What is BS7858?
BS7858:2019 is the code of practice published by the BSI (British Standards Institute) that gives recommendations for the screening of individuals working in a secure environment where the security or safety of people, goods and services, data or property is required or where such screening is in the public interest. The standard became effective on 1st April 2020.
Who needs BS7858 Screening?
Typically, BS7858 Screening is required to comply with certain accreditations such as NSI (National Security Inspectorate), SIA-ACS (Security Industry Authority – Approved Contractor Scheme), SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) or certain ISO (International Organization for Standardization) accreditations. Some insurers also require BS7858 as part of a policy condition. The majority of companies utilizing this standard are security companies, such as manned guarding or CCTV systems installers, however this standard is also widely used in industry sectors such as Document Shredding, Data Destruction, Secure Logistics and Utility Companies.
What’s new ?
A Change of Scope – Previously the Standard only applied to the security industries sector such as Manned Guarding or Alarm & CCTV Installers. However, this has been amended so that it can be applied to any industry sector that works in a secure environment or where the safety of people is a concern.
Character References – This is no longer a requirement of the process.
A Risk-Based Approach to Hiring – Hirers are now encouraged to assess candidates on a risk basis and not to reject a job candidate due to an adverse result. The suitability to the role should be considered in detail and made the priority.
A Global Watchlist check such as a Financial Sanctions check is now a mandatory requirement.
A recommendation to carry out Social Media background checks.
Do you need new application forms?
The following sections on the screening application form should be updated to comply with BS7858:2019
• Is permission given to contact the current employer?
• Criminal record convictions question to include motoring offences including pending convictions.
• The security screening declaration.
Do you require training?
The new version of the Standard specifies that all staff engaged in managing the BS7858 screening process should be trained to comply with the new Standard. This includes staff such as HR, Operations Compliance teams and anyone involved in recruitment, managing the screening process, even if the screening process is outsourced.
Do staff that have been previously screened to BS7858:2012 need to be screened again?
If an individual has been screened to a previous standard, there is no requirement to undergo further screening to update to this new version; provided evidence of previous screening can be clearly demonstrated.
Best industry practice would recommend the renewal of the criminal record and financial background checks every 3 years.
What does BS7858:2019 mean to you?
The aim of the BSI is to bring the Standard up to date and provide an even better service for those being checked, by reducing risk and improving confidence in the system. Security & Vetting Solutions will ensure a smooth changeover to the new standard and guide our clients through any changes in the process.
If your organisation requires BS7858 screening services or you just wish to find out more information about this, please call us on +44 (0) 1962 600 110 or email sales@security-vetting.co.uk to find out how we can help.