In response to public criticism the government has regulated the private security industry.
The 2001 Private Security Industry Act required the SIA to establish a "system of inspection for providers of security services, under which those organizations who satisfactorily meet the agreed standards may be registered as approved, and may advertise themselves as such."
From 20th March 2006 Licenses or Approved Contractor Certificates were legally required for most security companies and staff. Failure to comply is a criminal offence. Without a License or Approved Contractor Certificate it will be illegal to offer or supply many security services.
The SIA Approved Contractor Scheme is a process intended to offer companies the opportunity to both simplify their licensing and to save money. The ACS process demonstrates that a company is competent, well-managed and able to deliver a quality service. BSI is able to verify that a company has reached the required standard. Full details of the scheme can be obtained from the SIA.
The Process
BSI offers two routes to suit different situations - Fast Track or Standard. Both routes are managed and defined by the SIA and verified by BSI, ensuring that all Approved Contractors achieve the same high standards. (The Fast Track route is available to those companies holding existing accredited ISO 9001: 2000 certificates covering their security service provision).
Standard Route
The standard route to becoming a member of the Approved Contractors scheme is as follows:
- Firstly the company needs to register with the SIA via the SIA web site
- Obtain a 'Self Assessment Workbook' from the SIA
- Record both scores and relevant evidence in the Self Assessment Workbook
- Ensure the stipulated requirements of the 'Self Assessment Workbook' and ACS Standard are met
- Complete and be able to demonstrate both scores and required evidence using the SIA's online Achievement Record process
- Finally, BSI will verify the application by conducting an assessment of the applicant’s organization and workbook results before making a recommendation to the SIA
Fast track
Fast track approval by SIA will be provided for companies with current ISO 9001: 2000 certification from BSI (or another UKAS accredited certification body).
Companies will need:
- Full ISO 9001:2000 certification issued by a UKAS accredited certification body
- Compliance to relevant British Standards for the security industry verified by an accredited certification body
- Completion of the ACS 'Self Assessment Workbook' showing the required score
- ACS assessment visit with an SIA approved certification body scheduled and confirmed
- A statement percentage of your licensable staff who hold a SIA licence being above the designated level – available at all times
Next steps
For more information on how BSI can help with your SIA ACS registration please contact us on telephone number: (+44) (0)845 080 9000 or email: infosec.enquiries@bsigroup.com.
