For anyone working in the private security industry in the UK, staying informed about changes to Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulations is crucial. The SIA continually updates its requirements to ensure high standards and public safety, and significant changes are coming into effect from April 1, 2025. These updates primarily focus on mandatory refresher training and first aid qualifications for licence renewals.
Key Changes Coming in April 2025:
Mandatory Refresher Qualification: If you hold a Door Supervisor or Security Guard licence, you will now be required to complete a new ‘refresher’ training course before you can renew your licence. This is not optional; your licence renewal will depend on it. These refresher courses became available from October 2024, giving ample time to prepare.
First Aid Certification a Prerequisite: Before you can even begin your refresher training, you must hold a current Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification, or an equivalent Level 3 qualification for Close Protection roles. Training centres will require proof of this certificate upon registration for your refresher course.
Why These Updates?
The SIA’s aim with these changes is to further boost security industry standards and ensure that licence holders are equipped with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge. This includes:
Having current first aid skills.
Being trained in counter-terrorism and emergency response.
Understanding modern legal and technical practices relevant to the evolving security landscape.
What Does This Mean for You?
Door Supervisors: You have the option to complete the Door Supervisor refresher training to renew your existing licence or take the Security Guard refresher training if you wish to downgrade to a Security Guard licence.
Close Protection Licence Holders: You can complete a Close Protection top-up training to renew your licence or take the Door Supervisor refresher training to switch to a Door Supervisor licence.
Important Actions to Take Now:
Check Your First Aid Certificate: Ensure your Emergency First Aid at Work (or equivalent) certificate is current and valid.
Book Your Refresher Course: Don’t wait until the last minute! Refresher courses have been available since October 2024. Book your training well in advance of your licence expiry in April 2025.
Provide Proof: Remember to provide your first aid certificate when registering for your refresher course.
These updates are designed to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of the private security industry. By staying informed and completing the necessary training, you can ensure your continued compliance and contribute to a safer environment.
Essential SIA Licence Updates for 2025: What You Need to Know
For anyone working in the private security industry in the UK, staying informed about changes to Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulations is crucial. The SIA continually updates its requirements to ensure high standards and public safety, and significant changes are coming into effect from April 1, 2025. These updates primarily focus on mandatory refresher training and first aid qualifications for licence renewals.
Key Changes Coming in April 2025:
Why These Updates?
The SIA’s aim with these changes is to further boost security industry standards and ensure that licence holders are equipped with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge. This includes:
What Does This Mean for You?
Important Actions to Take Now:
These updates are designed to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of the private security industry. By staying informed and completing the necessary training, you can ensure your continued compliance and contribute to a safer environment.
Calendar