Define what the system needs to do before choosing it.

CCTV and recording

Define coverage and image requirements around the actual task: observing an area, understanding an incident or supporting an investigation. Review camera selection, placement assumptions, recording architecture, bandwidth, storage and access to footage.

We also consider how the system will be operated. A technically capable system is of limited use if recordings cannot be found, exported or interpreted when needed.

Access control

Review who needs access, under which conditions and how permissions will be managed through staff changes, visitors and exceptional events. Assess integration requirements, administration, audit records and failure behaviour alongside the hardware proposal.

Where access systems interact with fire safety or escape arrangements, the design needs coordinated input from the responsible specialists.

Video analytics

Assess analytics against the specific event and operating environment. Agree representative test conditions, acceptable false-alert behaviour and the action an alert is expected to trigger.

We help separate a useful operational capability from a feature that performs well only in a demonstration.

Fire-detection design consultancy

Support the design and review of fire-detection and alarm systems within an agreed BS 5839 scope. The work draws on FIA fire-detection design training and considers the premises, design brief, relevant system category and coordination requirements.

For non-domestic premises, the current Part 1 reference is BS 5839-1:2025. Project-specific design must use the applicable standard and the agreed fire strategy; the website is not a substitute for that design work. BSI standard record.

Supplier and design reviews

Translate the requirement into questions suppliers can answer. We can review proposed equipment, system architecture, integration assumptions and acceptance tests, and identify gaps before they become installation or operating problems.

For technology manufacturers, we can also help assess product fit and UK market requirements. Mandarin capability and experience of Chinese technology supply chains provide additional context when sourcing or reviewing proposals.

Typical deliverables

• A requirements brief tied to the site or product purpose.
• Technical design comments and a record of unresolved assumptions.
• Supplier or product comparison against agreed criteria.
• Evaluation and acceptance-test requirements.
• Handover questions for the installer, operator and maintenance provider.

Scope of the service

We provide consulting, design and technical review. Installation, alarm response, commissioning and ongoing maintenance are arranged with the relevant delivery providers. The project scope identifies how our advice fits their responsibilities.