IT security awareness training – our first line of defence

In today’s digital world, protecting our corporate and personal information and systems is crucial, because the threat is growing daily.

That’s why Q3 recently held an online IT security awareness seminar for all its senior people, to highlight the issues and provide guidance on measures to reduce the risk of individuals being compromised.

The course was delivered by Peter Stock of Stock Services, who act as consultants for Q3 and have helped the company achieve Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation. IT security awareness training empowers individuals to participate in this safeguard actively, minimising the risk of cyberattacks and data breaches.

Studies show that human error contributes to over 90% of cyberattacks. By raising awareness, individuals become more vigilant and less susceptible to manipulation. A security-aware workforce acts as the first line of defence, identifying suspicious activities and reporting them promptly, minimising damage. Unsurprisingly, many organisations now have regulations requiring employee training on data security and privacy because awareness programmes ensure compliance and mitigate legal risks.

Stock Services has put together an information pack on IT Security awareness, which draws on many sources and years of experience. This pack aims to increase awareness of IT security and serves as a guide and training tool, providing many tips on how organisations can protect themselves. You can access the pack here

Although the information pack targets businesses, it provides useful information to keep individuals safe online, both at home and at work.

The UK Government’s own STOP! Think Fraud campaign also has some useful guidance.

New technology cleans up in Jersey

Q3 Services in Jersey has partnered with Industrial Cleaning Equipment Ltd (ICE), to introduce a wide range of hi-tech cleaning equipment to the island, as part of a major, public sector, cleaning contract recently awarded to Q3.

In a significant three-year deal, ICE will be supplying back-pack vacuum cleaners, cordless floor cleaners and robotic vacuum cleaners and scrubber driers, which Q3 will deploy to support its cleaning teams across the new, multi-site, contract, mobilising this month.

Commenting on the first major implementation of robotic cleaning in the Channel Islands, Matthew Galvin, Q3 Operations Director, said, “This innovative approach, using cobotics so extensively is a step-change in the local market, allowing us to revolutionise our service delivery”.

Damien Hiles, Key Account Director of ICE said, “We are delighted to be working with Q3 and providing the most innovative cleaning equipment available on the market. Having a sole supplier provides Q3 with a stable source of high-quality cleaning equipment, fostering a long-term business relationship”.

A Phantas Unit, with (L to R) Matthew Galvin, Q3, Damien Hiles, ICE and Johnny Neto, Q3

Joseph Trodd – Apprentice Profile

In Apprenticeship Week, we are talking with another Q3 apprentice, Joseph Trodd. Joe is an apprentice Building Services Engineer based at the London HQ of one of our prestigious clients, Salesforce Inc, the market-leading CRM software company. He is currently on the 2nd year of his level 3 service and maintenance engineer apprenticeship.

What have you learnt so far from this apprenticeship?

I have learnt a great deal since beginning this apprenticeship in September 2022. So far, I have gained an understanding about the different services and systems found within buildings, such as ventilation, heating, water supply and electrical supply. I have also learnt about how building management systems and fire detection systems work.

What have you enjoyed about this apprenticeship?

I have really enjoyed the practical work in the apprenticeship and the problem-solving aspect of the job, which is hugely important. This has enabled me to work independently and given me confidence to make decisions on the job. Each day I learn something new! This apprenticeship has already given me a good overview of the different services needed within a building and as time goes on, I aim to specialise in a specific building service area.

What do you hope the apprenticeship will do for you?

I think the apprenticeship will open a lot of doors for me in the hard FM industry. I enjoy the technical side of the role, so I would like to work as an engineer before moving into a more specialist role or, with the support of my line manager and Q3, perhaps further my career into management. At this stage I am happy to be learning as much as possible.