SINGAPORE - From next year, security agencies may not take up contracts that do not include clauses that deal with disputes and prompt payment, and a clause that allows for termination of contract by either the security service provider or buyer.

The Security Industry Council said these clauses, and another that deals with limitation of liquidated damages, will form the framework for all new private security workforce contracts from the start of 2019.

The security industry comprises about 47,000 active security officers, 600 security service providers and 240 security agencies.

The panel was formed last year to raise productivity in the security sector. It is made up of the Association of Certified Security Agencies, the Security Association Singapore and the Union of Security Employees, an NTUC affiliate.

The introduction of standard clauses was announced at a seminar for private security buyers on Thursday (March 1). They are part of a wider set of changes designed to move security buyers from a manpower-based approach to one based on outcome, as revealed in the Industry Transformation Map (ITM) last month.

"This is in line with what was shared at the ITM launch where security outsourcing should focus on security outcomes first rather than cheapest quote basis," said Mr Steve Tan, executive secretary of the Union of Security Employees.

"We are helping to share that framework with all buyers from commercial, industrial and residential sectors."

At the seminar, the council shared examples of the security-outcome approach which included response time to a crisis and the use of technology.

The council also provided a guideline for welfare provisions by security agencies at the seminar.

Among other things, security agencies are to ensure officers get adequate rest, including three breaks for 12 hour shifts, and display signage to deter violence against officers.