Checkpoint Systems Retail Monitoring Center Awarded Five Diamond Certification

Checkpoint Systems, a supplier of shrink management, merchandise visibility and apparel labeling solutions for the retail industry and its supply chain, has received the Central Station Alarm Association's (CSAA) Five Diamond Certification designation for its retail monitoring center.


Checkpoint's retail monitoring center provides retailers across the nation with around-the-clock alarm dispatching, video verification, and related call center services by certified, experienced operators. The center is the only one in the nation that is dedicated exclusively to the needs of retailers, and helps them address tens of thousands of calls every month.


"Our retail customers have to manage large chains of stores across the country," explained Per Levin, Checkpoint's Worldwide President, Shrink Management Solutions. "Incorporating decades of expertise in helping retailers fight shrink, Checkpoint's retail monitoring center is focused on their specific needs. For instance, the center not only notifies staff when alarm conditions occur but can also highlight operational exceptions, such as the unauthorized opening of a receiving dock door, enabling staff to take pre-emptive actions to avoid loss. What makes our service unique is our deep understanding of large-scale retail operations."


Reflecting this understanding, the retail monitoring center supervises store openings and closings, helping to prevent employee theft, as well as ensure adherence to schedules. The center can provide notifications for a variety of operational exceptions; for instance, if the power to a store's Electronic Article Surveillance or digital video surveillance systems is switched off. Of course in the event of fire or burglar alarm, the service dispatches authorities and notifies store management immediately.


Alerts are provided via phone, text message and e-mail. Checkpoint's solution offers 24-hour technical support, alarm training programs, and video verification and enterprise network systems. In addition to helping to prevent theft, using such a comprehensive service can help retailers address security and policy breaches before they grow into larger problems.


The CSAA Five Diamond certification testifies that 100 percent of Checkpoint's retail monitoring station operators have achieved proficiency and certification by passing the CSAA central station on-line operator training course. These courses cover virtually all phases of central station communications with customers, law enforcement, fire and emergency services communications centers. This critical area of communications is the life-saving link between business properties and law enforcement, fire and emergency services in local areas.


"There are approximately 2,700 central stations in the U.S. which communicate and interact with these agencies," said Steve Doyle, Executive VP/CEO for CSAA. "Of this group, fewer than 150 have achieved the "Five Diamond Certified" status. Ensuring that all personnel have successfully completed the rigorous courses is a true testament to the quality of Checkpoint's solution and the service it provides to its customer base, which is unique in that it is dedicated to meeting the precise needs of retailers nationwide."


To achieve the Five Diamond Certification, each and every operator must have passed the course and demonstrated:
* Proficiency in alarm verification, which helps reduce false alarms and the associated fees that are levied in many jurisdictions
* Proficiency in communications with the Public Service Answer Points, such as Emergency 911 centers
* Knowledge of electronic communications equipment, including radio
* An understanding of the codes and standards of such organizations as Underwriters Laboratories, Factory Mutual, the National Fire Protection Association and others
* Proficiency in the area of emergency preparedness under a wide scenario of possibilities