The International Professional Security Association (IPSA) has launched a survey to understand the true value of the Security Industry Authority’s (SIA) Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).
The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is a voluntary scheme managed by the SIA as part of the UK security industry regulator’s remit 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, typically guarding companies.
As a security industry association, IPSA is often asked by its members, the benefits of the Approved Contractor Scheme, from a company and an individual viewpoint. The association says that it supports the drive to raise performance standards and agrees that the scheme has ensured higher compliance across those companies that have embraced it. However, a number of IPSA members have challenged the effectiveness of the voluntary scheme in ensuring the benefits and standards for the front line.
While the ACS has been adopted by many security companies, and typically around 850 firms are approved, IPSA wants to find out what the scheme means for the front-line employees. Do they benefit and if so, how? Do front-line employees see / feel the value of being part of an ACS certified company?
Una Riley, pictured, CEO of IPSA said: “Your views are important. I would encourage you take part in the survey so that we can get a wide range of opinions that represent the sector’s views on changes security companies and professionals feel should be implemented.
“We also ask that you share the survey with your peers, partners and colleagues to support our vision of achieving the best spectrum of responses for all our benefits.”
You can take the 15-minute survey here. It is open to everyone and IPSA will not only share the findings with the SIA and its members but also make them available to the rest of the industry.”
You can take the 15-minute survey here. It is open to everyone. IPSA adds that it will share the findings with the SIA and its members and make them available to the rest of the industry.
