In Japan, nearly 40% of office workers work from home at least once a week, particularly those in IT or consultancy, according to a 2023 survey by Nikkei.
When a global IT company decided to lease out four floors of their Tokyo office last year in response to post-Covid changes in work habits, G4S approached them to provide security services. G4S had already been managing access control and reception services at the eight-story building for the past decade.
Upgraded Access Control Systems
Eiki Hata, Representative Director of G4S Secure Solutions Japan, explained that managing security for a multi-tenant building differs significantly from a single-occupancy structure. With more people coming and going and different security requirements from each company, more sophisticated and robust protocols are needed.
Upon being awarded the new contract, G4S doubled its onsite staff and implemented customized access control systems for each tenant. Some tenants preferred to retain their existing passes, which G4S accommodated as part of its flexible security solutions.
Health and Safety Measures
G4S security officers are trained in health and safety protocols, including administering CPR and using defibrillators. Health and safety account for 40% of G4S’s responsibilities, which also include assisting during natural disasters like earthquakes or floods. In such situations, G4S teams inspect building damage alongside facilities teams and provide aid to local residents who may seek refuge in the building. Regular evacuation drills are conducted for all tenants as part of safety preparedness.
The officers also ensure strict security protocols are followed, such as verifying IDs at reception and registering all guests in line with the company’s global standards.
Emphasis on Customer Service
Although Japan is considered one of the safest countries globally, where lost wallets are often returned with contents intact, the low awareness of security risks poses a challenge. G4S officers must often explain the importance of security protocols to tenants. With multiple tenants, enforcing consistent operational rules is more complex than in single-occupancy buildings, making customer service a crucial aspect of their role.
Flexibility and Adaptability
G4S provides security services to a wide range of multinational companies in Japan, across sectors. In addition to standard security services, G4S also offers close protection and risk consulting. One of G4S’s competitive advantages is its ability to recruit English-speaking staff, a key requirement for many multinationals in Japan, where only about 5% of the population speaks English.
Another benefit G4S offers is its ability to leverage global expertise. G4S collaborates with its international branches to share experiences and provide seamless security solutions tailored to client needs.
As one of the smallest operations within G4S, the Japan division is focused on growth while maintaining flexibility and adaptability to meet client demands, even when tasks are complex or unconventional.
