SIA (Security Industry Authority) screening helps security companies and compliance teams meet the vetting requirements needed for secure environments and ACS (Approved Contractor Scheme) accreditation.
Designed for security companies, facilities management providers and recruitment agencies, our platform simplifies compliance and helps organisations make safer hiring decisions faster. VETTING.com enables you to manage security officer screening through one fully online workflow with real time tracking and automated candidate communication.
VETTING.com provides a complete platform for managing SIA background checks, including BS7858 screening, right to work & identity verification, employment referencing, DBS or AccessNI checks & sanctions screening.
SIA screening is typically based on the BS7858 standard and can include the following checks:
These checks help security companies and compliance teams verify the identity, history and suitability of individuals working within secure environments.
SIA screening was originally introduced for the security industry and remains a key requirement for organisations applying for the Security Industry Authority's Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).
It is commonly used by:
BS7858 screening is also now widely used across sectors including healthcare, finance, education, entertainment, retail and IT where secure access or sensitive environments are involved.
SIA screening requires identity verification and proof of address documentation as part of the BS7858 process.
Accepted identification documents include:
Accepted proof of address documents include:
Employment referencing documents may include:
VETTING.com provides a fully online process that guides candidates through each stage of document submission and verification.
COMPLETION TIME: USUALLY 2-14 DAYS
COVERAGE: UK
Our platform provides the option of a single or multi check report for all checks that you carry out. All the information you need is available to read and save at the click of a button.
Hopefully we can answer all of your SIA screening questions below, but if you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
SIA screening itself is not a legal requirement. However, it is a mandatory requirement for organisations applying for or maintaining approval under the Security Industry Authority Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS). Many employers also adopt BS7858 screening as best practice to ensure a consistent and auditable vetting standard.
SIA screening is typically aligned to BS7858 standards and is generally considered valid for five years from the date of completion. Many organisations also carry out ongoing screening checks to ensure continued compliance and suitability of staff.
VETTING.com provides real time updates as each individual check within the screening process is completed. Employers can view progress through the platform and receive a completed report once all elements, including identity verification, referencing, financial checks, sanctions and DBS or AccessNI checks, have been finalised.
SIA screening is designed for organisations operating within or supplying to the security industry. It is widely used by security companies, facilities management providers, recruitment agencies and contractors working in secure environments. It is also commonly required for organisations working towards or maintaining SIA Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) status.
SIA screening cannot be formally fast tracked as it is made up of multiple independent checks, including employment referencing and DBS or AccessNI checks, which are subject to external processing times.
Delays can be reduced by ensuring candidates provide accurate information and submit all required documents promptly. VETTING.com supports candidates through each stage to help avoid unnecessary delays.
SIA screening (typically based on BS7858) is designed for individuals working in the private security industry and secure commercial environments.
BPSS screening is a government baseline security standard used for individuals working with or around government assets and information.
Both are background screening standards, but they apply to different sectors and risk levels.
SIA licence applications are eligible for a Standard DBS check.
Yes. The entire SIA screening process can be completed online through VETTING.com. Candidates can submit documents, complete forms, provide consent for checks and track their progress in real time from any device.
Candidates are guided through each stage of the SIA screening process, including document upload and employment referencing. The platform clearly shows what is required at each step.
If additional support is needed, candidates can contact support@vetting.com for assistance from the customer success team.