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Popular SIA Security Training Options
The three most popular training choices in the Security Industry are Door Supervisor Training, Security Guard Training and CCTV Surveillance Training, all three options are based around approximately three day intensive courses and include around four modules of around ten hours each. There are a surprising number of qualifications related to these roles; some you may not have thought were relevant.
Many people assume that these particular professions are based solely on common sense and, with the exception perhaps of CCTV Training, (which requires specific instruction on the use of sensitive equipment) don’t require any particular skill or knowledge, this is a misconception. Here are a few guidelines to clarify exactly what’s required in these often challenging and rewarding roles.
In the case of Door Supervisors and to some extent Security Guards, there are certain behavioural standards to be met which are set out by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). In addition to appropriate behaviour there is also a requirement for security staff to clearly understand the legality of their jobs especially in relation to drug legislation, personal search procedures and crime scene preservation.
Obviously, for security employees who are dealing with the general public, conflict management is a crucial element of any security staff training which is largely based on the careful assessment of situations, how to reduce risk and specifically applied communication tactics especially in relation to emotive situations. There will inevitably be circumstances when Door Supervisors or Security Guards are involved in some form of physical intervention, so it’s vital that all candidates appreciate the importance of this strategy to protect themselves and others from harm.
Health and safety as a whole is a crucial training element too. Although emergency procedures may vary depending on the venue, there are certain standard measures that all security staff needs to be aware of particularly when they are employed at big public events or by large private organisations such as office blocks, shopping centres or in public places like hospitals.
In the case of CCTV Training there are additional modules which cover the appropriate use of equipment; however ‘appropriate use’ doesn’t only mean pointing the camera in the right direction or dusting the monitors occasionally. The term ‘appropriate use’ relates to the security of the device/s, the room where the equipment is housed and any recorded information. CCTV now plays a vital role in our general safety on a daily basis and in some cases can be used as evidence in criminal proceedings, so, as well as training to use the equipment expertly conserving your observations is crucial too.
In all three cases, Door Supervisors, Security Guards and CCTV Operatives work in harmony and often all three disciplines will be deployed at the same public event or in the same building; so naturally you need to be the kind of person who enjoys working as a team and also a good communicator. Part of the training will guide candidates in how to communicate incidents precisely as well as how to record these events without prejudice.
The reason the Security Industry Training bar is raised so high, is to eliminate injustices and the calibre of the employees are carefully scrutinised to ensure that honesty and integrity prevail in all areas of the industry, and this includes the training providers themselves. The final goal of your training is to receive your SIA Licence. If you come into contact with a training provider who doesn’t specify this rule then avoid them at all costs; and that includes even if the training is cheaper or quicker. You can’t work in the security industry without your SIA Licence and anyone who tells you otherwise is placing you and themselves at the risk of a criminal conviction and a hefty fine.
Most reputable training providers will have on-line help facilities – use these wisely, get all the information you need up-front and ask all the questions you like. Your future in this fast growing industry relies on expert training don’t settle for anything less.
