The Benefits of Mobile Patrol Security for Large Properties Security is a top priority for businesses managing large properties, whether it’s a …
What is the ACS Scheme? Process & Importance in 2024
The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is managed by the SIA to uplift the standards within the private security industry and to pave the way for new opportunities. It is a voluntary scheme that has numerous benefits for both parties as it enhances the marketing of the security company and helps the SIA to monitor, maintain and improve the security standards in the best interest of the public for their safety.
It is applied to the companies providing the following services:
- Keyholding
- Security Guarding
- Close Protection
- Door Supervision
- CCTV Company
Furthermore, the company needs to be solely based in the UK and their time of operation and licensed active workers are also taken into consideration.
Process of ACS Accreditation
The process includes the following steps for the ACS accreditation which have to be followed in the same order so it ultimately leads to the security company getting ACS which might also serve as a badge of confidence.
- The initial stage requires you to assess itself whether it is meeting all the criteria by using the ACS Self-Assessment Workbook.
- After making sure you are meeting their requirements the next step is to contact the SIA to initiate the application through their website.
- Then, you must schedule a SSAIB visit after getting a go ahead from the SIA. A copy of the ACS Self-Assessment Workbook scores has to be submitted prior to the visit which needs to be validated.
- The SIA will view the report of the SSAIB visit and then reach their final decision.
Importance of ACS Scheme
The ACS scheme offers a lot of various benefits and those advantages are not only limited to the reputation of the security company in the security market. The importance of the benefits that you can achieve are as follows:
I. Increasing professional expertise:
By setting a precedent for the highest standards of quality and professionalism the ACS by SIA helps in regulating the authorized contractors establishing their dedication in numerous areas such as employee growth and development, customer support and service, and effective and efficient operations owing to its rigorous evaluation process.
II. Quality assurance:
Regular quality assurance inspections are conducted on security companies that hold an Approved Contractor Scheme designation which reassures their clients that the contractors they are hiring to safeguard their assets have successfully gone through the quality assessments required to function. In addition the clients can also be certain of the fact that their expectations will be sustained throughout their partnership.
Also Read: Understanding CCTV Laws in UK in 2024
III. Building customer trust:
Having the ACS accreditation is crucial in building customer trust as it is a benchmark for reliability and competence within the vast market of security providers that are reputable as well as efficient in their services.
IV. Continuous improvement & maintenance:
Going through the demanding nature of the ACS and the visitations on the SSAIB is a tough job but it helps in the continuous improvement as it identifies the areas that are lacking progress. Furthermore, it also helps in sustaining the already highly established standards too.
V. Supporting regulatory compliance:
Trusting a security company with an ACS accreditation means that their adherence to all applicable legal and regulatory standards is guaranteed. This not only protects the client but also the society at large since the rules involve licensing, employment practices and data protection.
VI. Competitive advantage:
The ACS certification clearly distinguishes the security companies from their non approved competitors which provides them with better business opportunities setting them apart from their business rivals.
VII. Encouraging ethical practices:
Trusting a security company with an ACS accreditation means that their adherence to all applicable legal and regulatory standards is guaranteed. This not only protects the client but also the society at large since the rules involve licensing, employment practices and data protection.
VIII. Contribution to public safety
As ACS ensures and maintains high standards of security provision it is essential for protecting the general public and their overall safety. The effectiveness of such security practices not only prevents crime but also creates a safe space for businesses to thrive in cooperation with the community.
Choose an SIA approved security company
When choosing a security company whether it is to safeguard your assets or to provide you personal security during high risk situations involving threats you should always choose one with the ACS accreditation as they are bound to be more professional, reliable and efficient in their services which could benefit your business exceptionally.
If you’re looking for an SIA-approved security company in the North West, United Kingdom then you can consider Agile Guarding Services Limited. We have helped over 100 clients in the UK with our bespoke security services. You can book a free security consultation by filing out our quotation form.
Read our blogs
How to Become a Security Guard in UK? Security guards in the UK play a crucial role in maintaining the security and …
Retail Store Security Best Practices to Minimize Shoplifting and Theft Retail stores serve as a crucial aspect of community spaces that are …
Benefits of Manned Guarding Services for Commercial Properties For most businesses, the priority happens to be the safety and security of their …