Private Security Operations Management
Management system standard for private security operations, ensuring alignment with human rights standards, legal obligations, and professional security practices.
ISO 18788 provides requirements for management systems governing private security operations, helping security companies demonstrate alignment with international human rights standards, legal obligations, and professional security practices. It draws on the Montreux Document and International Code of Conduct for Private Security Providers.
The standard is particularly relevant for organisations providing security services in complex, fragile, or conflict-affected environments where the potential for human rights violations is elevated. It addresses use of force policies, vetting requirements, and grievance mechanisms.
ACI-certified auditors evaluate private security management systems for human rights compliance, operational effectiveness, and the adequacy of accountability and oversight mechanisms.
Attend an ACI-Approved Training Provider (ATP) course for your chosen grade level. ACI-approved courses are aligned to the examination syllabus for ISO 18788.
Examinations are administered exclusively through ACI Approved Training Providers. Foundation and Internal Auditor examinations require 70% to pass; Lead Auditor requires 65%.
Submit your application through the ACI portal with your examination result, training certificate, and relevant audit experience log. Upon approval you receive your ACI Card ID and digital certificate.
Available Grades for ISO 18788
All six ACI auditor grades are available for this scheme. Each grade has defined competence, experience, and examination requirements.
Entry-level certification for those beginning their auditing career. Suitable for individuals who have completed foundation training but have limited audit experience.
For auditors who have completed Internal Auditor training and have begun accumulating audit experience under supervision or in an internal audit role.
Full auditor grade for practitioners with demonstrated audit experience. Recognised as a competent independent auditor of management systems.
Senior grade for experienced auditors capable of leading audit teams and managing full audit programmes. The most widely recognised auditor grade internationally.
Advanced grade for highly experienced auditors demonstrating sustained performance in complex audit environments and contributions to the auditing profession.
The highest ACI designation, awarded to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the management system auditing profession and to the ACI community.
Find an Approved Training Provider, sit the examination, and submit your application to ACI.