audio intervention, and alarm escalation — ensuring constant protection without a physical presence.
  • Intruder Monitoring: All unusual activity is evaluated in real-time, with intrusions escalated to keyholders and emergency services as necessary.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: Protecting more than just against theft, Corps’ operators also monitor for fire system activations to help prevent large-scale property damage.
  • CCTV Live Surveillance: Ideal for high-risk or high-traffic sites, this service allows for constant visual oversight and proactive threat management.
    Lone Worker Monitoring (Corps Protect): Corps Protect provides essential protection for staff working alone, offering features such as panic alerts, GPS tracking, and timed check-ins — all monitored in real time by our control centre. It supports multiple devices including a wearable watch, ID badge, discreet fob, and Halo body-worn camera, allowing users to choose the format that suits their role best.

Conclusion: CCTV Monitoring That Delivers Real Results

This incident serves as a clear reminder of the value that proactive CCTV monitoring provides. The quick actions of the Corps Monitoring team meant the intruder was deterred within moments — with no need for site attendance or police involvement. It’s another example of how effective security monitoring can secure sites and support clients in managing risk efficiently. Whether you’re protecting a single building site or an entire portfolio, Corps Monitoring is equipped to deliver peace of mind through intelligent, responsive, and reliable intruder monitoring solutions.

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15 Second Security Monitoring Response Leads To Apprehension Of Three Intruders

Speed Saves the Day: Real-Time CCTV Monitoring Stops Criminal Activity in Its Tracks

When it comes to protecting property, speed is everything. Thanks to a rapid 15-second response from the Corps Monitoring Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), three intruders were caught on-site and swiftly apprehended. This incident, captured in full on camera, demonstrates the power of well-executed CCTV monitoring paired with trained professionals who know how to act fast.

For the client, it meant no damage, no losses, and complete peace of mind — all delivered through real-time security monitoring.

Incident Overview: Three Intruders Detected, Audio Warning Issued, Police Notified

In the early hours of the morning, a live alert was triggered by motion sensors on a client’s building site. Within 15 seconds, Corps’ operators were viewing live footage via the CCTV monitoring system and confirmed the presence of three individuals moving through the site.

The team immediately issued a live audio warning, announcing that the intruders were being recorded and that police had been notified. This direct intervention caused two of the suspects to flee. However, thanks to the rapid intruder monitoring and escalation process, all three were ultimately apprehended by local authorities shortly after.

The Impact of Fast, Professional CCTV Monitoring

  • Rapid Response: A 15-second operator response ensured that the incident was managed before damage or theft could occur.
  • Audio Intervention: The use of a real-time voice challenge alerted the intruders and disrupted their plans.
  • Effective Escalation: By providing accurate incident information to both police and keyholders, Corps supported a swift arrest.
  • Client Reassurance: Continuous monitoring gave the client confidence that their property was secure even outside working hours.

Specialist Security Monitoring Services from Corps Monitoring

Corps Monitoring delivers complete, professional remote security support — not just for construction sites, but for logistics centres, retail parks, healthcare estates, and more. Services include:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Motion-activated alerts allow operators to quickly identify activity and verify whether a threat is real.
  • Remote Monitoring: Corps’ 24/7 operations centre is staffed by SIA-licensed professionals who provide continuous coverage and incident response.
  • Intruder Monitoring: Every site is configured for tailored intrusion alerts, backed by trained personnel who know how to manage threats.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: Automated alerts from fire detection systems allow the CMC to respond instantly and initiate emergency contact protocols.
  • CCTV Live Surveillance: When risks are higher, continuous visual oversight offers real-time protection with proactive deterrence.
  • Lone Worker Monitoring (Corps Protect): The Corps Protect lone worker platform combines GPS location tracking, scheduled check-ins, and emergency response capabilities, all backed by our 24-hour monitoring team. Staff can use the system via a selection of devices — including a smart fob, wearable ID badge, Halo body-worn camera, or digital watch — for reliable and responsive protection on the move.

