In order to obtain an SIA licence you will need to show that you are trained to the right level. This applies to front-line staff only.

In setting standards for training we have taken into account the changing roles of those already employed in the industry and the requirements for new skills and knowledge.

To get one of the qualifications linked to Close Protection licensing you will need to attend a training course and take and pass an exam.

Training is delivered as follows:

Knowledge and practical skills training (minimum 150 hours)

• Introduction to the roles and responsibilities of the close protection operative
• Threat and risk assessment
• Surveillance awareness
• Operational planning
• Law and legislation
• Interpersonal skills
• Close protection team work
• Reconnaissance
• Close protection foot techniques
• Route selection
• Use of close protection vehicle techniques
• Search awareness
• Incidents and dilemmas
• Venue based security
• Communication and conflict management skills

When applying for your licence you will be required to produce evidence that you have attained a recognised first aid award. You should present your valid first aid certificate to your training provider before you start your training. If you do not have a recognised first aid award you will need to get one in order to get your licence. This is in addition to the minimum 150 hours knowledge and practical skills training.

First aid awards recognised by the SIA are:

• First Aid at Work - 4 day course (HSE approved)
• First Person on Scene (FPOS) Intermediate Award - 30 hours (Edexcel / IHCD)

Other certificated first aid courses relevant to Close Protection will be approved in due course. If you already have some other form of first aid training you may wish to have it accredited as prior learning towards the FPOS qualification - please contact Edexcel/IHCD.

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Accreditation of Prior Learning

If you already have some form of formal close protection training it may mean that you are exempt from all or part of the SIA approved training.

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Overseas Qualifications

If you hold a qualification in security or a security-related discipline which was obtained overseas you may be exempt from part of the SIA approved training.

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Licence Renewals and Training

The qualifications linked to SIA licensing will remain current for licensing purposes until we change our core competency specifications, and we will not be doing this until after the first round of licence renewals. Until we do so, you will not need to undergo refresher training or undertake a new qualification when renewing your existing licence.