If you have ever tried to apply for a license, get a job, or do almost anything that can be regulated by a governing body (or 10), you’ll be aware of security organisations that monitor other organisations.
Drivers who want their driving licenses have to deal with the DVLA. Want to make a complaint about TV shows? You have to send your problems to OFCOM. And then there is the Inland Revenue, everyone’s least favourite (just ask any self employed person when they are trying to fill in self assessment tax forms).
The security industry is no different. Training 4 Employment, during our various courses, will cover some of the governing bodies of the sector. Whether you are training to be a security guard, a door supervisor, a CCTV operator, or a close protection officer, you will have to deal with this security organisations at some point.
So we have compiled a list of the most relevant bodies. There are minor, more specific ones we’ll leave off for now, but for the most part, these are the major ones.
BSIA
British Security Industry Association
The major trade association in the UK, the BSIA has been the industry leader for over 40 years. They represent everyone from multinational corporations, to small enterprises. They not only regulate services, but they also regulate security products manufactured in the UK.
Any security firm worth their salt (the BSIA’s members account for 70% of the UK security sector’s annual turnover) will be SIA licensed. They also offer additional training through their training subsidiary, the Security Industry Training Organisation (SITO).
You can rely on the BSIA to have your back when it comes to representation, and the organisation is always striving to make work life better for their various members.
NSI
National Security Inspectorate
Upholding industry standards in such a sensitive field is essential, as any lapse by a security organisation can have serious repercussions. This is where the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) plays a critical role as an inspection body within the UK, ensuring that all member firms meet stringent safety and quality standards. Training4Employment highlights the importance of such oversight, showing how security organisations are held accountable through regular inspections and certifications.
The NSI assesses companies providing both residential and commercial security services, examining aspects like installation quality, equipment reliability, maintenance practices, and customer care. For companies, NSI certification signifies legal compliance and a commitment to high standards, which enhances their credibility.
This certification not only confirms a security organisation’s reliability but also builds client trust, leading to a stronger reputation and more stable revenue. For any security firm, gaining this certification offers both reassurance to clients and competitive advantage within the market
SSAIB
Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board
The SSAIB might not have the flashiest name, but it plays a critical role as a trusted security organization, ensuring safety and reliability across the industry. While a laid-back security firm can cause issues, a faulty alarm or subpar security system can lead to even bigger, costlier mistakes. That’s where the SSAIB steps in. They conduct regular checks on their members’ systems, including electronic security, fire alarms, and other essential safety measures, to make sure everything meets the highest industry standards. This helps businesses, homes, and communities feel confident that their security systems are reliable and effective. By maintaining strict oversight, the SSAIB ensures that security organizations deliver the level of protection people expect and deserve.
Again the benefits are obvious. The trust that comes along with such accreditation will help customers to trust the company in question. Combine recommendations from all three bodies, and security firms will find it much easier to attract new clients.
Image Credits
BSIA Logo – http://www.securitynewsdesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/BSIA-Logo1.jpg
NSI Logo – http://www.saturnsecurity.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/nsi-new-logo.bmp
SSAIB Logo – http://innovation.gb.net/site/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/SSAIB_logo_CMYK-300×268.jpg