The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is the mechanism by which the Security Industry Authority (SIA) implements the requirements of the Security Industry Act 2001. The purpose of the ACS is to “raise performance standards and to assist the private security industry in developing new opportunities”. It aims to achieve this by putting in place a system of inspection for providers of security services. Certification Bodies, like SSAIB, will undertake the inspection activities on behalf of the SIA to ensure that companies who achieve the required standard can be registered as approved.

The following sectors are covered by the Approved Contractor Scheme:

• Door Supervisors (in-house and contractors)
• Security contractors
• Cash & Valuables in transit contractors
• Public Space Surveillance CCTV Contractors
• Close protection contractors
• Keyholding contractors

Licensing in the above areas became effective across England and Wales on 20th March 2006.

Routes to Approval
The Application Process
The Benefits of ACS Status

Routes to Approval

Three possible routes to approval have been identified – Standard, Fast Track and Passport - but only two of these are currently available:

The Application Process

1. Register with the SIA
   
   Regardless of the route (Standard or Fast Track) chosen, companies must first register an interest with the SIA. This is done by visiting the SIA website and following the ACS link. Organisations have to register in order to gain access to the Self Assessment Workbook (SAW) and Workbook Guide.
    
2. Complete the Self-Assessment Workbook (SAW)
   
   Both the Standard and Fast Track routes require applicants to complete all or part of the Self-Assessment Workbook. There is no obligation or fee required when downloading the workbook. However you do need to have access to Adobe Acrobat Reader to view these documents. This programme can also be downloaded from the SIA website.
    
   The SAW aims to help organisations wishing to become SIA Approved to prepare for a verification visit from an SIA Assessor like SSAIB.
    
   Completing the workbook will help you to determine whether you meet the Approved Contractor Scheme Standard prior to making a formal application.
    
   The workbook has nine criteria and a number of sub-criteria which must be satisfied. Completing the details required for each of the sub-criteria enables you to detail the range of activities you undertake; to evaluate the way in which you approach these activities and to determine how you know if your actions are successful. You will be required to provide evidence in support of your claims. The benchmark indicators in the workbook allow you to place your organisation’s performance against the Approved Contractor Scheme standard; the benchmark is indicated by a red arrow.
    
   You can complete the SAW in any order over a timescale to suit yourself. However, you must complete all sections of the workbook prior to submitting it to the SIA.
    
3. Submitting an Application

   Once you are satisfied that you have completed the Self-Assessment Workbook satisfactorily submit it to SIA on-line via the SIA website. An ACS Application Form should be requested via the website and submitted, along with the relevant fees, to the SIA. You will need to specify on the Application Form which Assessing Body you propose to use, simply specify SSAIB.

4. SSAIB Verification Services
   Once you have submitted your Self Assessment Record and your Application Form to SIA you can apply to SSAIB for a verification visit. The purpose of the verification visit is to validate that compliance with the ACS Standard has been achieved or to agree an action plan to help you to achieve the required standard in those areas where the organisation requires further improvement. SSAIB can undertake verification visits for companies applying via either the Fast Track or Standard route.

   To obtain an estimate for verification services, complete the Verification Enquiry Form on this website, providing the information requested. Alternatively you can email ACS@ssaib.org or contact SSAIB directly on 0191 296 3242.

   The SIA application fee does not cover the cost of the verification visit. The fee for the verification visit is payable directly to the ACS assessing body, that is SSAIB.

   Once the self assessment score has been validated by the ACS assessing body, a recommendation will be sent to SIA who will make the final decision.

If you have any question or queries regarding this scheme or the process of application, complete a ACS verification Form or contact SSAIB directly on 0191 296 3242

Download an SIA ACS information leaflet (SSAIB publication)

Download an SIA ACS information leaflet (SIA publication)