Did you know there are over 140,700 security guards working in the UK as of 2024? Dozens of individuals undergo security guard training each year to enter the security industry, contributing to the safety, protection, and well-being of individuals across the country. However, many people are sceptical about the role of security guards and the legal power they hold. One question often asked is: Can security guards touch your bags in the UK?
If you’re considering a career as a security guard in the UK, understanding your rights and responsibilities is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore the legal boundaries of a security guard’s authority, helping you prepare for the role while respecting the rights of individuals.
What Are Security Guards Legally Allowed to Do?
In the UK, security guards operate under private law and do not have the same powers as police officers. However, they are authorised to perform certain duties within the boundaries of the law, including:
- Protecting private property.
- Preventing theft and trespass.
- Assisting in maintaining order in public and private spaces.
While these responsibilities are significant, security guards must adhere to strict legal guidelines to avoid infringing on individuals’ rights.
Can Security Guards Touch Your Bags?
So, are security guards allowed to touch–and search–a person’s bags? The simple answer is: no, security guards in the UK do not have the legal right to touch or search anybody’s bags without their consent. If you refuse to authorise a search, they cannot touch your property.
This, of course, means that you may lose certain privileges. For instance, if you don’t consent to a security guard searching your bag when entering a private property where bag inspection is part of the entry policy, it’s likely that you will be denied entry.
That said, there are certain situations in which security guards can check your bags without your consent. These include:
- Checking unattended bags for potential bomb threats.
- Checking bags to find identification documents if you’re unconscious.
- Checking bags to find medication to assist you in a health crisis.
Recommended read: What Security Guards Can and Can’t Do.
So, what happens if a security guard suspects someone of stealing and wants to inspect their bag? In this case, they will ask the individual for a bag search. If the person refuses, the security guard can detain them on suspicion of concealing stolen items in their bag. However, they cannot legally perform a search and will wait for a police officer to arrive and conduct one.
Can Security Guards Detain You?
This brings us to the next frequently asked question: Can security guards detain you?
Here’s the thing; security guards have the right to perform a citizen’s arrest under Section 24A of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. However, this only applies if they have reasonable grounds to believe that the person in question has committed an indictable offence, such as theft or assault.
Additionally, security guards may detain people if they have reason to believe that the person may cause harm to themselves or others, damage property, or leave the scene before the police arrive.
Guidelines for Detaining Individuals
- Reasonable force: Security guards can use reasonable force to detain someone but must avoid excessive or unnecessary force. Misuse of force can lead to legal repercussions.
- Clear communication: Explaining the reason for detention is crucial to ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings.
- Contacting the police: Detained individuals should be handed over to the police promptly.
Why Security Guard Training Is Essential
Understanding whether security guards can touch your bags or detain you is fundamental for anyone aspiring to join the security industry. By respecting legal boundaries and undergoing proper training, you can ensure that you not only uphold the law but also provide a safe and professional service.
Without adequate training, security guards risk overstepping their authority, which can lead to disputes, legal action, or damage to their employer’s reputation. By completing a recognised training program, aspiring security guards gain the confidence to handle challenging situations responsibly.
They can also take their training a step further by upgrading their role to a door supervisor.
The Role of Training in Navigating Legal Boundaries
Understanding these legal nuances is essential for anyone pursuing a career in the security industry. Proper training equips security guards with the knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively while respecting individuals’ rights.
A comprehensive security guard training course covers key topics such as:
- Legal rights and responsibilities.
- Conflict management and de-escalation techniques.
- The principles of citizen’s arrest.
- Effective communication skills.
Begin Your Journey with Get Licensed
Ready to take the first step towards joining the UK’s security industry? Sign up for the professional training courses offered by Get Licensed. Our comprehensive Security Guard Training course is tailored to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field and is the first step towards obtaining an SIA Security Guard licence.
This course covers everything from legal responsibilities to practical techniques, ensuring you’re fully prepared to handle the challenges of the job. We also provide an SIA Top-Up Refresher Security Guard Course for individuals who wish to renew their SIA licence.
Book your SIA training course and get started today!
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