Find answers in our list of frequently asked questions
Question for ACS (Approved Contractor Scheme)
A company must prove compliance with SIA standards, hold valid client contracts, and employ licensed operatives. It must also maintain professional policies covering governance, health & safety, training, and staff vetting. Financial stability and integrity are also key assessment areas.
The process can take three months to one year, depending on readiness. Well-prepared business with documented systems in place progress faster, while those with gaps in policies or records often face delays. Preparation is the most important factor in achieving timely approval.
The workbook requires evidence of contracts, training, staff vetting, HR policies, and compliance with BS standards. Health and safety records, insurance, and assignment instructions must also be submitted. Each document provides assurance that the company meets quality and compliance requirements.
ACS is renewed annually and includes a review of compliance through audits or inspections. Major changes in management, ownership, or business structure may also trigger additional reviews. Regular renewals ensure the scheme continues to represent current standards.
Yes, ACS is widely recognised across the UK as a trusted standard. Many public sector buyers, including councils and the NHS, require contractors to hold ACS. It improves credibility and significantly increases chances of winning tenders.
Question for ISO 9001 (Quality Management System)
ISO 9001 improves efficiency, strengthens customer satisfaction, and enhances credibility. It demonstrates a structured approach to quality management that clients value.
Most SMEs achieve certification in three to six months. Steps include gap analysis, implementation of controls, internal audits, and external assessment
Costs vary depending on scope and size, but typically range from a few thousand pounds. Investment levels are influenced by consultancy and certification body fees.
Yes, UKAS-accredited certification is the most credible and widely recognised in the UK. Non-UKAS certificates may not be accepted in tenders.
Yes, as long as all sites are included in the audit scope. Certification bodies assess consistency across locations.
Question for ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety)
ISO 14001 demonstrates a business’s commitment to managing environmental impact. Clients increasingly demand it as part of supply chain responsibility.
By integrating environmental management into existing processes and focusing on efficiency improvements. This reduces waste and costs while meeting compliance obligations.
Areas include waste management, energy use, emissions, and resource consumption. Businesses must monitor and control these consistently.
Monitoring is ongoing, with annual reviews and surveillance audits required. This ensures continual improvement and compliance.
Yes, certification lasts three years and requires annual surveillance audits. Renewal involves a full reassessment by the certification body.
Question for ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
ISO 45001 provides a structured management system that goes beyond compliance. It focuses on continual improvement, worker engagement, and proactive risk management.
It identifies hazards, assesses risks, and implements effective controls. Regular monitoring reduces incidents and strengthens workplace safety culture.
Required evidence includes health & safety policies, risk assessments, training records, and incident logs. These demonstrate compliance and effective risk management.
Certification generally takes three to six months. Timelines depend on the organisation’s size, readiness, and complexity of operations.
Yes, it enhances credibility in tenders and can reduce insurance premiums. Clients value companies with certified safety systems.
Question for BS7858 Screening & Vetting
BS7858 is the UK standard for vetting security staff. It applies to all organisations employing security operatives in licensable roles.
Checks include identity, address, employment history, financial records, and criminal history. Each step builds a full profile of an individual’s suitability.
Screening usually takes four to six weeks, depending on reference responses and the accuracy of information provided.
Applicants must provide ID, work history, references, and criminal record checks. Employers must verify each part thoroughly.
Yes, it assures clients that all staff are properly screened and trustworthy. Compliance strengthens a company’s reputation and contract potential.
Question for COP119
COP119 requires companies to properly vet labour providers ensure fair employment practices, and check right-to-work status. It ensures that security businesses meet ethical and legal standards.
It ensures that any labour providers used are compliant with SIA and employment law. Businesses must take responsibility for supply chain compliance.
Businesses must verify SIA licences, carry out BS7858 vetting, and ensure legal right to work. These checks protect clients and the industry.
Non-compliance risks ACS rejection, legal action, financial penalties, and reputational damage. It also undermines trust with buyers.
Yes, if a business uses labour providers, compliance with COP119 is required. Without it, ACS accreditation will not be granted.
Question for Safe Contractor
SafeContractor evaluates health & safety policies, staff training, risk assessments, and evidence of compliance with legislation. It ensures a business has robust systems to protect employees and clients. Accreditation signals strong workplace safety management.
The process usually takes two to four weeks if the evidence is accurate and complete. Delays typically arise from missing information or unclear documentation. Being well prepared ensures faster approval.
Yes, SafeContractor is widely accepted as proof of compliance. It eliminates the need for multiple health & safety questionnaires, saving time and resources. Many large buyers use it as their standard pre-qualification system.
If requirements are not met, you will be asked to make corrections and resubmit. This ensures companies have the opportunity to improve rather than face immediate rejection. Corrective action is a standard part of the process.
SafeContractor is a national scheme recognised throughout the UK. Accreditation is valid across all regions, meaning it supports businesses wherever they operate.
Question for CHAS
CHAS demonstrates compliance with health & safety law and industry standards. Many clients require CHAS accreditation before awarding contracts, making it essential for contractors seeking credibility and access to new opportunities.
Once all documents are submitted, assessments are normally completed within ten working days. Timelines depend on the accuracy and completeness of the evidence provided.
Businesses must provide health & safety policies, training records, risk assessments, and insurance certificates. These documents show the company actively manages workplace risks.
Some buyers request CHAS, while others expect ConstructionLine. Many contractors choose both accreditations to maximise opportunities and satisfy all buyer requirements.
CHAS is renewed annually. The renewal process ensures ongoing compliance with current health & safety standards.
Question for ConstructionLine
ConstructionLine is the UK’s largest pre-qualification register, linking suppliers with buyers. Membership demonstrates compliance with industry standards, simplifying procurement processes.
Evidence includes insurance, financial statements, health & safety records, and compliance certificates. Accurate submission of documents ensures faster approval.
Yes, ConstructionLine gives access to thousands of buyers and tender opportunities. It also demonstrates reliability and quality assurance to clients.
Fees vary by business size and level of membership. Renewal is annual and requires updated documents to confirm continued compliance.
While not legally required, many public sector organisations expect ConstructionLine membership. It is often a key factor in pre-qualification for contracts.
Question for SafeContractor
SafeContractor evaluates health & safety policies, staff training, risk assessments, and evidence of compliance with legislation. It ensures a business has robust systems to protect employees and clients. Accreditation signals strong workplace safety management.
The process usually takes two to four weeks if the evidence is accurate and complete. Delays typically arise from missing information or unclear documentation. Being well prepared ensures faster approval.
Yes, SafeContractor is widely accepted as proof of compliance. It eliminates the need for multiple health & safety questionnaires, saving time and resources. Many large buyers use it as their standard pre-qualification system.
If requirements are not met, you will be asked to make corrections and resubmit. This ensures companies have the opportunity to improve rather than face immediate rejection. Corrective action is a standard part of the process.
SafeContractor is a national scheme recognised throughout the UK. Accreditation is valid across all regions, meaning it supports businesses wherever they operate.