Do you need expert help to become an SIA approved contractor?

This is a question we have been asked many times and the answer is: generally no. The ACS application process is designed to be manageable for any company, regardless of size.

It starts with your own assessment of your organisation, which is then verified by an independent (non-SIA) assessor. Experience shows that you and your employees are best placed to carry out your company's self assessment. You know how your company operates, and the ACS Self Assessment Workbook will enable you to quickly and easily identify your organisation's strengths and weaknesses.

To help you, we provide a comprehensive guide to the self assessment process, as well as good practice tips on how to complete your achievement record. The ACS team is available for calls Monday to Friday, 9am-5.00pm, and our regional quality assurance managers can offer advice before, during and after the approval process (this may be in face-to-face meetings at your offices if you wish). There is no additional cost to you for this support.

Third Party Advice

You may still choose to engage a consultant to help you with your ACS application. If you do, you should be clear about what help and advice they are offering you and the costs that will be incurred as a result.

Some security companies have received poor service from independent consultants engaged to help them achieve SIA approval. Issues have included inaccurate or incorrect information, inappropriate advice, and the provision of quality management systems that are neither tailored to the needs of a specific company nor sufficient to meet ACS requirements.

We recommend that you research and assess potential suppliers prior to selection. This will help you to determine the best option for your organisation and also help to ensure you get value for money.

You may wish to consider the following:

• What do you need and how else can the need be met? Is there a development or secondment opportunity for an existing member of staff?
• What other options do you have? It might be worth talking things through with someone that has succeeded in becoming an approved contractor.
• What knowledge and experience does the consultant have? Remember that in relation to the ACS, you have access to the same published information they do.
• Have you specified objectives, outcomes and timeframes in their contract?
• How will you implement and maintain any systems/processes they set up?

Please note: the SIA does not train, approve or enter into any commercial relationship with consultants. Beware of unsupported claims of ACS training and/or links with us.