BS7858 (2019) Standard Explained

We acknowledge that the name doesn't reveal much with this check - it is a security check which details how to screen and vett individuals who want to work in "secure" environments, defined as anywhere that an insider could steal or threaten the integrity of data, information, or other physical or intellectual assets; or threaten people's safety. In short, this standard is for the pre-employment screening and vetting of individuals working within a security environment, delivered as a structured bs7858 security screening process.

It is the best practice procedure published by the BSI (British Standards Institution) and is regulated by the SIA (Security Industry Authority). Whilst BS7858 remains best practice, it is not necessarily required in order for an individual to obtain an SIA license. This standard was recently updated in 2019 and our bs7858 vetting service reflects that. Character reference was removed, as there was possibly too much scope for it to be fraudulent.

Additionally, the scope has changed from just the security sector - it has now been amended to apply to any business that deals with security. Media searches are now recommended but not mandatory.

This screening can be done for international candidate as well, so long as they have a current UK address. We have seen a steady increase in the number of checks being undertaken for international candidates. We can add on the international checks once we know the 5 year address history of the candidate.

Contact our friendly and knowledgeable team to find out more about what you need to do to make sure your employees are satisfactorily screened - we love to help and offer a cost-effective bs7858 security screening process.

Checks such as ID, Address Verification and Credit checks can be undertaken immediately, whilst checks such as Employment History we must wait for from third-parties - but we promise to keep you updated every step of the way. You will then receive a full electronic employee screening report which will confirm absolutely everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Our BS7858 Vetting Service in Detail

Our BS7858 vetting service is designed to meet the full BS7858:2019 standard without adding unnecessary complexity to your hiring process. Every BS7858 security screening we process includes the mandatory five-year employment history, identity and address verification, Right to Work confirmation, Basic DBS, and the BS7858 credit check that assesses financial stability — a critical element for anyone working with valuables, cash handling, or sensitive sites.

The BS7858 credit check isn't just a formality. It identifies County Court Judgements, bankruptcy, IVAs and other financial red flags that could indicate vulnerability to coercion, fraud, or conflicts of interest. Combined with the rest of the BS7858 security screening suite, it gives security employers a complete picture before an offer is made.

We deliver the full BS7858 security screening package through Xavier, our proprietary platform, giving you real-time visibility on every stage of the check.