For full details on the changes happening to SIA licenses, you can visit the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/changes-to-the-training-you-need-for-an-sia-licence
Recently the Security Industry Authority made changes to their training, mainly updating qualifications for all sectors (excluding close protection and vehicle immobilisation). Then also introduced the prerequisite of having a first aid qualification before taking the training for a door supervisor and security guard license.
From October 2021, the Security Industry Authority will be making further changes, this will be introducing updated close protection qualifications and top-up training if needed before applying for a door supervisor and a security guard license (including renewals).
Why are they making these changes?
- To continue to keep the public safe
- To follow new working practices
- To understand recent changes to the law
- To make the best use of new technology
The most significant change in training requirements in the introduction of first aid training. This qualification must be an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification, or equivalent.
Why is it important for a security officer to be trained in emergency first aid?
- To be able to respond appropriately to a medical emergency
- To understand the extent of a person(s) injuries should anti-social behaviour turn to violence
- Should they be responding to an alarm, they may be the first people on the scene, therefore it's important they can act appropriately with first aid should it be required
- To understand exactly when it is safe to intervene, and when to wait for the emergency services to arrive.
- To further hone communication skills if a person(s) is injured
Having security guards able to respond correctly and professionally to a medical emergency makes them even more valuable to a business. This is especially important when considering two key services, our alarm response service and our door supervisor service. With our alarm response service, our security officers may be the first people on the scene, and this might include attending to injured people. For door supervisors, it means being able to help anyone who might be victim to anti-social behaviour and violence or those who could have caused damage to themselves.
For more information on how we can support your business, please don't hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team.
Alternatively, if you're looking to further your career within the security industry, please check the careers section on our website or email us an up to date copy of your C.V. We never subcontract, we invest in training and we work hard to support our staff. We look forward to meeting you.
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