Obtaining BS7858 certification in the UK involves ten significant steps.
Start by acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the BS7858 standards set by the British Standards Institution.
Assemble all necessary paperwork, including evidence of identity and employment history.
Validate a minimum of five years of employment history and carry out comprehensive background checks, inclusive of credit checks.
Establish detailed screening procedures and keep precise screening records for at least seven years.
Conduct frequent audits to ensure compliance with rules.
Lastly, secure certification confirmation by maintaining precise records of training and screening methods.
For comprehensive advice on each of these steps, additional information can make the process clearer.
Understand BS7858 Standards
Grasping the BS7858 standards is a crucial step towards maintaining the integrity of personnel within the UK security sector. These standards are set by the British Standards Institution and were last updated in 2019.
BS7858 provides a comprehensive set of vetting procedures aimed at improving the trustworthiness of individuals working in security roles. Adherence to these standards is a must for organizations pursuing the status of an SIA approved contractor and promoting industry best practices.
These standards mandate thorough background checks, verifying at least five years of employment history, and conducting a six-year credit search to assess financial stability. To comply with BS7858, various documents are needed, such as proof of identity, proof of the right to work in the UK, and proof of address.
It is also necessary for candidates to have a valid SIA license or a basic disclosure/ACPO check that is equivalent.
BS7858 also entails the upkeep of a screening file for each employee, which needs to be retained for at least seven years after an employee leaves the organization.
The most recent version of the standard incorporates social media checks and global watchlist screenings, thus making the vetting process more robust.
Compliance with these standards enables organizations to significantly reduce the risks associated with hiring personnel in the security sector, resulting in a reliable and trustworthy workforce.
Gather Required Documentation
Securing the necessary documentation forms an integral part of the BS7858 certification process. This process is built on rigorous vetting procedures dictated by the standards.
The required documentation helps verify an individual's identity and employment history accurately, a fundamental aspect in ensuring the security and integrity of the industry. Compliance with data protection legislation is also a requirement during this process, due to the necessity of employee consent for processing sensitive personal information data protection compliance.
Typically, the following documents are required for BS7858 certification:
- A valid passport or driving license
- A birth certificate
- Recent utility bill (excluding mobile phone bills)
- Bank statements to confirm identity and address
Verifying the accuracy of all submitted documents is necessary, with inaccuracies possibly leading to application delays or rejection.
If there are any employment gaps exceeding 31 days, documentation covering these periods must be provided. For those who are self-employed, relevant documents verifying their employment history and right to work in the UK are also necessary.
Verify Employment History
In the framework of BS7858 certification, the confirmation of employment history is a significant step that ensures candidates adhere to the high demands of the security sector. The standard dictates that employers confirm at least five years of employment history for each applicant.
This confirmation requires gathering documentary proof, such as P45 or P60 forms, payslips, and employment contracts, to back up the information given by candidates. Also, employers might want to perform checks on job applicants to ensure comprehensive vetting during the recruitment process.
Any employment gaps exceeding 31 days must be thoroughly explained and documented, promoting transparency and compliance with BS7858 standards. This examination is vital as it helps employers evaluate a candidate's dependability and dedication to their professional history.
Besides employment records, verification procedures may include credit searches covering the past six years to appraise the financial stability of the candidate, adding another layer of evaluation, which is particularly relevant in the security sector.
Conduct Background Checks
After verifying the employment history, it is significant to conduct comprehensive background checks as part of the BS7858 certification process. These checks confirm the trustworthiness of security personnel and their ability to protect sensitive settings.
For a more comprehensive screening process, employers may also consider DBS checks which provide details on an applicant's criminal record, a critical factor for roles requiring high trust levels.
The background check procedure comprises several key elements:
- Verification of Employment History: Confirming at least five years of employment history is necessary to establish reliability.
- Credit Search: A six-year credit search helps gauge the candidate's financial stability, reducing risks related to financial distress.
- Identity Verification: Collection of documents such as passports, birth certificates, or utility bills is needed to verify the candidate's identity and right to work in the UK.
- Document Authenticity: Employers need to confirm the authenticity of all documents presented, which may include additional checks on public records and social media for comprehensive background assessments.
Additionally, employers should keep a complete screening file for each employee for a minimum of seven years post-employment, documenting all background checks performed.
This detailed approach protects the interests of both employers and clients.
Implement Screening Processes
Organizations seeking BS7858 certification should routinely implement robust screening processes. This procedure involves confirming a candidate's employment history for no less than five years, which includes the gathering of documentary evidence to explain any gaps in employment.
Conducting comprehensive identity checks is vital, affirming the applicant's right to work in the UK and the possession of a legitimate SIA license or basic disclosure/ACPO check.
In addition to conventional checks, the updated BS7858:2019 standard requires social media evaluations and global watchlist screenings, augmenting the vetting process to validate candidate dependability.
Organizations are obligated to keep a comprehensive screening file for every employee, holding all relevant documentation for seven years after employment concludes. This practice not only supports compliance but also offers a historical account of the screening process.
Obligatory training for staff involved in the screening process helps maintain these standards. This education assures that personnel are knowledgeable in legislative requirements and best practices, fostering adherence to BS7858 compliance.
