At OC Services, security is more than just protecting property; it's about securing a sustainable future for our community and the planet. Working within the rapidly evolving security industry, we recognise the impact of constantly upgrading and replacing technology like CCTV cameras, alarms, and access control systems. That's why we're deeply committed to environmentally responsible practices and corporate social responsibility (CSR), ensuring our business aligns with the values of our customers, employees, and the wider community.

Going Green: Our Comprehensive Approach

Our commitment to sustainability is woven into every aspect of our operations. We believe in minimising our ecological footprint through a comprehensive approach:

• Sustainable Purchasing: We prioritise incorporating sustainable development and environmental stewardship considerations into our purchasing processes, from materials to packaging.
• Waste Minimisation and Management: From dismantling old locks and security systems to general office practices, we meticulously segregate waste for optimal recycling. We work with suppliers who embrace sustainable packaging to minimise waste at its source.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: We constantly evaluate our operations to identify opportunities for improvement and implement measures that reduce our environmental impact.
• Legal Compliance and Supplier Engagement: We adhere to all mandatory legal regulations relating to environmental responsibility and actively encourage our suppliers to do the same.
• Ethical Timber Sourcing: We are dedicated to sourcing timber and timber products ethically and sustainably. We only purchase timber materials that meet EU Timber Regulation standards and possess a Chain of Custody certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).
• Responsible Waste Disposal: We prioritise reuse, recycling, and safe disposal of unavoidable waste.
• Emissions Monitoring and Reduction: We diligently monitor and measure significant emissions and discharges to minimize their environmental impact and continually enhance our environmental performance.

Recycling in Action: Our Key Waste Streams

We actively recycle a wide range of materials, partnering with reputable organisations like Guildford Metal Merchants and Biffa Waste Management. Our key waste streams and their management methods include:

• Metals: Brass, Steel, Cable, and 12v Batteries are all 100% recycled through our local Metal Merchants.

  • Household batteries: Recycled through Valpak Retail Services

• Wood: Reused/Recycled, processed into kindling.

• Cardboard: Reused/Recycled through Biffa Waste Management
• Paper: Reused/Recycled through Biffa Waste Management
• Plastics: Reused/Recycled through Biffa Waste Management
• Aluminium: Reused/Recycled through Biffa Waste Management
• Food Waste: Recycled through Biffa Waste Management
• General Waste (such as oily rags or contaminated items): Disposed of in Landfill by Biffa Waste Management,
• Other: We also have waste contracts in place with Bisley Rubbish Clearance and Fowles Skip Hire.

Greener Transportation: Reducing Our Carbon Footprint

We promote greener transportation practices among our staff and engineers, encouraging:

• Walking, cycling, carpooling, and public transportation for office staff commuting.
• Incentivising engineers to utilise trains, public transport, or carpooling for job assignments.
• Advocating for the use of environmentally friendly fuels in personal vehicles.
• Selecting company vehicles for their energy efficiency.

WEEE Compliance: Handling Electronic Waste Responsibly

As a distributor of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), OC Services adheres to all relevant environmental regulations under Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations:

• Waste Carrier Licence: CBDL572900
• EEE Waste Categories: Our company handles EEE waste under categories 4 (Consumer equipment security systems) and 9 (Monitoring and control equipment fire alarm systems).
• Distributor Take-back Scheme: We participate in the Distributor Take-back Scheme (DTS), registration number 700665, operated by Valpak Retail WEEE Services, allowing us to fulfil our obligations without offering in-store take-back.

How Our Disposal Service Works:

While we don't offer a general take-back programme. As part of our planned and paid-for services (detailed in quotations and contracts), we will decommission and dispose of any electrical equipment being replaced or removed. When upgrading a customer's security system, we:

• Decommission and Remove: Disconnect and remove old equipment, preparing it safely for disposal as part of a quotation.
• Labour Fee: The labour fee for the decommission and removal, is clearly stated in the quotation and covers the time and expertise required for the safe handling of the old equipment.
• Complimentary Disposal: The actual disposal of the removed equipment is included in the labour fee, guaranteeing the components are recycled and disposed of responsibly.

Ethical Business Practices:

We diligently screen our suppliers to verify their adherence to the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and the Bribery Act 2010, ensuring ethical and transparent practices throughout our supply chain

Community Commitment: Investing in a Thriving Future

At OC Services, we are committed to improving and growing our community. Our dedication is evident in the numerous initiatives we have undertaken over the years:

• We have sponsored local football clubs, fuelling the passion for sports and promoting a sense of unity within our community.

• Recognising the importance of safety, we have provided free CCTV installation to a local primary school, ensuring the well-being of the young minds it nurtures.

• Furthermore, we have extended our support to a local nurture farm by installing a free intruder alarm system, safeguarding the precious animals it shelters.

• Our commitment to education is dependable, as demonstrated by our sponsorship of a local nursery school event and our generous contributions of raffle prizes to schools.

• We vigilantly maintain the alarm systems of our local rowing club and an infant and primary school, ensuring the safety of those within their walls.

• Our support extends beyond financial contributions, as our staff actively participates in volunteering days, dedicating their time to worthy causes in our community.

• By employing local individuals, we not only provide employment opportunities but also strengthen the bonds that unite us.

• Each lock we change or Intruder Alarm, CCTV, and Access Control System we install is meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients, ensuring their security and peace of mind.
  

We firmly believe that our work ethic, support for local businesses, and dedication to finding solutions for every security challenge make a difference in our community every single day.

At OC Services, we're committed to protecting your property and creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Give Your Old Batteries a New Life at the OC Services Recycling Point