When the SIA was established in 2003, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) conducted a broad examination of the entire security industry. Their results showed that the industry was too often encumbered by poor standards and practices, yet crying out for positive change.

One of the main duties of the SIA is the compulsory licencing of individuals working in designated sectors of the private security industry. The SIA remit currently covers England, Wales and Scotland.

Whether or not an individual requires a licence is determined by the role that is performed and the activity that is undertaken. These are described fully in Section 3 and Schedule 2 of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (as amended).

The activities defined as licencable by the Act are:

• Manned guarding, which includes:                                    
  • Cash and Valuables in Transit
  • Close Protection
  • Door Supervision
  • Public Space Surveillance (CCTV)
  • Security Guard
  • Immobilisation, restriction and removal of vehicles

It is against the law for security officers to work without a licence. 

In-house security operatives (i.e. those not supplied under a contract for services) invariably do not need an SIA licence, except where the individual operates in relation to licensed premises (e.g. bars, clubs, venues, restaurants).

The initial five day training course provided to our staff is fully compliant with the recent government legislation.  This legislation requires all Security Officers, Operational and Management staff to be licensed; and is controlled and inspected by the SIA.  a1 Security has been approved by the SIA to be a bulk SIA licence sponsor, therefore we are able to apply for a licence on behalf of all staff and candidates, once this training has been successfully completed. 

All staff are on the licence checker, so if there are any concerns we are informed immediately by the SIA.