Guidance for Private Security Companies on the Management of Weapons and Materiel of War

Private security companies (PSCs) are at risk of becoming a weak link in efforts to prevent the diversion of weapons and materiel of war. Not only does diversion damage the reputations, operational performance, and profitability of PSCs, but it can also lead to destabilization on a local and national level.

Together with the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA), and supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, we have produced Guidance for Private Security Companies on the Management of Weapons and Materiel of War—a guidance document to support PSCs in the management of weapons and materiel of war. The guide particularly focuses on how PSCs can mitigate diversion by preventing theft, loss, corruption, misuse, and poor accounting.

Rooted in the principles of the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers and aligned with internationally recognized frameworks such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the guidance offers a comprehensive approach to managing weapons and materiel of war. It builds on the management indicators previously published by ICoCA and complements technical resources like MOSAIC and the International Ammunition Technical Guidelines.

It is structured around key themes including:

• Legal compliance: Emphasizing the need for PSCs to remain abreast of and aligned with both domestic regulations and international obligations related to arms control and transfers.
• Security and inventory management: Promoting best practices to secure storage, accountability, and traceability of weapons and materiel at all times.
• Personnel management: Highlighting the importance of robust recruitment, training, and retention policies to ensure those handling weapons and materiel are competent and trustworthy.
• Equipment serviceability: Encouraging systems to maintain, repair, and properly dispose of equipment to minimize risk and prolong operational life.
• Safety and incident reporting: Advocating for a ‘safety first’ mindset and formal procedures for reporting and investigating incidents to ensure continuous improvement.

Though primarily aimed at management-level personnel within PSCs, this guidance is also relevant to field operators, trainers, and private or public clients seeking to understand the responsibilities involved in weapons and materiel management. It supports a culture of accountability, transparency, and professionalism across the private security sector.

ICoCA and the Small Arms Survey extend their sincere thanks to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for its support, as well as to the private security companies that provided valuable input during the development of the guidance.