COP119 – A Gamechanger Code of Practice for labour provision in the UK Security Industry

COP119 – A Gamechanger Code of Practice for labour provision in the UK Security Industry

The UK security sector relies on standards and codes of practice to maintain quality, accountability, and safety. One framework gaining attention is COP119, a non-British standard and non-UKAS accredited code of practice, used by various certification bodies as a compliance pathway for security companies. Although not yet an official British standard, COP119 plays a significant role within the industry. This article explores COP119, its components, its exclusion from the SIA’s Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), and the recent efforts towards establishing a British standard equivalent. We’ll also discuss how Tritact Consulting supports organisations in achieving COP119 compliance, offering essential guidance and expertise.

What is COP119?

COP119 is a code of practice, not an official British standard, and it does not have UKAS accreditation, meaning it lacks formal UKAS recognition as a compliance framework. Currently, Forefront Certification Ltd, the British Assessment Bureau, SSAIB, and NSI (referring to it as NCP119) are the main certification bodies providing COP119 certification.

While COP119 lacks official recognition, certification by a UKAS-accredited body (e.g., Forefront Certification Ltd, British Assessment Bureau) adds value to its credentials. This creates a more credible option than non-accredited certification bodies for security companies seeking to demonstrate a level of compliance.

Towards a British Standard: Draft Code of Practice, BS 10119

Recognising COP119’s role in the UK security sector, the British Standards Institution (BSI) began developing a formal British standard. Designated as BS 10119, the draft code of practice was completed in 2023; however, further development is currently paused. Should BS 10119 progress, it would allow COP119 to evolve into a more structured and universally applicable standard within the industry, providing clarity and consistency across certification bodies.

Components of COP119

COP119 typically includes essential components tailored to the security industry, though each certification body may apply slight variations. The common elements are:

• Risk Management: Protocols for identifying, assessing, and addressing security risks.
• Operational Competency: Requirements to ensure that personnel have the necessary skills, training, and qualifications.
• Compliance and Ethics: Guidelines promoting ethical practices, legal compliance, and conflict-of-interest management.
• Customer Service Standards: Standards to ensure clients receive a consistent and dependable service.
• Continuous Improvement: Policies for regular reviews and updates to adapt to evolving industry standards.

Why COP119 is Not Part of the SIA ACS Scheme

The SIA Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) is a respected framework for assessing private security providers’ trustworthiness, professionalism, and quality. However, COP119 falls outside of the ACS scope for several reasons:

• Non-Accredited Status: COP119’s lack of UKAS accreditation excludes it from the ACS framework.
• Inconsistent Requirements: Variations in COP119 requirements across certification bodies create inconsistencies that ACS standards cannot accommodate.
• Specialised Scope: While ACS focuses on broad aspects of service quality, COP119 is more specialised, addressing components such as risk management and operational competency, which do not fully align with the ACS criteria.

Tritact Consulting’s Role in COP119 Compliance

The non-standardised nature of COP119 across certification bodies makes achieving compliance challenging. Tritact Consulting provides vital guidance to companies seeking COP119 certification, offering services such as:

• Pre-Assessment Audits: Identifying gaps and preparing companies for formal COP119 audits.
• Compliance Strategy Development: Creating tailored compliance strategies that align with the requirements of the chosen certification body.
• Ongoing Training and Support: Providing staff training and continuous support to maintain compliance after certification.

Tritact Consulting’s expertise makes the process of navigating COP119’s requirements efficient and accessible, allowing companies to confidently focus on service quality and operational standards.

COP119 – A compliance solution

COP119 offers an alternative compliance framework for UK security companies that may not pursue SIA ACS certification. Although it is not an accredited British standard, COP119 has become a valuable code of practice within the industry. The ongoing development of BS 10119 through BSI suggests a movement toward a more structured, standardised framework that could enhance COP119’s applicability and value. In the meantime, Tritact Consulting remains a trusted partner, supporting companies with the tools and expertise needed to navigate COP119 successfully.

For security providers aiming to establish credibility and consistency in service quality, Tritact Consulting is a key resource in the journey toward COP119 compliance.

Get in touch with us today to start your journey toward a more trusted and competitive security business. Visit tritact.co.uk or call us at 020 8077 3222.