At the start of this month, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) announced that all licensed security guards and door supervisors will need to complete new top-up training (raising performance standards) and to hold a first aid qualification to renew their licence.

The training includes “updated counter-terror training and advice for emergencies and incidents”. As security personnel are very often the first on the scene at major incidents, anything that improves their ability to respond effectively should be viewed as a positive step.

The SIA has outlined 4 key drivers behind the updates to its qualifications, stating that the changes are being made “to make sure that people working in the private security industry can keep the public safe, follow new working practices, understand recent changes to the law and make the best use of new technology”. Practical elements of the qualifications’ assessments will now “include searching, dealing with conflict, report/statement writing and using communication devices”. The new training also includes “refreshed physical intervention training” for door supervisors.

As the SIA’s Acting Chief Executive, Michelle Russell, notes in the announcement: “These changes reflect the extensive feedback and input over the last 3 years from those on the ground involved in working to keep the communities they serve as safe as possible.”

Russell also references the importance of “operatives hav[ing] the knowledge and skills to deal with common risks, especially in safety critical areas.” We welcome any developments that add skills and professionalism to the security industry. We share a common goal with the SIA “to protect the public and raise standards in private security.”

The changes will be rolled out over the next 3 years, as current licensed security guards and door supervisors are only required to complete the top-up training once they come to renew their licence.

Alongside the new training requirements, the SIA announced that Door Supervision licence holders will now have the flexibility to renew to a Security Guarding licence. “Operatives are advised to consider their day-to-day duties and how they are deployed before renewing.”

The changes follow updates to the public space surveillance (CCTV) course earlier this year, and an updated Close Protection qualification is expected to be launched on 1^st April 2022.

The SIA is responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK, reporting to the Home Secretary under the Private Security Industry Act 2001. The organisation’s duties include “the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme.”

Security services – including licensed security guards – from ESA Risk

ESA Risk’s security services – including professional concierge security and front-of-house services manned by highly trained security officers who are all licensed by the SIA – are provided through our joint venture with Marpol Security, a member of the Approved Contractor Scheme.

If you have a security need, we offer a free, high-quality assessment that can help you identify what services are critical for your sites. Whether it is a one-off service or the provision of long-term security arrangements, we are equipped to respond to your needs with a range of services that will safeguard you and your business.

For more information, contact Liam Doherty, Security Consultant, by email, via our online form or by calling +44 (0)843 515 8686.