Door Supervision

Security Industry Authority

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) recognises the importance of a structured learning programme to ensure door supervisors meet the standards of professionalism and competence expected in today’s security environment.

As the security industry continues to evolve, door supervisors must possess a comprehensive range of skills and a clear understanding of their legal and operational responsibilities. This specification outlines the learning requirements agreed by the SIA and key stakeholders for SIA licence-linked qualifications in door supervision.

Learning Programme Overview

Training leading to an SIA licence-linked qualification for Door Supervisors must cover the following areas:

Session 1: The Law
Session 2: Searching
Session 3: Drugs Awareness
Session 4: Recording Incidents and Crime Scene Preservation
Session 5: Licensing Law
Session 6: Dealing with Queues and Crowds
Session 7: Equipment

Session 1: The Law

Aim:
To understand key legal principles relevant to the role of a door supervisor.

Objectives:

Identify types of assault
Outline common crimes against property
Recognise what constitutes an offensive weapon

Session 2: Searching

Aim:
To understand and conduct effective and lawful searches.

Objectives:

Understand the types and purposes of searches
Know a door supervisor’s legal rights and obligations, including “conditions of entry”
Identify different search equipment and associated hazards
Apply appropriate precautions and actions in case of incidents
Demonstrate search techniques for people and property
Understand search considerations for individuals with diverse needs
Complete search documentation
Know procedures for refusal to search and when prohibited items are found

Session 3: Drugs Awareness

Aim:
To understand issues surrounding drug misuse and enforcement.

Objectives:

Understand legislation relating to drugs
Identify common illegal substances and associated symptoms
Recognise signs of drug dealing and possession
Know procedures for handling and storing seized drugs
Understand correct disposal methods for contaminated waste

Session 4: Recording Incidents and Crime Scene Preservation

Aim:
To accurately record incidents and preserve crime scenes.

Objectives:

Understand the reasons for incident recording and scene preservation
Follow procedures: Contact, Cordon, Contain and Control
Know when to involve the police
Identify types of evidence: witness accounts, CCTV, BWC footage, physical evidence (blood, DNA, fingerprints etc.)

Session 5: Licensing Law

Aim:
To understand the law surrounding licensed premises and responsibilities of licence holders.

Objectives:

Know the licensing objectives
Understand refusal of entry and customer ejection procedures
Be aware of police powers and legal rights of licensees
Understand the role of Designated Premises Supervisors or Premises Managers
Apply laws concerning children, young persons and unlawful conduct
Identify acceptable forms of ID

Session 6: Dealing with Queues and Crowds

Aim:
To manage queues and venue capacity effectively and safely.

Objectives:

Know responsibilities for queue control and safety
Understand crowd dispersal procedures
Communicate effectively throughout the queuing process
Monitor crowd and barrier safety and manage welfare issues
Consider vulnerabilities when refusing entry or ejecting individuals

Session 7: Equipment

Aim:
To safely and effectively use operational and protective equipment.

Objectives:

Use tools for managing capacity (e.g. clickers, facial recognition systems)
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately
Operate body-worn cameras
Communicate using radios, earpieces, and liaise with police or other personnel

This structured learning framework reflects NCPS’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, legality and safety across the security sector. For official information and updates, visit the SIA website.