The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) reports progress in the accreditation of locksmiths by playing a role in the Vehicle Security Data Group (VSDG).
The association is managing the approval route for locksmiths to become accredited for access to security data from vehicle manufacturers and trusted third party data holding companies.
A pilot project in the UK is involving two major manufacturers, to look into the practicalities of getting locksmiths accredited and the security data to them, for them in turn to assist stranded motorists. For locksmiths to be entered on the accredited locksmiths database, there’s a Criminal Records Bureau check, an auto-locksmithing exam to pass, and the signing up to a code of practice which stipulates insurance requirements.
What they say
Richard Childs, independent chairman of the VSDG said “The work of the VDSG is really important to car owners. Not only could the work lead to it being easier for those who have problems with their car’s security systems to gain access, but the way that the MLA is planni ng to regulate the process will provide some real and essential guarantees that the security of the car is not compromised in the process. Naturally, car manufactures are eager to preserve the integrity of car security, but the work of the MLA and the VDSG balances this quite proper desire with the need to help motorists immediately when they have a problem with the security systems of their car”.
Steffan George, director of Business Development for the MLA added “The MLA firmly believe that when choosing to use a locksmith, the end customer has the right to expect them to be appropriately vetted. This is as true for the general public as it is for the vehicl e manufacturers who need to know they can trust the personnel they are providing this sensitive data to.”
For more information on this scheme
Contact either Steffan George at the MLA or Michael Hinchliffe, the secretary of the VSDG.
