Do you buy security? 

The security of your staff, premises, equipment and other assets is a serious commitment. Investing time in the procurement process by undertaking some basic checks can reap rewards when it comes to buying security.

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The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) provides a recognised hallmark of quality within the private security industry. ACS companies are rigorously assessed against over 80 performance indicators across nine essential criteria; helping you to make decisions that are based on quality and value. 

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When you choose a security supplier who is a Security Industry Authority (SIA) approved contractor, you can be sure that the business you are working with has been independently checked and is one of the top suppliers in the sector. 

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Buying cut price security may be appealing at the time but consider the possible consequences. Your brand could be at risk if you buy low quality security that goes wrong. Experience of reporting in the media shows that it is the high profile name of the buyer that makes the headlines, not the security contractor.

If your security supplier provides very low hourly rates for provision of security, this could be an indication of legal requirements being breached - which may impact on insurance cover and have further consequences. The SIA works other agencies and prosecutes offenders through the criminal courts. 

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Good quality security provision reduces the danger of violent incidents; lower quality provision can raise the risks of harm to your staff and the public as well as potentially damaging your brand. 

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* The above is quoted directly from Do you buy security? The regulator's guide to buying private security. ACS/17-18/01

Published by the SIA,

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