Security Guarding

Security Industry Authority

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) recognises the importance of structured education and recognised qualifications for security personnel. Individuals working to create safer public and private environments require a broad set of skills, professional conduct and a deep understanding of their duties.

This specification outlines the core learning areas agreed upon by the SIA and key industry stakeholders for qualification and licensing purposes.

Learning Programme Overview

Training for an SIA licence-linked qualification in Security Guarding includes the following core sessions:

  • Session 1: Roles and Responsibilities
  • Session 2: Access and Egress Control
  • Session 3: Electronic and Physical Protection Systems
  • Session 4: Personal Safety
  • Session 5: Drugs Awareness
  • Session 6: Searching
  • Session 7: Patrolling

Session 1: Roles and Responsibilities

Aim:
To understand the key responsibilities and professional functions of a security guard.

Objectives:

  • Identify different security roles within the private sector
  • Understand primary duties associated with each role
  • Explain the benefits and role of a control room

Session 2: Access and Egress Control

Aim:
To understand access control responsibilities and legal compliance.

Objectives:

  • Define the purpose of access/egress control
  • Describe duties related to people, vehicles and property access
  • Understand powers of statutory agencies
  • Recognise unauthorised access methods
  • Explain the importance of queue management

Session 3: Electronic and Physical Protection Systems

Aim:
To understand various protection systems supporting security operations.

Objectives:

  • Identify different types of systems (e.g., alarms, CCTV)
  • Explain how systems assist security personnel
  • Identify common threats to these systems
  • Describe appropriate responses to activations

Session 4: Personal Safety

Aim:
To maintain personal and public safety during duties.

Objectives:

  • Recognise personal safety responsibilities
  • Identify safety risks and hazards
  • Understand conflict risk factors
  • Apply dynamic risk assessments
  • Use protective equipment effectively
  • Know the benefits of body-worn cameras
  • Manage physical intervention boundaries
  • Understand post-incident reflection

Session 5: Drugs Awareness

Aim:
To identify and respond to drug-related concerns.

Objectives:

  • Recognise drug use signs and symptoms
  • Identify indicators of drug dealing
  • Understand safe disposal of drug-related waste

Session 6: Searching

Aim:
To lawfully and safely conduct searches.

Objectives:

  • Identify types of searches and legal rights
  • Use appropriate search equipment
  • Take safety precautions
  • Know vehicle and premises search procedures
  • Respond to refusal or discovery of prohibited items
  • Complete search documentation properly

Session 7: Patrolling

Aim:
To conduct safe and effective patrolling operations.

Objectives:

  • Understand the importance and types of patrol
  • Follow patrol procedures and communication protocols
  • Use check calls and incident response methods
  • Know how to preserve evidence and crime scenes
  • Identify when to notify police

This specification forms part of NCPS’s commitment to delivering regulated and compliant professional training for all security officers operating under our management. For further details, visit the SIA official website or contact NCPS training coordination.