An Important Guide to Understanding SIA Licensing and Obtaining Your SIA Badge

SIA badge is synonymous with security in London and many other places. You have probably seen many of these SIA badge holders around, both on the street and at events. They stand out because of their bright blue color, with prominent information about licensing in white lettering. But do you know what this badge means? Let’s look at obtaining the badge and what it means when someone wears one. Plus, you will get some tips on becoming licensed yourself if that’s something you want to pursue. Let’s get started!

1.   What is an SIA Badge?

If you hire a security guard, you must ensure that they have the legal authority to work in your area. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) issues badges and licenses for all guards working legally. When you hire any security service, it’s essential to confirm that their credentials are up-to-date. Not just so your venue gets proper protection, but also because there may be legal requirements about using certain types of workers based on what kind of business you run.

For example, suppose you work at an airport or railway station in Great Britain. In that case, only some security guards can even work there—and then only under specific circumstances. It’s, therefore, crucial to have your SIA Badge London at hand if you have any interests in the private security industry in London.

2.   What Are the Requirements to Obtain an SIA Badge?

Before you can get an SIA badge and start working as a security guard, you must first obtain a license by completing one of the Individual licensing courses. To do so, you will have to attend a classroom-based training session over several days. You will receive training in compliance and all aspects of your role.

When it comes time for your exams, you will go through multiple practice exams before moving to the final assessments. Once you qualify for a license, you can now apply for an SIA license and SIA badge and start working as a security guard. The badge contains your photo ID, which event organizers and clients use to verify that you are indeed authorized to work as a security guard in London.

So when someone looks at your SIA badge, they’ll be able to see your face, name, date of birth, and any other relevant details such as qualifications or training history. SIA badge helps potential employers confirm that they’re hiring a legitimate security guard who has undergone proper vetting.

3.   Who Needs to Have SIA Business License?

Security Industry Authority (SIA) issues SIA licenses to those working in security-related private-sector jobs. Hence, if you want to work as a door supervisor, CCTV operator, CCTV installer, or any security-related job in the private sector, such as selling and maintaining locks and safes, you need an SIA license.

Anyone working in these roles who doesn’t have an SIA license could face a fine of up to £5000. If a company employs someone without a permit, they can also receive a penalty of up to £1000.

4.   Areas Where You Can Work If You Have an SIA Badge

Areas that require qualified staff with SIA licenses and SIA badges are subject to the Individual Licensing Act (2011) and include land guarding, close protection, and public space surveillance. The roles of SIA licensed individuals may consist of;

·        Protecting Cash and Valuables in Transit

Land guarding may include protecting cash and valuables in transit by monitoring and patrolling public spaces, such as car parks. First aid training might be helpful too!

·        Close Protection

Close protection officers are responsible for protecting their clients from various threats – from physical attacks to cybercrimes – while carrying out their daily activities. Although it may look glamorous, working as close protection guard requires extensive training and loads of paperwork!

·        Public Space Surveillance

Public Space Surveillance Officers or PSSOs, on the other hand, often refer to themselves as ‘bobbies in black’ because they work closely with local police forces. PSSOs ensure people feel safe when using public spaces like shopping centers and large retail outlets. They patrol designated areas of interest and report anything suspicious or criminal activity happening in plain sight or using CCTV footage provided by local businesses or councils.

·        Crowd Control

Crowd Control includes controlling crowds at concerts, festivals, and protests. While protecting individuals in these situations, you also maintain public order and safety through crowd control measures. Also, you have to ensure the protection of everyone’s rights at all times while they are on site.

·        Removal of Vehicles

Removal of vehicles may include wheel clamping, block-booting, and keys holding where authorized under local authority protocols.

Conclusion

Security is paramount whether you work in central London or on a film set. Keep yourself and others safe by making sure you always have your SIA badge with you. You will never know when it might come in handy! Also, if you are interested in working in the private security industry, you can train with Securex Premium Services, get your SIA badge and start working immediately!