Conclusion: High-Speed Security That Delivers Tangible Results

This incident is a prime example of how fast, intelligent CCTV monitoring can make all the difference. Within moments, an attempted intrusion was identified, challenged, and resolved — all without loss or disruption. From the moment the alarm triggered to the moment police arrived, Corps Monitoring’s expert team demonstrated the value of effective security monitoring and its role in safeguarding people and property. It’s a reminder that professional intruder monitoring doesn’t just respond to threats — it stops them in their tracks.

 

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CCTV Monitoring Identifies Intruders At Protected Building Site

Vigilant Monitoring in Action: CCTV Identifies Trespassers Before Damage Occurs

Construction sites are prime targets for trespassers and opportunistic thieves, particularly during quieter hours. But when a well-designed CCTV monitoring is in place — supported by experienced operators — the risks are significantly reduced. This case study highlights a successful intervention where Corps Monitoring spotted and deterred three intruders at a protected building site, all without incident or damage.

Incident Overview: Trespassers Spotted and Warned Off Instantly

In this incident, the Corps Monitoring Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) received a motion-triggered alert from a temporarily unoccupied building site. Upon reviewing the live feed from the CCTV monitoring system, operatives clearly identified three young individuals who had accessed the scaffolding around the structure.

Thanks to the rapid response from the team, a real-time voice challenge was issued via the site’s public address system. The intruders, startled and clearly unprepared for an active security monitoring response, immediately fled the scene. The incident was recorded and shared with the client, who praised the professional handling and outcome.

Proactive Intruder Monitoring Makes the Difference

  • Visual Confirmation: Motion sensors triggered the alert, but it was trained eyes on the footage that made the difference.
  • Audio Deterrent: A calm but firm voice challenge delivered in real-time reminded the trespassers that they were under surveillance.
  • Peace of Mind: The client was informed within minutes and assured that their site had been secured without any escalation.
  • No Loss, No Downtime: Thanks to fast intervention, work resumed without interruption or repair costs.

Tailored Security Monitoring Services for Every Environment

Corps Monitoring delivers flexible and scalable protection for sites of all sizes. Whether a site is active, closed, or under partial construction, our services adapt to your needs:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Smart sensors work in tandem with live feeds to alert the CMC to unauthorised movements.
  • Remote Monitoring: Our central hub operates 24/7/365, offering clients around-the-clock reassurance that their assets are protected.
  • Intruder Monitoring: With site-specific configurations and escalation pathways, we catch unauthorised access quickly and respond with precision.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: Integration with fire detection systems ensures we respond to more than just security risks — we also protect against environmental hazards.
  • CCTV Live Surveillance: For high-risk environments, continuous watch allows for proactive identification and resolution of emerging threats.
  • Lone Worker Monitoring (Corps Protect): Designed for lone workers across all sectors, the Corps Protect system ensures safety through real-time monitoring, location tracking, and scheduled check-ins. Devices available include a wristwatch, an ID badge holder, a fob, and the Halo body camera, offering adaptable solutions for different environments and roles.

Conclusion: Visibility and Speed Are Key to Site Protection

This incident serves as another reminder that CCTV monitoring is about far more than just reviewing footage. It’s about live, responsive action — the kind of action that prevents damage and deters crime before it takes root. With Corps Monitoring’s responsive security monitoring and dedicated intruder monitoring protocols, sites remain safe and clients stay informed, all with zero disruption to their day-to-day operations.

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Security Monitoring Deters Intruder At Cardiff Site

Day or Night, CCTV Monitoring Keeps Sites Secure

Security threats don’t wait for nightfall — they can happen any time. This was proven during a recent daytime incident in Cardiff, when a would-be intruder attempted to gain access to a construction site under surveillance by Corps Monitoring. Thanks to quick action from the control room and an effective on-site deterrent system, the situation was handled swiftly and safely. This case highlights just how essential proactive CCTV monitoring is in maintaining site integrity.

Incident Overview: Intruder Approaches, Leaves Empty-Handed

Operators at the Corps Monitoring Centre received a motion alert triggered by a strategically placed sensor on a Cardiff site. Upon checking the live feed, they spotted a single unauthorised individual exploring the site’s perimeter and attempting to enter a restricted zone.

The site’s security monitoring setup included a public address system, allowing the operative to issue a clear verbal challenge in real-time. The intruder turned and exited immediately — no damage, no theft, and no confrontation. This is the power of preventative intruder monitoring at work.

