We at Optim recognise that your security service must be more than just a man in a uniform and must actively reflect the image of your Company and the requirements as set out in the assignment instructions. We therefore ensure that our guards are always presentable, courteous and helpful to all visitors and staff to the building and are thoroughly competent to carry out the tasks and requirements as detailed within the assignment instructions, through ongoing training and development.

The Private Security Industry Act 2001 outlines a system for the statutory regulation of the private security industry.

On 20 March 2006 it became illegal to work as, or supply a contracted-in security guard without an SIA licence in England and Wales.

The current designated sectors or activities that must be covered by a licence are as follows:

• Security guarding - under contract

• Door supervisors - under contract and in-house

• Vehicle immobilising - under contract and in-house

• Private investigation - under contract

• Security consultants - under contract

• Keyholders - under contract.

These activities are defined in detail in Schedule 2 of the Act.

These clauses create the offence of engaging in conduct for which a licence is required when not in possession of the appropriate licence. The penalty on conviction in a magistrates' court, is up to six months' imprisonment or a fine of up to £5,000, or both. The Secretary of State can, by order, add or remove activities from the above list.

The SIA is the only authority in England and Wales dealing with these private security issues and they report directly to the Home Secretary.

A key role for the SIA involves the managing and issuing of licences for people working in particular areas of the private security business. Another crucial area for the future is developing the Approved Contractor Scheme.

Organisations that meet the requirements of the Approved Contractor Scheme can distinguish themselves as being amongst the best providers of private security services in England and Wales. Buyers of security services can be confident that an SIA Approved Contractor has been independently assessed against standards of quality and best practice.

Optim Contract Services is pleased to announce that it was one of the first London based companies to be awarded with the SIA Approved Contractor Status.