Understanding Equality Laws In The Security Industry

While on duty, private security operatives are expected to deal with issues concerning diversity and equality. According to the equality act 2010, it is a legal requirement for security professionals to provide the same quality of service to everyone while carrying out the tasks assigned to them.

During your SIA Security Training, you will explore in detail the various checks and balances are in place to ensure that the security professionals do not discriminate. To get you started, here are a few key factors all security operatives must be mindful of when dealing with diverse customer groups:

Stereotyping

When a simplified and standardised conception or image of a person, group, etc is attributed to each and every member of the group and discriminated against accordingly. It is significant that the conduct of security operatives is seen to be impartial at all times. Before the enactment of the Equality Act 2010, multiple legislations dealt with equality, diversity and discrimination issues.

Direct discrimination

Treating a person unfavourably because of a protected characteristic.

Indirect Discrimination

Applying a condition, practice or requirement to everyone, even if that puts a person with a protected characteristic at disadvantage.

Harassment

Unwanted conduct (associated with a protected characteristic) that creates an offensive environment for an individual or that violates the dignity of an individual

Victimisation

Treating a person less favourably than others because of the protected act of the person like a previous complaint.

Prejudice

An irrational attitude of hostility directed against an individual, a group, a race or their supposed characteristics.

How to work in the security sector

If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain an SIA Licence.

To obtain an SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.

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