THE SECURITY INDUSTRY AUTHORITY (SIA)
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the statutory regulatory body for the private security industry in the United Kingdom. It was established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to regulate and license individuals and companies working in the private security sector. The SIA’s primary objective is to improve and maintain high standards of professionalism and competence within the industry, ensuring that those employed in security roles meet the necessary criteria and adhere to the prescribed code of conduct. The SIA is responsible for issuing licenses to security personnel, conducting background checks, and enforcing regulations to ensure the safety and integrity of the private security industry.
TYPES OF SECURITY LICENSES IN THE UK BY THE SIA
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) issues licenses for various roles within the private security industry in the United Kingdom. The licenses are designed to ensure that individuals working in specific security roles meet the required standards of professionalism, competence, and integrity.
Security Guard Licence (SG):
This licence allows individuals to work as security guards, providing general security services, access control, and monitoring duties.
Door Supervisor Licence (DS):
This licence authorizes individuals to work as door supervisors in venues such as bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Door supervisors are responsible for maintaining safety, managing crowd control, and ensuring the security of premises.
Public Space Surveillance (CCTV) Licence:
This licence is required for individuals operating surveillance equipment, specifically CCTV systems, in public areas. They monitor and record activities to ensure public safety and crime prevention.
Close Protection Licence (CP):
This licence is for individuals involved in close protection services, often known as bodyguards. Close protection license holders provide personal security and protection to high-profile individuals, executives, or individuals at risk.
It’s important to note that specific licensing requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of security role. The SIA sets the standards and criteria for licensing, ensuring that individuals holding these licenses meet the necessary qualifications, undergo background checks, and receive proper training to perform their duties effectively and responsibly.
PRIVATE SECURITY COMPANIES AND THE SIA
A private security company is a privately owned organization that provides security services and solutions to individuals, businesses, and organizations. These companies operate independently and offer a wide range of security services, including manned guarding, CCTV surveillance, access control, event security, executive protection, and more.
In the United Kingdom, private security companies are regulated by the Private Security Industry Act 2001 and overseen by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The act sets out the legal framework for the private security industry and aims to ensure professionalism, competence, and ethical conduct among security providers. The SIA, as stated above, is the statutory regulatory body responsible for licensing individuals and companies operating in the private security sector.
According to British law, private security companies and their personnel must comply with several key requirements, including:
Licensing:
Private security companies and their employees must hold the appropriate licenses issued by the SIA. This ensures that individuals working in security roles meet specific standards of competence, integrity, and professionalism.
Training and Qualifications:
Security personnel must undergo relevant training and possess the necessary qualifications for their specific roles. Training programs cover areas such as conflict management, first aid, customer service, and relevant security procedures.
Code of Conduct:
Private security companies and their personnel are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that outlines their responsibilities, obligations, and expected behaviour. This includes respecting individuals’ rights, maintaining confidentiality, and acting within the boundaries of the law.
Background Checks:
Security personnel undergo thorough background checks, including criminal record checks, to ensure they have the necessary integrity and suitability for their roles.
Compliance with Legislation:
Private security companies must comply with relevant legislation, including data protection laws, employment laws, health and safety regulations, and any other laws applicable to their operations.
Accountability and Reporting:
Private security companies are required to maintain accurate records, report incidents, and cooperate with relevant authorities when necessary.
By enforcing these regulations, British law aims to protect the public, maintain high standards of professionalism within the private security industry, and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals, businesses, and organizations that utilize private security services.
CONSEQUENCES OF BREACHING THE LAW
Unfortunately, a number of private security companies were found hiring non-licensed security personnel in order to fulfil their Client’s security requirements. Examples of active prosecution cases can be found on the SIA’s website.
If a private security company is found hiring non-licensed security personnel, may face criminal prosecution.
The case would be brought to court, and if found guilty, the company could receive a criminal conviction and heavy fines.
The SIA may revoke the company’s license to operate in the private security industry. This would effectively prevent the company from providing security services legally.
In addition to legal consequences, hiring non-licensed security personnel can lead to significant damage to a company’s reputation. Clients may lose trust in the company’s ability to provide professional and compliant security services, which can result in the loss of contracts and business opportunities.
HIGHLY RATED PRIVATE SECURITY COMPANY IN LONDON
Spartan Elite Security, is a highly-rated private security company in London, founded in 2017 by Mr Sotiropoulos. It has emerged as the premier choice for specialized protection services catering to luxury venues, VIPs, celebrities, UHNWI, Premier League Clubs and diplomatic missions in the UK.
At Spartan, our team is committed to setting new standards in the security industry. We strive to go above and beyond the legal requirements by empowering our personnel and developing advanced systems and practices. All our personnel and team members have military, law enforcement and security backgrounds. This allows our personnel to identify, assess, face and eliminate any risk, challenge or threat that may emerge. Spartan’s personnel are equipped with diverse expertise that allows them to achieve the highest operational performance for every assignment.
As a company, Spartan Elite Security maintains a constant focus on reviewing standards and staying up to date with current legislation. In recent years, we have attracted exceptional individuals who share our commitment to excellence. Our experienced security managers and officers not only adhere to our practices but also embody them, taking pride in being part of our skilled and distinctive team.
Every client at Spartan is assigned a dedicated security manager who remains readily available at all times. We strongly believe in the importance of communication as a vital component for fostering excellence and building enduring and meaningful business relationships.
A quick look at our impressive and constantly growing client portfolio along with testimonials of services are testaments of our professionalism and operational standards. We take pride in our professionalism and value the feedback of every client individually.
Main Services
We have established 3 main service categories:
The above service categories are based on the security licence that is required in order to cover the requirements of our clients.
All enquiries and communications are treated at the strictest of confidence.
Get in touch today with our dedicated team of experts that will provide expert advice and personalised security solutions tailored around your needs.
FIND US
Spartan Headquarters
6th Floor, International House
223 Regent Street
Mayfair
London
W1B 2QD
Telephone: + 44 (0) 800 933 0000
Email: info@spartanelitesecurity.co.uk
Website: www.spartanelitesecurity.co.uk