Confidence Through Prevention, Not Reaction

  • Smart Monitoring in Broad Daylight: Intrusions can happen at any hour — professional monitoring must be constant.
  • Live Audio Challenges: The voice intervention not only deterred the intruder but also demonstrated the presence of active surveillance.
  • Client Notification: The client was updated with a full incident report and a video clip — reassurance delivered.
  • Minimal Disruption: With no police or keyholder attendance required, the incident was resolved quickly and discreetly.

Comprehensive and Scalable Security Services from Corps Monitoring

Corps Monitoring protects construction sites, commercial premises, and critical infrastructure across the UK with a comprehensive portfolio of remote services, including:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Our sensor-driven alerts feed directly to the Corps Monitoring Centre, allowing trained operatives to verify and act on threats quickly.
  • Remote Monitoring: We provide 24/7 professional surveillance, protecting properties without the cost or limitations of manned guarding.
  • Intruder Monitoring: Each site is tailored for responsive intruder monitoring, ensuring trespassers are identified and dealt with before incidents escalate.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: Our systems also handle fire alerts, so hazards are flagged and responded to instantly — protecting both assets and lives.
  • CCTV Live Surveillance: High-risk or high-value environments benefit from real-time oversight and intervention through continuous live feeds.
  • Lone Worker Monitoring (Corps Protect): Corps Protect enhances lone worker safety with live GPS location tracking, panic button functionality, and routine check-in reminders — all managed through our 24/7 monitoring centre. Users can access the system through various devices, including an ID badge, wearable watch, Halo body-worn camera, or compact fob, depending on their preference.

Conclusion: Real-Time Security, Real-World Results

This Cardiff incident is a strong example of how CCTV monitoring deters rather than reacts. The intruder’s quick retreat demonstrates that a visible, active surveillance presence — paired with professional security monitoring — is a highly effective deterrent. At Corps Monitoring, we don’t just record what happens; we stop it from happening. And that’s exactly what today’s businesses and contractors need from a modern intruder monitoring service.

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Security Monitoring Helps Protect Closed Building Site From Intruder

Smart Surveillance That Never Clocks Off

Even when work stops, risks don’t. Closed construction sites are particularly vulnerable to trespass, theft, and vandalism — especially outside of working hours. This incident shows how CCTV monitoring from Corps Monitoring provided continuous protection at a temporarily closed site in Edinburgh. With no on-site personnel present, the intruder might have gone unnoticed — if not for the swift response from our remote security team.

Incident Overview: Unauthorised Access Prevented at Inactive Site

Late in the evening, a motion sensor triggered an alert from a camera positioned near the site’s perimeter. The signal was immediately received by Corps’ Monitoring Centre. Within seconds, operators accessed the live camera stream and observed an individual climbing the fencing.

Using the site’s public address system, the security monitoring team issued a real-time audio warning. The intruder, clearly caught off guard, quickly exited the site. The footage was logged, and the client was provided with a detailed incident report — all without the need for physical security presence.

Keeping Watch When No One Else Is Around

  • No Staff Needed On-Site: Remote visibility allowed for immediate intervention without putting anyone at risk.
  • Real-Time Escalation: Had the intruder remained, emergency services could have been called within seconds.
  • Reliable Surveillance During Downtime: Whether a site is paused for a day or several weeks, CCTV monitoring ensures it’s never left unprotected.
  • Reassurance and Reporting: Clients receive fast, clear updates following any alert, backed up with time-stamped footage.
  • Always-On Monitoring from Corps: Built for Every Risk Profile

Our tailored monitoring services provide scalable, cost-effective security for clients with diverse properties and operational challenges. We offer:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Advanced camera activation linked to CCTV ensures only verified threats are escalated.
  • Remote Monitoring: Our control room operates 24/7/365 — always watching, always ready to respond.
  • Intruder Monitoring: Smart zone setups and behavioural analytics help identify and act on unauthorised movement as it happens.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: Integrated fire detection systems allow our operators to alert emergency services at the first sign of danger.
  • CCTV Live Surveillance: For high-risk or complex sites, continuous video feeds offer active monitoring with human oversight.
  • Lone Worker Monitoring (Corps Protect): Created to support remote and isolated workers, the Corps Protect app delivers features like live GPS updates, emergency panic signals, and scheduled check-ins, all monitored around the clock. It works with several device types including a wristwatch, fob, Halo camera, and badge-style unit for complete flexibility.

