by Shane Henson — May 14, 2012—ASIS International (ASIS), an organization dedicated to increasing the effectiveness and productivity of security professionals, recently received approval from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for a standard created to assist private security companies (PSCs) and their clients in providing demonstrable commitment, conformance, and accountability to the principles outlined in the International Code of Conduct (ICoC) for Private Security Service Providers.
The standard, Management System for Quality of Private Security Company Operations—Requirements with Guidance (ANSI/ASIS PSC.1-2012), was developed by a technical committee comprised of more than 200 members from 24 countries.
ASIS International considers the standard a necessity given that private security service providers, including PSCs, play an important role in protecting state and non-state clients engaged in relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts; commercial business operations; diplomacy; and military activity.
“This remarkable international effort demonstrates the importance of this industry sector in support of peace and stability around the globe,” says Dr. Marc Siegel, commissioner, ASIS International Global Standards Initiative and chairman of the Technical Committee. “PSCs need to conduct their business and provide services in a manner that respects human rights and laws. The standard creates a differentiator for PSCs to assure quality of services while maintaining the safety and security of their operations with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
