ISO 18788 Certification

ISO 18788 sets requirements for managing private security operations, grounded in respect for human rights and international humanitarian law.

Who Needs It?

Private security companies providing guarding, close protection and site security, especially for governments, NGOs and extractive industries.

The Certification Process

1. Application: share your scope, sites and headcount; we confirm the route and audit time.
2. Proposal and agreement: written proposal and certification agreement.
3. Stage 1 audit: documentation and readiness review.
4. Stage 2 audit: on-site evaluation of implementation and effectiveness.
5. Certification decision: made by a competent reviewer who was not on the audit.
6. Surveillance and recertification: annual surveillance, recertification every three years.

What Auditors Focus On

• Human rights risk assessment.
• Vetting, training and weapons authorization.
• Use-of-force rules and reporting.
• Incident investigation, grievance handling and subcontractor control.

FAQs