Security specialist Land Sheriffs has recently been awarded the Railway Safety Accreditation Scheme (RSAS) certification by the British Transport Police.
The RSAS is administered by the British Transport Police and applies to organisations involved in railway safety and security. It allows certified organisations to manage low-level crime and anti-social behaviour, enabling British Transport Police officers to focus on core policing duties.
Land Sheriffs’ officers deliver security services aimed at preventing crime, offering reassurance, and assisting vulnerable individuals across the UK rail network. With RSAS certification, these officers are now authorised to address certain incidents and enforce railway byelaws with police-backed authority, contributing to the overall coordination and effectiveness of railway policing.
“We’re very proud to have received our RSAS certification! As a long-standing security provider for the UK rail network, this not only reinforces the quality of our operations, but also underlines our continuing frontline contribution to a safer railway environment,” says James Coyle, Managing Director of Land Sheriffs.
In addition to granting specific powers, RSAS certification involves the sharing of security intelligence and an increased visible security presence on the rail network, supporting staff, officers, and passengers.
The RSAS process acknowledges the standards of management, supervision, and accountability required for certification, as well as the role certified organisations play in deterring crime, disorder, and anti-social behaviour. To obtain certification, Land Sheriffs underwent an audit, and company directors passed enhanced vetting conducted by the British Transport Police. The certification process also includes further training opportunities and extended vetting for additional personnel.
“By achieving RSAS status, we have been formally recognised for our capabilities and commitment to safety and security. For our clients, this reflects our continued professionalism, accountability and protection. For our officers, this allows them to operate with higher levels of training to keep rail network users safer,” adds James.
With around two decades of experience in the sector, Land Sheriffs provides services to rail operators that include asset protection, disruption reduction, and staff and passenger support. Their operations include a 24-hour CCTV control centre and a team of security personnel delivering services such as mobile patrols, manned guarding, on-train security, trespass response, and welfare patrols.
“Our RSAS certification is further proof of our reliability and high standards. It’s another way we’re showing our commitment to continually improving – and that we’re actively helping to innovate, shape and strengthen the rail industry for the better,” concludes James.