The role of the security guard is vital to the UK job market, with security guard jobs available in banks, hotels, government buildings and more. Right now, licensed security guards are in demand in the UK – and in this guide, we’ll explore the requirements and training needed to become a security guard.
Understanding the Role of a Security Guard
A security guard’s role is to keep a place, group of people, or items safe. Security guards work in a number of locations, including banks, schools, shops and government organisations. Security guard jobs include monitoring systems such as security cameras and alarms and dealing with incidents such as trespassing. In short, security guards, supported by thorough security guard training, are key to maintaining safety and order.
Basic Qualifications Required for Security Guard Positions
To get a security guard licence in the UK, a person must be at least eighteen. It’s also important to have a clean criminal record and to pass a DBS check – this can be done online, through the government website. Some jobs feature DBS checks as part of the application process. While there are no specific educational requirements, good GCSEs can help to boost an individual’s application.
The Importance of Physical and Mental Fitness
Security guard training is physically demanding, as is the job itself. It involves long hours standing, and there’s always a possibility of physical confrontation. In terms of mental fitness, security guards need to be alert, have good decision making skills, and be adept at managing their own stress. Regular exercise is an effective way to improve and maintain physical and mental fitness.
Comprehensive Training Programs for Security Guards
To obtain a security guard licence in the UK, potential security guards must take a UK Security Officer Licensing Course, which includes essential security guard training. Upon completion of the course, proof must be submitted to the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The course covers many of the different roles and responsibilities of a security guard across a variety of settings.
Certifications and Licences Needed to Become a Security Guard
There’s more than one type of SIA licence. These include door supervisor, CCTV operator and more, all of which require specialised training.
Additional certifications that are likely to be beneficial include first aid and fire safety training, particularly when it comes to Close Protection Security.
Ongoing Skill Development and Continuous Education
Having or working towards a security guard licence means that it’s important to stay up to date with industry trends and regulations – there is always room for skill development, particularly in areas such as customer service, technology use and advanced security techniques. Many security guards undertake additional security guard training over the course of their careers, as this can offer opportunities for career advancement.
Client-Centred Training: Tailoring Skills to Meet Specific Needs
As mentioned, there are several types of SIA licence, so it’s important for security guards to be trained in skills that match specific job roles, such as event security and close protection security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What qualifications do you need to become a security guard?
A. An SIA security guard licence is essential. Security guards also benefit from fire safety and first aid training, and it’s also helpful to have good GCSEs.
Q. What is the requirement of a security guard?
A. Security guards are required for a number of roles, such as monitoring alarm systems, retail security and construction site security.
Q. What does SIA training involve?
A. SIA training involves learning about the various tasks a security guard might need to carry out (such as conflict management and door security). It takes place over around four days and features several exams.
Q. How do you want to be a security guard?
A. There are lots of roles for a security guard, such as CCTV remote monitoring, corporate security and warehouse security, so it’s possible to find a job that appeals to you and then work towards your security guard licence.
Looking for security for an event, corporation, construction site or anything else? All Time Security can provide it. Contact us today to learn more.
