Recent changes in UK legislation make it mandatory for firms who provide security staff to ensure that personnel have the correct license for the role being undertaken.
To provide a platform for increased growth Shield Security Service based in South Wales were obliged to implement a Quality Management System incorporating the requirements of ISO9001:2008 and BS7499 Static Site Guarding and Mobile Patrol Services. This enabled Penarth Management to manage fast track certification to the Security Industry Association’s Approved Contractor Scheme which is has proved instrumental to the continuing success of the business.
"Without ISO9001 and the ACS (Approved Contractor Scheme) certification we would have found it extremely difficult to meet our target on business growth"
Terry Vincent, Managing Director, Shield Security Services, Neath.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) operates a voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS). Companies that achieve ACS accreditation benefit from inclusion in a Register of Approved Contractors and the authority to display the ACS logo which re-assures customers that they have selected a reputable security firm.
The achievement of ISO9001 and the relevant British Standard(s) can fast-track companies towards ACS. Some of the security standards are:
BS7499: Manned Security Services
- Lays down requirements for security company e.g. proper management structure, adequate insurance, proper procedures for employees (written contracts with terms and conditions, shift patterns, etc.)
- Lays down expected standards of conduct for employees
- Requires employees to carry photographic identity cards
- Says that employees should have a minimum of two days induction training plus other training (job/site specific, specialist, refresher) as required
- Lays down detailed procedures for control rooms and the checking, issuing and receipt of keys
BS7858: Security Screening of Individuals Employed in a Security Environment
Gives recommendations for the security screening of individuals to be employed in an environment where the security and safety of people, goods or property is a requirement of the employing organisation's operations and/or where such security screening is in the public interest.
It takes account of Private Security Industry Act 2001. The Act requires that any person engaged in licensable activities, as designated in the Act, be licensed in accordance with the Act. It is an offence to engage in licensable conduct when not in possession of the appropriate licence.
It introduces criminality checks if the activity undertaken is not licensable, requires organisations to combat identity theft and fraud, introduces credit reference checking, and addresses the increasing frequency with which employees change jobs.
BS7872: Operation of Cash-In-Transit Services
Gives general requirements for companies and employees as for BS7499.
Plus additional requirements for:
- training specific to cash-in-transit
- vehicles to be used for cash-in-transit
- control rooms
Penarth Management has experience of assisting companies to achieve these Standards. Contact us if you require assistance.
Do you need a copy of a Standard?
To purchase a hard copy of any BSI Standard simply complete our Order Form with your requirements. Alternatively, you can obtain a .pdf copy directly from BSI here.
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