Security Guard Training

Under the Private Security Act of 2001 all individuals wishing to work in the private security industry must hold a recognised qualification before applying for a licence. Individuals working in the private security industry must undergo a structured training programme, resulting in one of the recognised security qualifications. Applicants who do not hold a qualification endorsed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) may have their licence application refused.

The SIA has developed a competency (skills) requirement. The aim of this is to create a more competent and professional workforce, which will in turn improve the public image of the private security industry and help make the sector more attractive to potential employees

The qualification comprises 3 mandatory units:

• Unit 1 - Working in the Private Security Industry
• Unit 2 - Working as a Security Officer
• Unit 3 - Conflict Management for the Private Security Industry

This qualification can enable the learner to progress onto the NVQ in Providing Security Services or undertake further learning in other areas of the private security industry such as CCTV Operations or Door Supervision.

Assessment

Unit 1 - Working in the Private Security Industry

• 25-question multiple-choice examination paper.
• Successful candidates must achieve a score of at least 18 out of 25
• Examination duration - 40 minutes
• Guided learning hours for this unit are 10 hours.

Unit 2 - Working as a Security Officer

• 40-question multiple-choice examination paper.
• Successful candidates must achieve a score of at least 28 out of 40
• Examination duration - 1 hour
• Guided learning hours for this unit are 8 hours.

Unit 3 - Conflict Management for the Private Security Industry

• 25-question multiple-choice examination paper.
• Successful candidates must achieve a score of at least 18 out of 25
• Examination duration - 40 minutes
• Guided learning hours for this unit are 8 hours.