ISO 18788 Certification

Private Security Operations Management System

ISO 18788 is an international standard that specifies requirements and provides guidance for establishing, implementing, operating, monitoring, reviewing, maintaining, and improving the management of security operations. Specifically, it focuses on the management system for private security companies (PSCs).

Win customer confidence

Improve human rights fundamentals

Save time and operating costs

Clearly define responsibilities

Who is ISO 18788 certification suitable for?

For organisations that conduct or outsource security operations, ISO 18788 offers a risk management framework and a business approach. It establishes clear requirements and practical guidance for effective security management operations that comply with legal regulations, uphold human rights, and evaluate and reduce their impact on local communities.

This standard is especially important for organisations that operate in areas where the rule of law may be disrupted due to natural or human-induced events.

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Why do I need a management system according to ISO 18788?

Using the Plan-Do-Check-Act methodology, the ISO 18788 standard enables organisations that conduct or contract security operations to demonstrate the following:

Sufficient business and risk management capability to meet the professional expectations of clients and other stakeholders
Analysis and management of the impact that their operations have on local communities
Accountability to the law and compliance with human rights
Adherence to voluntary commitments that the organisation has made

By following this standard, organisations can maintain consistent and professional security operations that account for the specific risks and challenges of their operating environment.

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Key Principles of ISO 18788

The ISO 18788 standard outlines the following important principles for effective management of private security companies (PSCs):

Leadership and Vision: Top management must demonstrate commitment to quality work, compliance with laws, and protection of human rights.
Adaptability and Flexibility: Private security companies (PSCs) should be prepared to operate in unpredictable environments, necessitating quick adaptation through effective change control strategies.
Continual Improvement: Regular monitoring, measurement, and formal reviews are essential for continual improvement.

How does ISO 18788 certification work?

First, you discuss your company, your personal goals and the objectives of an ISO 18788 certification with us. Based on these discussions, you will receive an individual offer tailored to the needs of your company or organisation.

To assist you on the path to certification, DQS conducts thorough gap analyses against standards, specialising in optimising organisations. Our audits help align your management systems with required standards, evaluating current operations. Experienced auditors guide you in understanding and documenting organisational capabilities. Proficient in ISO 18788 standards, we assess performance and deliver a detailed report, providing clear guidance for certification.

The certification audit starts with a system analysis (audit stage 1) and the evaluation of your documentation, objectives, results of your management review and internal audits. This determines whether your management system is sufficiently developed and ready for certification. In the next step (system audit stage 2), your auditor assesses the effectiveness of all management processes on-site, applying the ISO 18788 standard. The audit result is presented at a final meeting. If necessary, action plans are agreed upon.

After the certification audit, the results are evaluated by the independent certification board of DQS. You will receive an audit report documenting the audit results. If all standard requirements are met, you will receive the ISO 18788 certificate.

With a view to continuous improvement and the ongoing effectiveness of your quality management system, on-site audits of key components of your system are conducted at least once a year to identify potential for improvement.

An ISO 18788 certificate is valid for a maximum of three years. Recertification is carried out well in advance of expiry to ensure continued compliance with the applicable standard requirements. Upon compliance, a new certificate is issued.

How much does ISO 18788 certification cost?

The cost of ISO 18788 certification depends on a number of factors. For example, the existence of an already certified management system. In addition, the size of your company and the complexity of the management system have an influence on the duration of the audits and the price. For these reasons, the costs for certification according to ISO 18788 cannot be given as a lump sum. We will be happy to make you an individual offer for your company, organisation or agency.

Why DQS?

DQS provides independent services that have a positive impact on people's lives all over the world. Our team of global experts can help improve your operations to be more efficient, sustainable, and streamlined. We offer a range of services that can enhance quality and productivity, reduce risk, verify compliance, and speed up your time to market. Our comprehensive services cover all industries and can directly impact the products and services that consumers worldwide depend on daily.

DQS Group offers more than 200 accredited, authorised or notified certification programmes and audit services.Entities within DQS Group hold various international accreditations such as DAkkS, SANAS, ANAB and many more – all in line with our customers‘ needs.

Understanding the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Providers' Association (ICoCA):

The ICoCA is a non-profit organisation that operates as a certification body, and it is a multi-stakeholder initiative. The board of directors has acknowledged ANSI/ASIS PSC.1 as a national standard that aligns with the ICoCA Articles of Association and procedures, in compliance with Article 11.2.1. The certification guarantees that a company's policies and systems are aligned with the Code's principles and standards.

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