Conrad hotel redesigned security officers’ job scope so they blend in, look friendly
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Mr Mohamed Thasim, director of safety and security at Conrad Centennial Singapore, with the Outstanding Cluster Award that the hotel received at the National Safety and Security Watch Group Award Ceremony.
ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO
SINGAPORE – Some hospitals here use drones for surveillance, blast protection film on glass facades in crowded areas, and video analytics to monitor suspicious individuals or objects to enhance safety and security against potential terror attacks.
Some hotels, such as Conrad Centennial Singapore, have redesigned their security officers’ job scope to make them friendlier and for them to blend in with everyone else, so that “guests do not know they’re security officers”.
For instance, some security officers perform front-line work at the concierge and the front desk.
A total of 191 members of the Safety and Security Watch Group (SSWG) received various awards on Dec 27 for their contributions and achievements at the National Safety and Security Watch Group Award Ceremony.
Ms Sun Xueling, Minister of State for Home Affairs and Social and Family Development, thanked the SSWG members for their efforts in keeping Singapore safe.
“Through regular engagements with the police and SCDF, our SSWG members are updated on the latest threats and protective measures. This strong community partnership is vital as it strengthens our collective ability to respond to crises confidently and effectively,” she said at the event, held at Orchard Hotel.
The ceremony was organised by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
There were five types of awards given out, including the Outstanding Cluster Award, Outstanding Individual Award and Commendation Award.
A recipient of the Outstanding Individual Award was JurongHealth Campus, which comprises Ng Teng Fong General Hospital (NTFGH) and Jurong Community Hospital (JCH).
Mr Ng Kian Swan, chief operating officer for NTFGH and JCH, and for group security at the National University Health System (NUHS), said it is a delicate balance to maintain a welcoming environment for visitors while keeping them safe and secure.
“It is a complex task but we have put in place security provisions within the infrastructure, leveraging technologies like video analytics, operational control, security (and) frequent patrols,” he said.
“But the important thing is also to engage our clinical staff – doctors and nurses. When they are engaged, then they realise actually security is everybody’s responsibility.”
He shared that NUHS has started using drones to conduct area surveillance. Previously, drones were used to inspect the hospital’s building facade.
“The drones provide very good, clear footage and can actually identify potential threats, and this is very good and applicable to big porous hospitals like Alexandra Hospital,” added Mr Ng.
“We are now training more of our security colleagues to learn how to fly the drones, especially when there’s heightened security.”
Mr Ng Kian Swan said it is a delicate balance to maintain a welcoming environment for visitors while keeping them safe and secure.
Singapore’s safety and security should not be taken for granted, as the terror threat remains real, said Ms Sun. “The arrest of a 17-year-old self-radicalised Singaporean youth in August served as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat which can happen any time, anywhere,” she said.
Inspired by the propaganda of militant group ISIS, which has glorified suicide knife attacks, the teen decided to conduct an attack near Tampines West Community Club but was arrested weeks before he could carry out his plan.
When such incidents are made public, staff at Conrad Centennial Singapore are reminded to be vigilant, said Mr Mohamed Thasim, director of safety and security at the hotel, an Outstanding Cluster Award recipient.
He said the award recognises the hotel staff’s efforts in maintaining safety and security for its guests, property and staff.
“It’s not 100 per cent that you can spot someone with an ulterior motive. But there are telltale signs we look out for. Our training and drills with the help of SPF ensure our staff keep up with all these threats,” he added.
Conrad staff also take part in SCDF’s Responders Plus Programme, which provides training in life-saving skills, such as basic firefighting, first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Sherrin Chua said the threat of terrorism is always evolving.
AC Chua, director of the police’s community partnership department, said: “I am heartened to see the active participation and collaborative efforts from our SSWG members. Together, we can make a safer Singapore.”
SSWG was launched in 2003 as an initiative for the police to work with building owners to secure their premises against potential terrorist attacks. At present, SSWG has 1,800 members.
