ISO 18788 is a standard that supports organizations performing security activities. It is based on the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Providers (ICoC), the Montreux Declaration, and the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. It provides a framework for developing, implementing, operating, tracking, evaluating, sustaining, and improving security operations management. It covers governance, legal compliance, risk assessment, human rights due diligence, incident management, operational control, performance evaluation, and continuous improvement. ISO 18788 is based on principles of responsibility, openness, human rights respect, and adherence to existing laws and regulations.
What is a Security Operations Management System (SOMS)?
The SOMS is a policy, procedures, maintain and processes that enable businesses to manage their security operations effectively. It also helps to ensure the client’s and stakeholder’s requirements.
Why is ISO 18788 Certification Important?
The ISO 18788 certification is important for several reasons:
- Displaying their dedication to moral behaviour and the defence of human rights using standards and best practices to increase their productivity and performance.
- Boosting their trust and reputation among stakeholders, clients, and the private security business
- Respecting relevant laws and regulations to lessen their exposure to legal and reputational threats.
- By satisfying the needs and expectations of potential customers, they can become more competitive and gain access to new markets.
- Assisting in the growth of a private security sector that is more responsible and professional
How to Achieve ISO 18788 Certification?
To gain the ISO 18788 certification, a business needs to follow the steps:
- To find out where the SOMS stands right now and what has to be improved, do a gap analysis.
- Create or update its ISO 18788 documentation packages, which include records, policies, procedures, and processes.
- Throughout the entire organization, implement the SOMS and make sure that every employee understands their obligations.
- Carry out internal audits to confirm the efficiency of its SOMS and find any areas that need improvement or non-conformities.
- Implement remedial measures to resolve any inconsistencies or problems found throughout the internal audits.
- To ensure that its SOMS complies with ISO 18788 standards, engage an authorised certification authority to do an external audit.
- Upon completion of the external audit, obtain a certificate of conformance from the certifying authority.
- Through routine observation, analysis, and assessment, maintain and enhance its SOMS.
Benefits of ISO 18788 Certification
Private security firms (PSCs) are businesses that offer security services to customers in a range of industries and situations, including cyber, maritime, land, and humanitarian. PSCs work in hazardous, complex circumstances where they could run into problems with the law, morality, and human rights. As a result, PSCs must exhibit professionalism, responsibility, and adherence to the law and human rights. Additionally, a SOMS aids an organization in proving:
- Enhanced the operational success
- Impasses trustworthiness and protects the organization’s image
- Establish comfort for customers
- Exhibits adherence to the law and respect for human rights.
Which Challenges Are Facing to Obtaining the ISO 18788 Certification?
The Challenges for PSCs of ISO 18788 Certification are as follows:
- Fulfilling the standard's exacting standards and expectations
- Putting money and effort into setting up and maintaining the management system.
- Being routinely audited by recognised certifying authorities
- Changing with the times in terms of laws and regulations
