Back in February, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) announced some key changes in regulation which will come into effect later in 2021. We accept such changes in regulation with open arms as they inevitably result in greater public safety.

The regulations changing in 2021 are twofold:

First aid training has been a requirement for applicants to the “close protection” licence, but now aspiring door supervisor and security guard licences also require first aid training before applying.

Until 1 October 2021, you will only need to undertake first aid training if you are applying for your first licence or if it has been more than three years since you last held said licence.

After 1 October 2021 every applicant will need to hold an “Emergency First Aid at work” (or equivalent) qualification to apply for the above licences.

While this does spell more work for aspiring security guards, being versed in first aid helps to enhance a security guard’s ability to keep the public (and themselves) safe on the job.

After 1 October 2021 those looking to apply for or renew door supervisor or security guard licenses must have either:

• Obtained a new qualification which was set in place in April 2021.
• Undertaken a “top-up” qualification to qualify older licence-linked qualifications under the new regulations.

These two regulation changes will mean some more legwork for current and aspiring security guards. However, the increased level of qualification will not only make for more capable security guards, but they also provide appliable skills which are valuable far beyond the realm of security services.

These responsible new regulations are reasons why we are strong supporters of the SIA, and their commitment to ensuring the highest standards throughout the security industry.

We are excited for our SIA licensed security guards, and those across the country, to all become fully first-aid trained as such a move will undoubtedly result in greater public safety across the board.

For further information regarding the SIA’s updates please visit the government website here.