BS 7858 vetting explained — and why it should be non-negotiable
An SIA licence proves training. Vetting proves suitability. Here is what a compliant screening file contains.
2026-05-06 · 5 min read · Triforce Operations
An SIA licence confirms an officer has completed the required training and passed a criminality check at the point of application. It does not confirm employment history, right to work continuity, or financial probity.
BS 7858 screening fills that gap. A compliant file covers a five-year employment history with gaps of more than 31 days explained and verified, character references, identity and right-to-work documents, and a financial probity check where the role warrants it.
For client-side risk, the practical question is simple: can your provider produce the screening file for any officer on your site within one working day? If not, your assurance is theoretical.
We maintain screening files centrally, review them on renewal dates, and include vetting status in the monthly contract report. It costs a little more to run properly. It costs considerably more not to.