Science Museum Group Security Services

Descriptions

The Science Museum Group (SMG) is conducting this preliminary market engagement exercise in relation to its security services requirements. The Science Museum Group comprises the Science Museum in London, the National Railway Museum in York, Locomotion in Shildon, the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester and the Science and Innovation Park in Wiltshire.   You can find out more about SMG here: https://www.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/about-us The current security contract is held as part of a Consortium with the V&A Museum and Natural History Museum which expires in March 2027. SMG has decided to leave the Consortium and proceed alone for the re-tendering of its security services in early 2026. The contract is expected to be for a duration of 3-5 years with the option of extending for up to an additional three years. The expected contract value is approximately £6m per year (ex. VAT). Service provision will be divided into multiple lots. Exact lot structures are to be agreed but they will be site-based, and it is expected that there will be three or possibly four lots. Bidders will be permitted to bid for one, multiple, or all lots and will need to work collaboratively with other security providers if multiple contracts are awarded. SMG requires the security provider(s) to provide services to include (but not limited to): • Access control: monitoring entry/exit points, preventing unauthorised access, and enforcing visitor/staff protocols; • Patrol duties: conduct scheduled patrols, with a focus on high-risk areas, ensuring compliance with security standards; • Incident response: respond promptly to alarms, emergencies, and security incidents, escalating in line with SMG procedures; • Event security: support exhibitions, VIP visits, and special events by managing crowd control, safeguarding assets, and ensuring compliance with event-specific risk assessments, participate in event briefings and adapt to dynamic requirements. • Reporting and documentation: accurately log patrols, incidents, and event-related observations using agreed systems to maintain transparency and consistency in reporting; • Emergency support: assist with fire evacuations and emergency procedures and participate in drills and readiness exercises; • Compliance and standards: adhere to SIA licensing requirements, cybersecurity requirements, SMG policies, and relevant legislation and maintain uniform standards and professional conduct; • Asset protection: safeguard collections and high-value items during normal operations and special activities (e.g. object moves, exhibitions).