NSI adds new paths to ACS guarding ‘passports’ as it confirms reappointment as ACS assessment body

Left to right: Max Linnemann, NSI head of certification services and Margaret Durr, NSI head of field operations (services)

The NSI (National Security Inspectorate) has been reappointed (subject to contract) as an assessing body for the SIA’s Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) and ‘passport’ to ACS provider from 1 April 2017.

The NSI’s nine-strong services auditor team has completed more than 1,000 assessments on behalf of the SIA since the ACS was introduced in 2006.

Regional providers in particular often appoint the NSI to conduct assessments as part of their ACS standard route approval.

Serving as a ‘middle way’ upgrade, NSI Guarding Silver with a passport to ACS is on offer too. This means companies can demonstrate full compliance with British standards beyond standard ACS, without seeking approval to ISO 9001 (QMS) simultaneously.

The NSI provides assessment for guarding services providers of all sizes. The majority opt for NSI Guarding Gold with integrated NSI passport to ACS approval, which demonstrates to buyers of security services compliance with British standards and the ISO 9001 standard for quality management systems (QMS).

“Our team of auditors has industry expertise across a broad range of areas including security guarding, close protection, keyholding, CCTV, door supervision, event security and investigative services,” says Margaret Durr, NSI head of field operations (services). “Feedback from our clients is testament to the added value independent assessment can bring to an organisation.

“The ultimate winners are buyers and their staff, visitors and the general public using their services, who benefit from a consistent, measurable high quality service, providing real return on investment.

“In turn, security providers interested in the ACS or NSI’s sector-specific approval schemes can be assured of a professional and positive experience with NSI that supports continual improvement goals.”

Says Max Linnemann, NSI’s head of certification services: “We are delighted the SIA has renewed our ACS assessment delivery contract and look forward to continuing to work with organisations providing licensable services with a first class and friendly service. Margaret and her team of Services auditors demonstrate industry leading competence and experience delivering quality ACS audits.”

Find out more here and find out about the benefits of NSI certification by emailing [email protected] or calling on 01628 764855.

The NSI is a longstanding and valued partner of, and exhibitor at, IFSEC International, Europe’s biggest fire and security trade show – taking place 20-22 June 2017, London ExCeL. Get your free badge now.

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