BSIA says smaller firms dominate membership

"SMEs play a valuable role in the UK economy and this is no different in the security industry," said BSIA company secretary George Cross. "With SMEs dominating BSIA's membership and the Association operating a strict one member, one vote policy, such businesses obviously make a vital contribution at section meetings and assist in the drafting of new standards and codes of practice for the industry.

"In turn, the BSIA assists all its members by providing services such as its Business Support helpline, which advises on legal matters of all kinds; discounts on insurance; a personal accident scheme for members' employees, the opportunity to participate in overseas trade shows and exhibitions and a vetting service at discounted rates, providing pre-employment security screening.

"These, along with a variety of other benefits of membership, ensure that BSIA's members are supported across the board in running their businesses.

BSIA membership is only available to companies that have a significant proportion of their business within the security industry. Prior to entry, companies are required to demonstrate that they are financially sound, well-managed, fully insured and professionally competent, and must be inspected to BS EN ISO 9001:2000, incorporating relevant industry standards.

For more information call the BSIA helpline on 01905 21464.

• The Security Industry Authority and the BSIA have welcomed the work of the Keyholding and Response Consultation Group, which has produced a National Occupational Standard.

The Keyholding and Response Consultation Group is an independent group facilitated by SITO, representing all the key stakeholders in this sector. It has come together to produce qualifications for the discipline to complement licensing of the sector.

Alan Martin, head of Standards Development at SITO, said: "We are delighted that the SIA and the BSIA have endorsed the work of the Group.

“Whilst the SIA licences for keyholders and security officers provide assurance of the minimum standard of competence, this new qualification sets the benchmark for occupational competence for people who hold keys and respond to events at clients' sites."

• The BSIA has launched a campaign area on leading political website politics.co.uk to raise awareness of the Association and its stance on key issues. The campaign area will inform site visitors about the role of the BSIA, its membership and important industry developments.