News & Articles

Operation Raptor Ensuring Professionalism

08 January 2010

For those working within the Security Industry without the required SIA Training or SIA licence, there has never been a better time to ensure that you take the necessary steps to obtain your SIA licence. The Security Industry Authority has recently been recognised by the Scottish Police Services Authority for their tough stance on ensuring compliance with the SIA licensing requirements. Operation Raptor in itself was the largest crackdown by the Security Industry Authority and Strathclyde Police to rid the Security Industry of unlicensed security operatives.

While the operation concentrated on unlicensed security operatives working on building sites connected with organised criminal activity, it is a timely warning for those working in the industry without a SIA licence. The Security Industry Authority has shown the tough prosecutorial stance that will be taken against those found to be engaged in the profession without a valid licence. The SIA takes a tough stance against those who flout the SIA licensing laws for a very good reason; by ensuring that everyone in the industry has received the appropriate training and holds the appropriate SIA licence the community can be assured that they are being served by accountable and trustworthy security operatives.

Many security operatives have failed to attend the required SIA training which allows them to gain their SIA licence and in many instances because they think it is not necessary or in some circumstances because they think they won’t get caught. With some of the very large fines being provided by the courts for those in the security industry working without the appropriate security licence, it is a timely warning that the end result is not worth the chance. The process of obtaining an SIA licence is relatively streamlined and starts with those wishing to enter the security industry attending at an accredited SIA training program. The SIA training program is an ideal method of providing future security providers with the skills sets and knowledge which is required to maintain professionalism in the industry and also to ensure that the operatives are well placed to deal with any situation that they may encounter.  

The Security Industry Authority has gone to great lengths to increase the accountability and professionalism displayed within the Security Industry and it can be rightly assumed that they are going to take all necessary steps to ensure the rules are adhered to.  By contacting and seeking the guidance of a reputable security training provider, those looking to enter the Security Industry, can be assured that they will be given the training and competencies which will see them become a successful and innovative addition to today’s security profession which strives to attain the highest standards possible. With so many career opportunities in the Security Profession it makes sense to do it right at that the start of your security career allowing you can prosper from the advantages that it a career as a security professional will bring you. While for some Operation Raptor may have been seen as an unnecessary investigation, it has defiantly increased the public’s confidence in the professionalism of the Security Industry.