Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS)

If the private security industry is to continue to protect the public, then it’s important that the industry’s standards are both maintained and improved.

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However, in order for that to happen, then there has to be some way of measuring standards. One such way that this happens is via the Security Industry Authority (SIA), a non-departmental public body that’s in charge of monitoring and regulating the private security industry within the UK. They set up the Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), which we’ll take a close look at in this blog, including looking at what it is, who it applies to, and why your business needs it.

What Is the Approved Contractor Scheme?

The Approved Contractor Scheme was created by the Security Industry Authority as a way to elevate standards within the industry. It’s a voluntary scheme, so companies don’t need to get accreditation, but it’s in their interests to do so. It can help to improve a company’s marketing, and, more broadly, it just shows a commitment to the industry in which the company works. Companies can become ACS certified following a period of inspection from external bodies, which will determine whether they’re meeting the standards as established by the SIA.

Who It Applies To?

To be eligible to become ACS certified, then you’ll need to work within the field. The following types of company are included:

  • Keyholding
  • Security Guarding
  • Close Protection
  • Door Supervision
  • Transporting valuables/cash
  • CCTV Companies

There are also some other criteria that the company must meet. For example, they must operate solely within the UK and have at least one minimum contract for security services. They must also have been in operation for more than twelve months and have at least two workers with a license to carry out their duties.

Why You Need ACS Certification

You don’t need to be part of the Approved Contractor Scheme to work in the private security industry, but it is recommended that you are because of the many benefits that it could bring to your business. For starters, it can function as a badge of quality for your business. If you’ve gone through the process of receiving the ACS accreditation for your business, then potential customers will know that you’re a legitimate and respectable operation. Ultimately, it improves the levels of trust and confidence that people have in your business!

It’s also a useful marketing tool. There’s no shortage of private security companies to choose from. When it comes to deciding which one to work with, people look for factors that help to set a company apart. Taking part in ACS accreditation will do just that. There could also be additional business operations, as having the Approved Contractor Scheme badge means you can subcontract jobs from larger firms.

If you’re ready to begin your journey towards getting your company ACS accredited, then be sure to get in touch with us here at JVR Compliance Consultants & Auditors. We’re recognised as one of the most accomplished and expert compliance advisory consultancies in the UK. You’re in safe hands when you work with us.

Frequently Asked Questions from our Customers

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JVR Consultancy was formed in the year 2008 and their head office is based in Windsor and Maidenhead. We noticed that there was a gap in the market, for companies who work in the construction, rail, utilities, oil and gas sector who were not fully supported in the way that they could be when it came to industry compliance and certification. That is why our highly experienced team of compliance consultants can serve these sectors by providing over 135 years of combined experience with all compliance needs. In short, you won’t find anyone else who cares as much, or who tries as hard as we do.

Speak with one of our experienced consultants. At JVR, we know that time is precious, and you want the answers to your questions quickly, especially during an audit!. Once we speak with you for the first time over the phone, we need around 10 minutes to fully evaluate which accreditation you need support with and a brief introduction into you and your company.

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