Security Association members lead the way in Northern Ireland

As compulsory licensing of Security Officers and the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme start to take hold in Northern Ireland, the International Professional Security Association (IPSA) has noted that it is member companies of IPSA and the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), the two UK associations for security companies, that have achieved the quality mark of the Security Industry Authority’s voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme ( ACS).

In order to pass the inspection for the ACS, companies have to demonstrate compliance with the relevant industry standards and a quality scheme covering key aspects of the management of the company, its relationship with both employees and clients and also corporate social responsibility.

For many years, and certainly predating the Security Industry Authority, the security associations have been encouraging companies to comply with the relevant British Standards which are guidelines based on industry best practice. The associations have emphasised that their members are better informed and able to keep pace with change, meaning that their clients can expect to receive a consistently good service.

Keith Wray, Managing Director at Property Support Services Ltd, said “We have always embraced standards and quality of service, and see the SIA Approved Contractor Scheme as a welcome addition to our existing standards certificated after inspections by SSAIB and our long term commitment to the industry as members of the International Professional Security Association”

The Security Industry Authority Chief Executive, Bill Butler, said: “I am delighted to congratulate Property Support Services on becoming an ACS company. They have shown a commitment to raising standards within the private security industry. Buyers of security services can have peace of mind and confidence knowing that approved companies have reached stringent and wide ranging standards."

Justin Bentley, CEO of IPSA, commented “I congratulate Property Support Services on being awarded this recognition of best practice and commitment to standards. Early adoption of this scheme, following its expansion into Northern Ireland demonstrates this company’s forward planning and wish to ensure the best service delivery to their clients.”