Certificación
ISO 18788 Certification Private Security Management
ISO 18788 is the international standard that establishes the requirements for implementing, maintaining, and improving a Security Operations Management System (SOMS). It is aimed at organizations that conduct or contract private security operations, providing a business and risk management framework that ensures legal compliance, respect for human rights, and the professionalization of these services.
¿Qué es ISO 18788 Certification?
What is ISO 18788?
ISO 18788 provides private security companies and organizations that contract these services with a comprehensive management framework: how to plan, execute, monitor and improve their security operations, managing risks, being accountable to the law and respecting human rights at every stage of the service.
The standard incorporates principles from international frameworks such as the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (ICoC) and the Montreux Document, making it particularly relevant for organizations operating in contexts where the rule of law may be weakened. By following the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach, it is compatible with standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 45001.
The conceptual basis
The pillars of ISO 18788
Accountability and legal compliance
The standard requires demonstrating that security operations are conducted in accordance with the law and the voluntary commitments undertaken by the organization.
Respect for human rights
It incorporates principles from international frameworks such as the International Code of Conduct (ICoC) and the Montreux Document, putting respect for human rights at the center of management.
Business-oriented risk management
It provides a business and risk management framework, not just an operational one, that helps organizations respond to customers, authorities, and other stakeholders.
Compatibility with other management systems
By being based on the PDCA approach, it shares principles with standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 45001, which facilitates its integration.
The structure of the standard
The 10 chapters of ISO 18788
Scope
Define the scope of the standard and which organizations it is directed to.
Regulatory references
Indicate the reference documents necessary for the application of the standard.
Terms and definitions
It brings together the specific terms and definitions of security operations used in the standard.
Organizational context
It requires identifying internal and external factors, and the needs of stakeholders, that influence security operations.
Leadership
It establishes that senior management is responsible for the effectiveness of the system, with an active and visible commitment to the security policy.
Planning
It requires addressing risks and opportunities systematically, and establishing specific and measurable security objectives.
Support
It covers the resources needed to sustain the system: competent personnel, adequate infrastructure, and an appropriate work environment.
Operation
It establishes the translation of strategic plans into controlled actions for the provision of security services.
Performance evaluation
It requires monitoring, measuring, analyzing, and auditing the performance of the security operations management system.
Improvement
Establish the continuous improvement cycle based on nonconformities, incidents, and lessons learned.
The value of the LSQA seal
We turn technical backing into trust
The LSQA seal is not just a document: it is visible proof that an organization went through a rigorous, objective audit process. When a client, business partner, or regulator sees it, they know it reflects years of certification experience across Latin America, strict technical criteria, and ongoing monitoring — not a self-assessment. That's why the seal becomes a business tool: it reduces the uncertainty of whoever chooses you and communicates, at a glance, a real commitment to quality.
Why certify
Benefits of ISO 18788 certification
Demonstrate to clients and authorities legal compliance and respect for human rights in security operations
It strengthens the credibility and professionalism of the organization when facing demanding tenders and contracts.
It improves the management of operational, reputational, and legal risks associated with security services.
It facilitates access to markets and customers that demand internationally certified suppliers.
It integrates with other certified management systems, such as ISO 9001 or ISO 45001.
It protects the reputation of both the security organization and its clients.
Your journey with LSQA
Certification Process
Contact with LSQA
I receive advice
I provide the information needed for a quote
I receive a quote
I confirm the agreement by signing the contract
Welcome to the LSQA network
I am contacted to begin coordinating the service
I meet the audit team for my confirmation
I receive the audit plan
Audit
I receive the report
If applicable, I receive the certificate
My voice is heardPreguntas frecuentes
What is ISO 18788 certification?
The ISO 18788 certification verifies that an organization has a Security Operations Management System implemented in accordance with the requirements of the international standard ISO 18788:2015, aimed at ensuring legal compliance and respect for human rights in private security services.
What type of organizations does ISO 18788 apply to?
It applies to any organization that conducts or contracts private security operations, including security companies, and is especially relevant for those operating in contexts where the rule of law may be weakened.
What is the relationship between ISO 18788 and the PSC.1 standard?
PSC.1 is an industry standard (ANSI/ASIS) that can be certified as a scope extension of ISO 18788, providing additional requirements specific to private security companies (PSCs). PSC.1 certification is not mandatory for ISO 18788 certification.
Can ISO 18788 be integrated with other already certified standards?
Yes. By following the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach, ISO 18788 is compatible with management systems already implemented, such as ISO 9001 for quality or ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety.
How long does the ISO 18788 certification process with LSQA take?
The ISO 18788 certification process with LSQA, from application to certificate issuance, typically takes between two and four months, depending on the size and complexity of the organization. This timeframe includes service coordination, Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits, report preparation (up to 15 days after the audit), and, if applicable, the time for the organization to present and demonstrate the effectiveness of corrective actions for any nonconformities.
What is the validity period of the ISO 18788 certificate?
The ISO 18788 certificate is valid for three years. During this period, LSQA conducts annual follow-up audits to verify that the Safety Operations Management System remains compliant with the standard's requirements. At the end of the three-year period, a recertification audit is performed to renew the certificate for another three years.
Certify your Safety Operations Management System with LSQA
Contact us and start your journey towards ISO 18788 certification