Conclusion: Silent, Secure, and Unseen

With no one on-site and no noise made, this could have been a costly intrusion. But with intelligent CCTV monitoring and expert intruder monitoring, the situation was resolved before it even started. Corps Monitoring’s proactive security monitoring approach means closed doesn’t mean vulnerable. Our remote systems, backed by skilled professionals, provide a dependable line of defence — day or night, rain or shine.

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CCTV Monitoring Leads To The Arrest Of An Intruder

Remote Eyes, Real-Time Action: Arrest Made Following Intrusion Detection

Effective site security isn’t just about preventing unauthorised access — it’s also about ensuring that when an incident occurs, it’s handled quickly and decisively. This case demonstrates how CCTV monitoring by Corps Monitoring led directly to the arrest of an intruder after suspicious activity was caught on camera and escalated in real-time to local police.

Thanks to vigilant monitoring, audio deterrence, and fast escalation, the site remained secure, and the offender was taken into custody.

Incident Overview: Intruder Apprehended Following Live CCTV Alert

A motion alert was triggered on-site in the early hours of the morning. Within moments, Corps Monitoring’s control room staff accessed the live video stream and verified an unauthorised individual inside the premises.

As part of the security monitoring protocol, an audio challenge was issued, but the intruder continued to move through the property. At that point, police were contacted and given a real-time update, including a physical description of the suspect. Officers arrived at the scene shortly after and apprehended the individual without further incident.

This is a clear success story for intruder monitoring, with all parties working in unison to protect property and ensure accountability.

Trusted Security, Trusted Results

  • Escalation that Works: Immediate contact with police and keyholders ensured rapid attendance and resolution.
  • Invaluable Evidence: Footage was shared with the client and retained for legal and insurance purposes.
  • Real-Time Insight: The ability to watch, verify, and communicate from the monitoring centre proved critical to the arrest.
  • Minimal Disruption: The client was able to return to business as usual with no damage or losses.

Corps Monitoring: Professional, Proactive Security Services

Our range of security services is designed to prevent incidents and protect what matters. For clients across the UK, we provide:

  • CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring: Sensors and cameras work together to flag suspicious movement, with alerts instantly assessed by professionals.
  • Remote Monitoring: Our operators provide 24/7, real-time surveillance and incident handling — without the cost of manned guarding.
  • Intruder Monitoring: Sites are configured for tailored detection and response, with intrusion scenarios handled quickly and appropriately.
  • Fire Alarm Monitoring: We monitor more than just security threats. Fire alarm integrations ensure life safety systems receive equal priority.
  • TV Live Surveillance: For high-risk areas, continuous camera feeds allow for live, proactive monitoring and real-time decision making.
  • Lone Worker Monitoring: (Corps Protect): Supporting safety for those who work alone, Corps Protect combines scheduled check-ins, emergency alerts, and live location sharing, all overseen by trained professionals. Whether accessed via a watch, ID badge, personal fob, or Halo body camera, the system is designed to fit seamlessly into any working routine.

Conclusion: Arrests Happen When Monitoring Is Immediate

This case serves as a powerful reminder that CCTV monitoring isn’t just about catching events after they happen — it’s about stopping them in their tracks. Corps Monitoring’s experienced team not only deterred a threat but enabled authorities to act swiftly. From first alert to final outcome, our security monitoring and intruder monitoring systems proved their value. With Corps on watch, you’re never out of sight, and never unprotected.

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Meet The Team - Robert Thomson

Meet The Team – Robert Thomson

Across all divisions of Corps, our aim is to create professional development opportunities for life. Joining the Corps Monitoring team is a chance to build a career in the remote monitoring security sector. From our NSI Gold Cat II accredited alarm receiving centre (ARC) in Glasgow, our team protects people, businesses, and their assets around the country 24/7.

We spoke with Robert Thomson, a member of the Corps Monitoring engineer support team about his career with us so far –

Tell us about your career at Corps so far?