Train Screening Personnel
The importance of training for screening personnel is underscored by the necessity to comply with BS7858:2019 standards. This training is obligatory for all employees engaged in managing screening procedures, as it equips them with the knowledge to meet current industry regulations.
The online training course, which spans two hours, costs £65 plus VAT per participant and concludes with a Certificate of Completion.
The course is divided into four primary modules, each concentrating on a significant aspect of screening practices, such as:
- Verification of comprehensive career history
- Checks to confirm the right to work
- Verification of basic identification documents
- Examination of applicant verifiability
These modules endow participants with the skills required to conduct screenings in accordance with BS7858 stipulations.
In addition, the course provides six structured CPD hours for Security Institute members, contributing to their continuous professional development in the security field.
By investing in the training of screening personnel, organizations not only align with BS7858 standards but also promote a culture of thoroughness and professionalism in their screening procedures.
Appropriate training is a key measure in preserving the integrity of the security workforce, ensuring that only the most competent individuals are given responsibility for sensitive roles.
Maintain Screening Files
Maintaining comprehensive screening files is a key aspect of adhering to BS7858 standards and safeguarding the integrity of the screening process. Each employer is required to establish an in-depth screening file for every individual, keeping these records for a minimum of seven years after employment has ended. This retention period is significant for compliance and for addressing possible queries from regulatory bodies or clients.
A complete screening file should include all relevant documentation, such as proof of identity, employment history, and verification of the right to work. It is especially important to document any employment gaps exceeding 31 days; these must be validated with suitable documentary evidence, such as utility bills or bank statements.
In addition, the precision and up-to-dateness of the information within the screening files are fundamental to avoid compliance problems during audits. Regular checks and updates to these files makes sure that they remain aligned with BS7858 standards and accurately reflect the employment history and qualifications of the individual.
Perform Regular Audits
Systematic audits are vital for ensuring consistent compliance with BS7858 standards and detecting potential gaps within the screening process. Audits should be carried out at least annually to gauge the effectiveness of security screening procedures and documentation. This proactive strategy confirms adherence to standards and promotes a culture of ongoing improvement.
During the audit process, direct attention to the following key areas:
- Confirm that all employee screening files are kept for a minimum of seven years post-termination, as required by BS7858.
- Check the accuracy and completeness of the five years of employment history, giving special attention to any gaps over 31 days.
- Verify that appropriate documentation is available for all stages of the screening process.
- Based on audit findings, take corrective actions to improve the screening process and bolster compliance with BS7858 standards.
Ensure Compliance With Regulations
Compliance with BS7858 regulations requires organizations to establish a comprehensive vetting process that thoroughly checks candidates' backgrounds. It involves verifying a minimum of five years of employment history and conducting a six-year credit search to evaluate financial stability.
It is mandatory for employers to gather and confirm proof of identity, the right to work in the UK, and proof of address before any employment begins.
Keeping a detailed screening file for each employee is fundamental; these files must be retained for a minimum of seven years after employment, ensuring all documents stay accurate and up-to-date.
Documentary evidence, such as utility bills and bank statements, must be collected to cover any employment gaps exceeding 31 days, as set out by the BS7858 standard.
Additionally, organizations have to stay alert and informed about relevant legislation and regulations to effectively put into practice and manage the BS7858 screening process.
This vigilance not only upholds compliance but also reduces risk exposure, protecting the integrity of the organization's recruitment practices.
Obtain Certification Confirmation
The process of confirming certification for BS7858 compliance is a critical step for organizations dedicated to maintaining stringent screening standards. Such confirmation proves that an organization has effectively implemented the required measures to comply with BS7858:2019 requirements.
To reach this goal, organizations are required to complete several crucial activities:
- Complete the BS7858:2019 training program to receive a Certificate of Completion that confirms understanding of the screening process.
- Preserve accurate screening files and records for a minimum of seven years after an employee's departure to ensure compliance.
- Regularly update screening processes in line with any changes to the BS7858 standard, thus promoting public safety and operational integrity.
- Provide necessary documentation, such as proof of training and screening practices, to validate compliance with BS7858 requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the BS7858 Process?
The BS7858 process involves meticulous screening of individuals, which includes checks on employment history, financial status, and verification of identity documents. This stringent check ensures that those working in the security sector meet the required standards of reliability and trustworthiness.
What Is the BS7858 Accreditation?
The BS7858 accreditation is a standard in the UK that focuses on comprehensive vetting for security personnel. This standard is established by the British Standards Institution and it aims to improve adherence to regulations and build public trust through stringent employment and background checks.
How Long Is BS7858 Valid?
The BS7858 certification does not have an expiration date; organizations, however, are required to stay compliant with its guidelines regularly. This continuous compliance includes routine updates, training, and the keeping of screening files for at least seven years after an employee has left the company.
What Is BS7858 and Who Deals With Vetting Screening for Interr?
BS7858 is a standard in the United Kingdom that is used for vetting people within the security sector, with a focus on the trustworthiness of an employee. Compliance is monitored by organizations such as the Security Industry Authority, and there are specialized firms that assist employers with the vetting screening process.