BSI Codes (BS 7499: Guarding, BS 7858: Screening, BS 10800: Security Services)
The British Standards Institution (BSI) sets the benchmark for how the UK security industry should operate. While these codes may sound technical, they’re there to protect you, your employer, and the public.
For frontline officers, the most relevant are:
BS 7499: Code of practice for guarding services.
BS 7858: Code of practice for screening and vetting security staff.
BS 10800: Code of practice for the delivery of security services.
These aren’t just words on paper—they shape how you patrol, how you’re employed, and how you manage risks like slips, trips and falls.
Tip: Think of BSI codes as the “instruction manual” for professionalism. They give structure and credibility to everything you do on shift.
BS 7499: Guarding and Safety on the Ground
BS 7499 sets standards for how guarding services should be delivered. This includes health and safety responsibilities—and yes, that covers slips, trips and falls.
Officers must carry out patrols in a way that protects both themselves and the public.
Employers must provide safe systems of work and training for hazard awareness.
Sites should be regularly inspected for risks like uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or obstructed exits.
Real-world example: On a night patrol of an industrial site, you notice stacked pallets blocking a fire exit. Under BS 7499, it’s your duty to log and report it immediately—it’s both a safety hazard and a compliance issue.
Tip: If you spot a hazard, don’t think “someone else will fix it.” BS 7499 expects you to act as the first line of safety.
BS 7858: Screening and Why It Matters for Safety
BS 7858 deals with the vetting and screening of security staff before they’re employed. At first glance, it might seem unrelated to slips, trips and falls—but it plays an important role.
It ensures only trustworthy, competent, and reliable officers are put on duty.
By screening out unsuitable candidates, it reduces the risk of negligence or corners being cut on safety.
Clients and employers can have confidence that officers will act responsibly when faced with hazards.
Scenario: A poorly vetted officer might ignore a spill because they “can’t be bothered.” A BS 7858-screened officer, trained and accountable, knows ignoring it risks someone’s health and the company’s reputation.
Tip: Your screening isn’t just about background checks—it’s proof that you’ve been recognised as someone clients can trust to do the right thing.
BS 10800: A Framework for Professional Security Services
BS 10800 is the umbrella standard that ties everything together. It sets expectations for how security companies deliver their services, ensuring professionalism and compliance.
For you as an officer, this means:
Consistency: The way you handle a slip hazard in London should be the same as how a colleague handles it in Manchester.
Training: Officers must be equipped with practical skills to manage risks.
Accountability: Every action you take (or fail to take) can reflect on your employer’s compliance with BS 10800.
Tip: BS 10800 is about consistency. If you apply your hazard awareness the same way on every site, you’re already meeting this standard.
Common Hazards You’ll Face (and How Standards Apply)
Slips, trips and falls aren’t “minor issues”—they account for over 30% of major workplace injuries reported to the HSE. BSI codes make sure these are taken seriously.
Wet floors → BS 7499 expects you to act immediately.
Blocked walkways → BS 10800 requires consistent procedures across sites.
Negligence → BS 7858 helps ensure officers with the right attitude are selected to prevent this in the first place.
Example: A coffee spill in a reception area might seem small, but if ignored, it could result in a broken wrist and a claim against your employer. By following the BSI expectations, you prevent the incident and protect everyone involved.
Tip: When in doubt, ask yourself: Would this situation meet the BSI “gold standard” for safety? If not, fix it or report it.
BSI Codes Simplified
| BSI Code | Focus Area | Relevance to Slips, Trips & Falls |
|---|---|---|
| BS 7499 – Guarding Services | Standards for how guarding should be delivered, including patrols and site safety. | Officers must act on hazards such as wet floors, blocked exits, or poor lighting immediately. |
| BS 7858 – Screening of Security Staff | Vetting and background checks to ensure reliability and trustworthiness. | Helps ensure only responsible officers are employed—reducing the risk of negligence in hazard management. |
| BS 10800 – Security Services | Framework for consistent delivery of security services across sites. | Ensures a standard approach to handling slips, trips, and falls—professional responses every time. |
Tip: Think of these codes as your “safety compass.” If you’re ever unsure how to act, ask: Does my response reflect BS 7499, BS 7858, and BS 10800?
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to uphold these standards has serious knock-on effects:
For individuals: Injuries, lost wages, long-term health issues.
For employers: Loss of BSI certification, fines, contract cancellations.
For officers: Loss of SIA licence, disciplinary action, damage to reputation.
Scenario: A visitor trips on a loose cable that wasn’t dealt with. The client asks for CCTV and sees you walked past it twice. The company faces investigation—and your professionalism is questioned.
Tip: Never assume “no one will notice.” Compliance is about doing the right thing, even when nobody’s watching.
Building a Safety Culture Through BSI Standards
The BSI codes aren’t just for management—they shape how you work as a team:
Lead by example: show safe behaviour on patrols.
Share knowledge: talk about hazards at handovers.
Back each other up: if a colleague acts, support them.
Treat every hazard seriously: even “near misses” matter.
Tip: A strong safety culture makes your job easier. If everyone looks out for hazards, accidents become rare—and sites stay compliant.
Your Safety Standards in Action
BSI Codes are your benchmark: They set the professional standards every UK security officer is expected to meet.
BS 7499 – Guarding practices: Patrol with awareness, spot hazards early, and take action quickly.
BS 7858 – Screening: Only trusted, reliable officers who take safety seriously are approved to work.
BS 10800 – Service delivery: Ensures consistency and professionalism across the whole security industry.
Your role matters: Hazard spotting and reporting isn’t “extra”—it’s compliance and professionalism in action.
Final Tip: Each time you prevent a slip, trip, or fall, you’re not just protecting others—you’re safeguarding your licence, your reputation, and your career.
