In 2021 the SIA made some changes to the training you need to take before you can get or renew a front-line SIA licence.
The changes were:
- New, updated qualifications for all badge holders except close protection and vehicle immobilisation.
- Applicants and renewals must have a first aid qualification before they can take the training required for a door supervisor or security guard licence.
- You must have one of the new qualifications or take top-up training before you can apply for a door supervisor and security guard licence. This includes renewals.
The SIA made changes to the close protection qualification in April 2022:
- From 1 April 2022, you must have the new qualification to apply for a close protection licence. This does not include renewals.
- From 1 October 2022, you must have the new qualification or take top-up training before you can renew your close protection licence.
Why are the SIA making these changes?
They need to demonstrate that security staff working in the private security industry can:
- Keep the public safe
- Follow new working practices
- Understand recent changes to the law
- Make the best use of new technology
First Aid training for door supervisors and security guards
You will need to do this if either of the following applies:
- You are applying for a licence for the first time.
- If it has been longer than 3 years since you last held a licence for that activity
- If you are renewing your licence
The qualification must be an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification or equivalent.
What do we mean by “equivalent”?
- First Aid at Work (FAW)
- First Person on Scene (FPOS)
- First Response Emergency Care (FREC)
First aid training for close protection operatives
- Level 3 First Person on Scene (FPOS)
- Level 3 First Response Emergency Care (FREC)