From 10 January 2005 the Security Industry Authority (SIA) will start to accept requests for licence application packs for the latest sectors to be licensed under the new national licensing scheme for the private security industry in England and Wales. On 20 March 2006, it will be a legal requirement for those working in the four new licensable security sectors to hold an SIA licence.
The four new licensable security sectors are:
Security GuardingOpen for licensing  10 January 2005
Licenses required by 20 March 2006
Cash & Valuables in TransitOpen for licensing  10 January 2005
Licenses required by 20 March 2006   Â
CCTV Public Space SurveillanceOpen for licensing  27 June 2005
Licenses required by 20 March 2006  Â
Close Protection
Open for licensing  1 September 2005
Licenses required by 20 March 2006
Spreading the licensing process will ensure businesses continue to run smoothly while employees go through the licensing process. The SIA will also introduce a system for businesses to request application forms on behalf of their employees and to return them to the SIA in bulk.
To gain an SIA licence, applicants will need to attend an approved training course, attain a nationally recognised qualification and undergo identity and criminal records checks.
Anyone involved in licensable sectors and who works under contract will need to be licensed. This includes employees, managers, supervisors and directors of security companies.
Licensing does not extend to those who are employed in-house.
Notes to Editors:
- The introduction of licensing dates may be subject to change. In such cases the SIA will publicise any alterations.
- There are two types of licence:
- A front line licence for operatives – those who carry out security activities.
- A non-front line licence – which is in the form of a letter for non-front line staff, such as managers and directors.Â
- A guide to the limited bulk application process can be requested from bulkapplications@the-sia.org.ukÂ
- Details will also be posted on the SIA website
Issued by the Security Industry Authority Communications Office
Media enquiries only please contact:
Robert Buxton020 7227 3643