The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is making some changes to the training applicants need to take before obtaining a frontline SIA licence. These changes will happen in April and October 2021.
The changes are:
The SIA says it needs to make sure that people working in the private security industry can:
The SIA says it already expects applicants for a close protection licence to complete a first aid qualification before taking their licence-linked training.
From 1 April 2021, the SIA will also expect applicants for a door supervisor or security guard licence to do the same.
You will need to do this if either of the following apply:
From 1 October 2021, you will also need to do this if you are renewing your licence.
The qualification must be an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification or equivalent.
What is meant by “equivalent”?
The SIA says it will accept other qualifications that comply with the relevant guidance from the Health and Safety Executive. Some examples are:
From 1 October 2021, you must have one of the following before you can apply for a door supervisor or security guard licence:
This applies to any applications submitted on or after 1 October, including renewals. If you submit your application before this date, you will not need take additional training.
More relevant course material
The SIA has moved training that is critical for all sectors to the ‘common unit’ (taken by all security operatives). This includes new training on:
The SIA has introduced new sector-specific content – for example:
More practical assessments
The SIA has increased the number of practical elements in the training to help learners reinforce their knowledge. The practical assessments include:
The SIA has produced a helpful guide of answers to common questions asked about the new changes, which can be accessed here: Changes to SIA licence-linked training – Your questions answered
This news story is in partnership with Barbour EHS, a specialist information service provider supporting professionals across sectors including fire and security, FM, health and safety, sustainability and energy.
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My son is a guard but has aspergers and is starting to panic about having to take a first aid course.
His licence runs out in August so will he need to have the qualification this time?
Is there a support plan to assist people like my son get through any exams?
Hi Donald. I’d advise it’s best to contact the SIA directly on this one. On their home page (http://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/security-industry-authority) there is a section with a ‘Contact form’ you can fill out, as well as a business support line.
Am I reading this correctly in that DS and SG need a First Aid certificate when renewing their licences but no mention of the need for CP to do so? Seems a bit odd!
That because we have to complete and pass first aid during our cp course.
I am talking about when renewing licences not on gaining first licences Paul.
How can we do first aid with us being in lockdown?
Who has to pay for this 90% are on minimum wage