The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is part of SIA, the regulatory body for the UK security industry. The Private Security Industry Act (2001) requires the SIA to establish a platform which allows for the inspection of security services to ensure that the agreed upon standards within the industry are being met, and if fulfilled, the organisations can then advertise themselves as being an Approved Contractor. The main function of the ACS is to raise and maintain the standards and to support the private security industry in increasing and developing new opportunities.
What are the benefits of being ACS Accredited?
This accreditation highlights to clients that the service being provided is of a high quality, and abides by the various commitments that demands specific qualifications for approval. It shows clients the following:
1. SIA Licensed Staff
In order to qualify, at least 85% of security staff within the company must be SIA licensed at all times, whether they are actively working or not. This assures those using the security company that they are providing highly trained staff, which is crucial within this industry.
2. Organisation and Management Standards
Organisations and the management team being assessed for qualifying must be deemed 'fit and proper', if various negative situations have involved the organisation or management, this would deem it unlikely that such practise would be approved by SIA, and would have to undergo investigation. Therefore if ACS Accredited your security company has been deemed a reputable service, which is highly sought after.
3. Licensed Directors
To be ACS accredited the directors of the company must also have a SIA license, or have made considerable effort to attain one. This shows that many elements of the business structure have a full understanding of the SIA values and standards.
4. Good Reputation
It is difficult to obtain an ACS accreditation if there have been a large number of concerns or complaints against the organisation or management team. Thus an ACS title secures the good reputation of the company.
WINNS Services prides itself on providing services that exceeds expectations. We are ACS accredited which secures our commitment to high quality and professional services. If you have any questions regarding our services, please don't hesitate to give us a call on 01702 719100 or email us at info@winnsservices.co.uk.
