The private security industry is in a state of positive transition. Government, police, unions and business communities are recognising the critical role that private security plays as a complementary component of assured business and public security. Significant investments are raising standards by attracting high calibre staff, improved training and remuneration and by utilising increasingly sophisticated technology.

The SIA introduced the mandatory licensing of security operatives and now in excess of 200,000 security operatives hold licences. Licensing has helped ensure that those working within the industry are fit and proper persons with the required training to undertake their roles.

If mandatory licensing was the foundation for positive change, then the most powerful catalyst for change has been the introduction of the SIA Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS). This accreditation scheme is based on a quality improvement system that evaluates all aspects of security suppliers operation.

The scheme provides purchasers with independent assurance of a security providers' commitment to quality throughout every facet of their business. Whilst licensing is demanded by law, seeking ACS accreditation is a voluntary decision. It's also a commercial decision because, without doubt, the Approved Contractor accreditation mark is regarded as an independent hallmark of quality.