According to the Security Industry Authority’s latest figures for 2011-2012, there has been an average improvement of 11 points across all Approved Contractors.
Every year Approved Contractors, except for those on certain ‘Passport’ schemes, must assess their performance against 89 individual indicators of achievement. At assessment, an independent assessor verifies these scores.
Andrew Shephard, assistant director of the Approved Contractor Scheme at the SIA, commented: “We now demand more from Approved Contractors.”
Some examples of how the Regulator has raised the bar include requirements to:
- record and verify all income streams
- consider more factors when arranging insurance
- ensure all work permits and visa conditions are complied with
- maintain appropriate contact with the police
Shephard continued: “SIA Approved Contractors are able to demonstrate to potential clients of security services that they are meeting the necessary requirements and that standards are increasing.”
At the end of April, the total number of SIA Approved Contractors was 730, while around 130,000 licensed operatives work for SIA Approved Contractors.
Consultation launched on future of private security sector in Northern Ireland
Department of Justice minister David Ford is seeking views on the future regulation of the private security industry in Northern Ireland.
The consultation will be used to determine how the industry in Northern Ireland should be regulated in the future. The paper will consider three main areas:
- a review of the impact of SIA licensing since its introduction in December 2009
- options for future regulation of the private security industry in Northern Ireland
- Northern Ireland-specific issues
The closing date for responses is Friday 24 August 2012. The consultation paper is available from the Department of Justice website: www.dojni.gov.uk/index/public-consultations/current-consultations.htm
The Department of Justice is organising workshops and focus groups to further discuss these issues. Please contact the Department direct for further details. The e-mail address ias as follows: PSI@dojni.x.gsi.gov.uk