- Approved Contractor Scheme

The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is the mechanism by which the Security Industry Authority (SIA) implements the requirements of the Private 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 Guarding
• Cash & Valuables in Transit Contractors
• Public Space Surveillance CCTV Contractors
• Close Protection Contractors
• Keyholding Contractors
• Vehicle Immobilisers (In-house and contractors)

Licensing in the above areas became effective across England and Wales on 20th March 2006; Scotland was brought under the SIA's requirements in November 2007.