The BS EN 15713:2023 standard has brought significant updates to secure data destruction practices. Officially replacing the 2009 version in September 2023, it reflects the evolving landscape of data protection. By April 2024, all UKSSA members, including Shredall SDS Group, had been audited against this updated standard, ensuring full compliance with the latest requirements. Shredall SDS Group achieved this in September 2024.
At Shredall SDS Group, we’re proud to be fully compliant with the updated standard, giving our clients peace of mind that their sensitive data is securely managed at every stage – from collection through to destruction. Here's everything you need to know about the changes and how we are adhering to them.
What is BS EN 15713?
BS EN 15713 is the UK version of the European standard for securely destroying confidential and sensitive materials. It provides a comprehensive framework for the entire destruction process, covering the collection, handling, transportation, storage, and final destruction of materials to prevent data breaches and leaks. This ensures that sensitive information is protected throughout its lifecycle, minimising the risk of data breaches and leaks.
Updated in September 2023, the standard was revised to keep pace with the evolving data protection landscape. The previous version, from 2009, no longer aligned with modern privacy and security requirements, making the update essential for meeting the demands of today's information managers.
BS EN 15713 should be the first port of call for any organisation looking to improve its secure data destruction processes. The standard places emphasis on guaranteeing the secure destruction service, ensuring that staff who are involved in the confidential shredding business are security vetted to BS 7858, vehicles are secure, premises are alarmed and monitored and confidential material is processed and destroyed correctly.
The BSIA guidance on BS EN 15713
The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has recently added new guidance to their guidelines. The BSIA emphasises the significance of proper information destruction, for businesses to mitigate the risks associated with identity fraud and data breaches. They highlighted the importance of selecting a reputable information destruction supplier that can guarantee secure and compliant destruction processes.
With legislation now imposing financial penalties on companies that fail to keep their data safe, securing your confidential data is crucial. BS EN 15713 is the European standard on data destruction.
How has BS EN 15713 changed?
The standard has grown from 12 to 21 clauses, reflecting a greater focus on data protection and regulations. Some key changes include:
- Updated rules for destroying confidential materials: These changes help align with modern data protection practices and ensure brand safety.
- Alignment with major regulations: The standard now follows rules like GDPR and international guidelines such as ISO 27001, which was updated in 2022.
- New categories for sensitive materials: The standard now introduces more detailed classifications to account for the varying types of sensitive data that need protection, reflecting an evolving understanding of privacy and security risks.
These updates show a stronger focus on keeping data safe, business continuity, and meeting global security standards.
How do we adhere to BS EN 15713:2023?
At Shredall SDS Group, we strictly adhere to the BS EN 15713:2023 standard, ensuring our processes meet the highest security and data protection requirements. Our arrangements have been officially approved by the UK Security Shredding Association (UKSSA) and NQA, as part of our latest ISO 27001:2022 audit, reflecting our commitment to maintaining top-tier document shredding and data destruction practices.
In addition to this, we are fully compliant with industry-leading certifications and accreditations, including ISO 9001 and ISO 27001, demonstrating our dedication to safeguarding confidential information. These certifications reinforce our commitment to upholding the highest standards of security, reliability, and privacy in everything we do.
How does this benefit our customers?
By adhering to this standard, Shredall SDS Group provides clients with the confidence that their sensitive data is being securely destroyed in full compliance with GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
Customers can expect:
- Peace of mind: With our certified document shredding and data destruction services, your data is securely handled and destroyed to prevent unauthorised access.
- Regulatory compliance: Adhering to BS EN 15713:2023 helps businesses meet legal obligations under data protection laws, avoiding penalties.
- Transparency: Customers receive a Certificate of Destruction for every service, ensuring transparency and accountability.
By choosing Shredall SDS Group, you are partnering with a trusted provider committed to the highest level of security and compliance for all your confidential document shredding and data destruction needs.
