BSI launches independent assessment scheme to mitigate risks in supply chain security

The global transportation of goods is getting tougher. Organisations operating in high risk countries face daily threats of theft, terrorism, smuggling and product safety in their supply chain. In response, BSI, the business standards company, has launched an independent assessment scheme to assist companies of all sizes to achieve and demonstrate competence in their supply chain security.

ISO 28000, the international standard for supply chain security management, has been developed to help organisations to better assess security risks in their supply chain, manage new threats as they emerge and implement appropriate controls.

Globally over US$23 billion worth of cargo is stolen each year^[1], and the annual number of cargo thefts has risen 24%, exceeding ten-fold the overall increase in merchandise exports.^[2] European countries such as Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands have seen the greatest number of thefts according to BSI's most recent global intelligence report.

Wilson James, a leading provider of security, logistics and business support services in the UK, is the first company be independently assessed by BSI and achieve certification to ISO 28000.

In 2013, the company won the contract to secure the new London Gateway site of global port operator DP World. A key aspect of the selection of a security provider was that the appointed contractor would achieve ISO 28000 certification by the end of 2014.

A supply chain security management system ensures traditional supply chain management practices are followed and matched with vital security measures such as validating supplier credentials, screening cargo and securing cargo transit. Addressing security threats aids the global fight against cargo theft, reassures stakeholders of an organization's commitment to the safety of its people, and the security of goods and services.

The most obvious benefit of certification to ISO 28000 for Wilson James was being able to ensure that client project requirements were met and that the benefits of the standard would be realised across DP World. However, there were also other benefits. "As the first known UK Security Company to achieve ISO 28000 we can deliver high levels of security management to our customers, differentiating us from others and giving us a clear competitive edge, helping our customers recognize the value we can deliver to their business," commented Angela Goldberg, Quality Manager at Wilson James.

"Another important benefit is the reassurance ISO 28000 provides to existing and potential customers and, early indications show it may also save the company money as a result of the introduction of best practice procedures that will in turn lead to improvements in performance and efficiencies," added Goldberg."

Lorna Anderson, Supply Chain Security Scheme Manager at BSI said: "International cargo is the life blood of our global society and essential for countries and companies to reach new markets and achieve growth. Therefore the compromise of supply chains imposes both direct and indirect impacts. These include the cost of managing security incidents, increased insurance premiums, and indirect impacts such as reputational damage and loss of trust resulting in a drain on global productivity.

"By addressing and reducing the impact cargo disruption has on their business and their clients, organisations stand to benefit financially as well as assist international trade."

BSI's top tips for implementing ISO 28000

1. Lead from the top by securing commitment from senior management
2. Involve the whole business through effective internal communication
3. Review existing processes with relevant ISO 28000 requirements
4. Bring your customers and suppliers on board by soliciting feedback on security practices
5. Establish an implementation team to get the best results
6. Map out and share roles, responsibilities and timescales
7. Adapt the requirements of the ISO 28000 standard to your business
8. Motivate staff with training and incentive
9. Encourage staff to train as internal auditors
10. Regularly review to ensure continual improvement

^{[1] BSI 2013 SCREEN Global Intelligence Report
[2] Latest UNCTAD/WTO figures published 14 April 2014}