By establishing a new industry benchmark, The Approved Contractors Scheme (ACS), the Security Industry Authority (SIA) has enabled companies, regardless of size, to achieve a quality accreditation. Beyond Basics provides a consultancy service to assist companies in achieving ACS Standard through the Standard Route. Whilst one of the key elements of the ACS is the ability to deploy unlicensed yet trained labour, the ACS is more than a standard; it is a tool for industry self-improvement. This incorporates current British Security Industry standards and processes considered to represent managerial Best Practice. The industry knowledge and experience of the Beyond Basics team ensures that out clients are given the latest and best advice available. All our consultants are trained to ACS assessor level which means that they clearly understand what is expected during an assessment. Beyond Basics was consulted extensively by the SIA during the Approved Contractors Scheme consultation process.

How does Approved Contractors Scheme accreditation work?

Companies who wish to become Approved Contractors can choose one of three routes to achieve Approved Contractor Status:

Passport

Fast Track and Standard

The Passport route which will be introduced at a later date is designed for use in independent SIA-approved inspection schemes. The Standard and Fast Track routes towards achieving Approved Contractor Status require the completion of the ACS Self Assessment Workbook. Our trained and experienced consultants are able to guide companies through completing the ACS Self Assessment Workbook in preparation for inspection by one of the SIA accredited assessing bodies.

The nine areas security guarding businesses will be measured against are:

Strategy

Process

Commercial Relationship Management

Financial Management

Resources

Corporate social responsibility

Results.

In addition to the completion of the ACS Self Assessment Workbook there are other eligibility requirements for Approved Contractor Status which include:

SIA licensed staff The required percentage of deployed staff must hold an appropriate SIA licence.

Fit and proper management All directors of the company are considered 'fit and proper persons' and are not currently disqualified from being directors. Known allegations against directors may need to be investigated before proceeding.

Prior accreditations Any prior accreditations required for Fast Track or Passport has the appropriate scope for the application and have been awarded by a recognised (e.g. UKAS-accredited) body.

Self-assessment The Self Assessment Workbook (if applicable) has been completed properly with justification provided for the self-assessment.