SIA launches consultation on top-up training for door supervisors and security officers

The top-up training for door supervisors and security officers will include key elements of the new content that the SIA is introducing to licence-linked qualifications in April next year.

The SIA has developed top-up training to make sure current door supervisor and security guarding licence holders have the same basic skills and knowledge as new entrants achieving the updated qualifications.

From October 2021, door supervisors and security officers will need to complete top-up training before they renew their licence.

The SIA is inviting stakeholders to have their say and to take part in the consultation which will continue until 25 September 2020.

Industry consultation and engagement

Tony Holyland, head of quality and standards for the SIA, stated: “The new licence-linked qualifications will better equip operatives to work in the private security industry. They reflect what we have learned from extensive industry consultation and engagement.”

He continued: “By introducing this top-up training, we will be bringing the skills of existing licence holders up-to-date. Our aim is to improve the basic skills, knowledge and understanding of security operatives such that they can do their jobs more effectively. This will help to improve community safety and protect the public in the UK.”

Further, Holyland stated: “A key element of our role as the regulator is to work with the industry to raise standards in private security. The new requirements will help us to achieve this aim.”

Inclusions for top-up instruction

The SIA is including the following in top-up training:

Door Supervisors
• An Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (required to take top-up training)
• Use of equipment
• Updated terror threat awareness
• Physical intervention skills training (knowledge and practical)

Security Officers
• An Emergency First Aid At Work qualification (required to take top-up training)
• Knowledge of physical intervention
• Updated terror threat awareness