5 March 2008: The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is pleased to announce the first assessing body to offer access to the Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) via the Passport route.

From 1st April 2008, the Passport route will be open to National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Guarding Gold approved companies providing services for Security Guarding, Public Space Surveillance (CCTV), Door Supervision and Keyholding (NSI approved companies choosing this route must meet a new NSI Passport specification).

Michael Wilson, SIA Chief Executive said:

"The SIA is delighted to welcome NSI as the first assessing body permitted to offer the Passport route to the ACS. The SIA is determined to see the ACS as the approval of choice for security contracts across government, local government and industry. We want the ACS to provide a real business advantage to security companies, and the Passport route offers a further option for suppliers to realise that advantage."

Notes to Editors:

• For more information, visit www.nsi.org.uk
• There are currently 440 Approved Contractors