I started working in the Corps Monitoring Centre (CMC) in 2013 as a temp, filling gaps in the rota to cover holidays and absence. Within a few months I moved to a full-time contract as a night shift operator handling the alarms. Here, I learned the security job, working with experienced operators (some ex-military) who had been in the trade for over 15 years. Having no experience in security these nights were valuable to me learning from the experienced operators how to do the job correctly.
When I started a family, I asked to be moved onto dayshift instead of nights. I was trained up by Jamie Brownlee and learned the admin duties in the CMC: how to run reports, deal with faults and liaise with the installers, set up keyholders and alarm handling procedures. Once I was up to speed, I started learning the networking side of security including CCTV systems.

Now, as the shift supervisor, I ensure the smooth running of the CMC leading a four-strong team on a four-on-four-off basis. I work closely with CCTV and alarm system installers, ensuring everything is correctly set up with procedures in place for alarm handling.

Why did you join the Corps Monitoring team?

I started at Corps at 27, I was saving to buy a house and wasn’t earning enough working in the hospitality trade. I knew working at Corps would not only pay better, but it felt like it would be a job for life with multiple opportunities for career development down the line. When I started, there were a range of different paths to choose: sales, IT, or operating. I choose to pursue operating, and I’ve not looked back.

Why is remote monitoring important today and how is it evolving?

Today’s society demands instant information; ‘five minutes ago’ is history. The general public increasingly uses remote monitoring for their private residence, be it a video doorbell or a CCTV camera in the driveway. More than ever, people know about the advances in technology available to them. A decade ago, the demand for this tech was significantly less as far fewer people knew they could lock or unlock doors, turn lights on or off lights, or access audio PA systems remotely. As more people learn about the advances in security tech and the benefits it carries, the appetite is growing.

Sadly, since the 80s terrorism remains a factor too. CEOs are under pressure from governments to keep their organisations secure and not be an easy target. As a security service in a secure location, remote monitoring has an essential role to play here. It’s also an effective deterrent. Criminals will think twice before intruding on a monitored premises – in some cases, even a sign on a gate can deter a criminal.

Remote monitoring is also evolving to meet the demands of safety in the workplace. 20 years ago, corporate premises security was an officer on manual patrols around the premises and filling in a logbook. Today, CCTV can monitor the site and activations can be logged and emailed to the client automatically using CCTV software. Tech has reduced the need for human interaction unless intervention is needed. This saves money while improving the role of the officer too.

How has Corps Monitoring changed in the last 5 years?

Thanks to hard work of our sales team, our client base has grown significantly. In the past, much of our business comprised large workplaces like factories and office building, but we now also monitor many smaller premises and individual residences too.

The cost of security equipment has come down, and with the range of products available, it’s no longer limited to big corporations; and everyone has access to it. CCTV alarm monitoring systems have become easier to install and many engineers that do housework (i.e., fitting lights and sockets) are now adding security installation as a service.

The job has also become more automated. For example, the software we use to monitor CCTV cameras can identify a fault and, if set up, can email the client informing them of the issue without any human interaction. With door access systems, an authorised person needs only to swipe their access card to enter. The information about when they swiped, their onward path and how long for is automatically reported and shared to the client without human interaction. These advances in hardware and software makes operating so much easier, plus the end user benefits from the information in real time.

What’s next for the remote monitoring industry?

With advances in AI, the next step will be integration with security. This is already happening, of course; a CCTV camera can be told to send activations of a DHL van but not an Amazon van. The camera reads the writing on the van and can determine if an alarm activation needs to be actioned. For wildlife, a camera can learn the shape and size of animals on sites and through machine learning can understand what is an animal and what is not. Once the system determines it is an animal, an activation will not be triggered, leading to fewer false alarms. Believe it or not, some criminals will wear bunny ears and a mask to try and fool the system, but the AI is smarter.

In future, security providers may use AI to assess whether premises are properly protected, drawing on local information and current set up to determine where a break-in may occur or detect vulnerabilities that criminals may exploit. We’ll be able use this information to keep premises more secure.

What’s the most exciting aspect of working at Corps?

