Thorne Fire & Security operates in a sector where trust, precision and reliability are absolutely essential. As a growing family-run business delivering specialist fire and security systems for clients across the UK, the company needs operational systems behind the scenes that are every bit as dependable as the solutions it installs on site.
We spoke with Hadrian Thorne, Managing Director at Thorne Fire & Security to understand the document and data challenges that come with working in a security-focused environment, and how stronger print and document management can help protect information while supporting growth.
Q: Hadrian, for anyone who doesn’t know Thorne Fire & Security, can you tell us a bit about the business?
Thorne Fire & Security is a family-run company based in Burnley, providing a wide range of fire and security solutions. That includes CCTV, fire alarms, access control, intruder alarms and remote monitoring, and we work with a broad range of clients across different sectors.
Q: Because you work in security, does that make data protection an even bigger priority?
Yes, absolutely. We’re dealing with sensitive client information, technical system details and internal records, so we have to take security seriously at every level. It’s not just about protecting physical premises for clients; it’s also about making sure our own information handling is secure and well managed.
Q: Are networked devices like copiers part of that risk picture now?
They are, and I think that’s something a lot of businesses still underestimate. Modern copiers are connected devices, so if they’re not properly configured or kept up to date, they can become a weak point in the network. That means security has to extend beyond laptops and servers to include office equipment as well.
Q: How important is secure access to printed and scanned information?
It’s very important. If you’re dealing with client records, contracts or security specifications, you can’t afford for documents to be left sitting in trays or accessible to the wrong person. Features like user authentication and secure printing make a real difference in controlling who can access what.
Q: Does compliance come into it as well?
Yes, definitely. Businesses like ours still need to meet data protection requirements, and that means having proper systems and controls in place. If you get that wrong, it can damage trust very quickly, and trust is everything in this sector.
Q: What about version control – is that a practical challenge too?
Very much so. We work with technical drawings, site-specific details and client documentation, so it’s important that everyone is using the latest version. If the wrong document is used, it can create confusion, slow projects down, and potentially lead to costly mistakes.
Q: Are paper-based systems still a limitation for growing businesses?
They can be. Paper has its place, but if too much information is tied up in physical files, it becomes harder to search, retrieve and manage properly. As a business grows, that lack of visibility can start to hold you back.
Q: How can Evolve Document Solutions help with those kinds of issues?
They can help by providing more secure and up-to-date devices, along with document management systems that centralise information and make it easier to control access. That combination improves both security and day-to-day efficiency, which is important when you’re trying to run projects smoothly.
Q: Is managed print support also useful from an operational point of view?
Yes, very much so. Proactive maintenance, automated toner supply and responsive support all help reduce downtime. When you’re dealing with client projects and technical paperwork, you need your equipment to be dependable rather than another thing to worry about.
Q: Does moving towards digital document management bring wider benefits as well?
It does. It makes records more searchable, helps protect important information and gives the team a clearer way of managing documents across the business. That’s especially useful when you’re growing and need stronger systems to support that growth.
Q: Looking at the bigger picture, what does better document and print management allow Thorne Fire & Security to do?
It helps us operate in a way that matches the standards we’re trying to deliver to clients. Better control, stronger security and more reliable systems all support a more professional and efficient business, which is essential when trust and reputation matter so much.
For a specialist business like Thorne Fire & Security, secure and reliable internal systems are a vital part of delivering excellent service. With the right document management, modern equipment and dependable support in place, the company can protect sensitive information, improve efficiency and continue growing with confidence.
Contact Evolve if you would like to discover how we can help your business meet operational challenges.