Building trust with security standard BS 7858:2004
Adil Hadi is managing director of Shield Security Services, which provides tailor-made security security solutions. The Hampshire-based company has 190 employees and complies with several standards, including BS 7858:2004, a code of practice relating to the vetting of security personnel. Adil explains:
- why standards are essential to his firm
- how compliance helps attract new contracts
- the risk reduction and protection that standards can provide.
With which standards does Shield Security Services comply?
The security industry has standards that set out procedures for every aspect of a business.
- Adil Hadi says:
“As well as BS 7858:2004, a code of practice relating to the vetting of security personnel, we also comply with ISO 9001, BS 7499:2002 static guarding and mobile patrol services, and
BS 7984 key-holding and response services.”
What risks has Shield Security Services avoided through compliance?
Compliance with the majority of standards is not compulsory. However, the law or agreed practices of an industry can render some standards mandatory.
- Adil Hadi says:
“When the standard on vetting security employees was introduced, the insurance industry decided that you had to follow the standard, otherwise your insurance would be invalid if you made a claim and the person involved had not been vetted properly.”
Read more about compliance.
Why did Shield Security Services opt for independent certification?
When buying a standard, it is often up to you whether to simply declare compliance or be tested by an independent certification body.
- Adil Hadi says:
“We felt it was important to prove to our clients that someone else had verified us and that we hadn’t just bought the standard document, read it and put it away in a desk.”
How do standards help Shield Security Services win new business?
The security industry is cut-throat. New clients look for independent reassurance when selecting providers of sensitive and responsible services.
- Adil Hadi says:
“Potential customers often want to know how we vet our staff. If they haven’t heard of the standard, we explain what it means and it makes them feel more comfortable about using us.”
Read more about the business benefits of standards.
How easy is it for Shield Security Services to stay up to date with changes to standards?
Standards must be updated to ensure that they remain relevant. The National Standards Body and other appropriate organizations communicate these changes to the industry.
- Adil Hadi says:
“Nowadays, it’s easy to keep up with changes to the standard. In our case we find out either though our insurer or the International Professional Security Association, of which we are members.”