Catching the bad guys! There’s nothing more rewarding when operating the security systems than being instrumental in seeing an intruder being handcuffed and detained. In my current role, I’m rarely monitoring the CCTV systems when most sites are armed, but I still get the same buzz when my operators tell me they have an incident, and they are liaising with the police and seeing an intruder detained.

Machine learning and AI is also very exciting to see. Cameras are learning from previous activations and adjusting accordingly. It likely won’t be long before we can upload images of criminals to a national database with facial recognition and cameras will pick them up in the street and send the location to a local constabulary to aid in their detainment before they even know they have been spotted.

Corps Monitoring is a division of Corps Security – the UK’s longest running security company. Corps Monitoring offer a range of technology solutions including CCTV Monitoring Services, CCTV Sensor Activated Monitoring, CCTV Live Surveillance, Fire Alarm Monitoring, Intruder Alarm Monitoring, Personal Protection Services, Key Holding, Call Centre Monitoring, Lone Worker Monitoring and more.

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Jonathan McBay

Meet The Team – Jonathan McBay

At Corps Monitoring, we aim to be the employer of choice in the security monitoring sector. Our remote monitoring team, based at our NSI Gold Cat II accredited Corps Monitoring Centre (CMC) in Glasgow, delivers round-the-clock security services to protect people, businesses, and their assets nationwide.

While advances in smart security technology are constantly evolving the industry, it is our people who ensure our expert security service delivery remains industry leading.

We sat down with Jonathan McBay, a CCTV operator who joined Corps Monitoring fresh out of college two years ago –

Tell us about your career at Corps so far?

In the two years since joining Corps, I have learned so much about the security industry and how the monitoring centre works. My current role as a CCTV operator is the starting point for everyone in the ARC. I work on one of the dayshift teams, which deals primarily with helping engineers and installers set up and test their systems, changing site details and handling general customer enquiries.

Why did you join the Corps Monitoring team?

I joined Corps Monitoring during the Covid pandemic. I had just finished college and couldn’t go to the university of my choice because they were only able to offer remote learning. I needed money, so I decided instead to go straight into working. Since security had always interested me when I found Corps Monitoring, I saw the potential. I quickly found that I enjoy the job and see a future here.

Why is remote monitoring important today and how is it evolving?

One of the most significant benefits of remote monitoring today is that it carries a low risk to security personnel. Having an operator in a remote secure control room is far safer than having a security officer stationed on a client site. As an industry, remote monitoring is constantly evolving; new and upgraded technology is being developed yearly, such as cameras with integrated AI that pick up and recognise threats and non-threats on sites and new alarm systems that work better than ever. Without a doubt, remote monitoring is the future of security.

How has Corps Monitoring changed in the last 5 years?

As a business, Corps Monitoring has advanced a lot in recent years. We’ve added more automated systems like Umbo, which filters false alarms to free up a lot of time for operators, helping them to focus on other aspects of their job. We’ve also expanded the team so much; we had only one operator and one engineering support on a day shift when I started. Now, we can have up to four operators working on a single shift.

What’s next for the remote monitoring industry?

The remote monitoring industry is poised for significant advancement and transformation very soon. As security technology keeps a rapid pace in its evolution, we’re anticipating several key developments and trends that will shape the future of remote monitoring. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are set to be further integrated. These technologies are already changing the game in remote monitoring by enhancing data analytics capabilities. 5G technology is also advancing, which will unlock more significant potential for the remote monitoring industry; with high-speed, low-latency connections, we’ll see seamless data transmission and the capability to facilitate monitoring over vast areas in real-time.

What’s the most exciting aspect of working at Corps?

Working at Corps Monitoring, there is real learning and professional development opportunity. There is always something new to learn about the job. The team dynamic is also exciting because you get to build relationships with colleagues with whom you spend a lot of time each day during a shift, and you grow together as a team.

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About Corps Monitoring

Corps Monitoring provides a range of electronic security solutions including CCTV monitoring, intruder and fire alarm monitoring, personal protection services and keyholding, as well as environmental monitoring, call centre management and lone worker monitoring.

Corps Monitoring is a division of Corps Security, the UK’s leading independent specialist security solutions provider. The Corps group is a certified social enterprise.

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