Security licensing launched in Scotland

Published on 26 Feb 2007

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has officially opened up licensing for six sectors of the private security industry in Scotland.

Security licensing has been in force in England and Wales since March 2006 - the extension to Scotland creates a single regulatory body for the private security industry in Great Britain.

Those who work in the security industry in Scotland have until November to get licensed, when it will become compulsory for those operating in designated security industry roles in Scotland to hold an SIA licence. From this date it will also be an offence for security company managers and directors to operate without an SIA licence or to provide unlicensed operatives.

Jennifer Pattinson, SIA Head of Investigation for Scotland said:

"SIA licensing for Scotland will help protect the public by preventing unsuitable or poorly trained people from working in the private security industry and by raising standards of service. Since July we have been communicating with all sectors of the security industry in Scotland to help them understand regulation. Between now and November we’ll ensure that every person who requires a licence in Scotland has the support and guidance they need to obtain one."

The decision to extend licensing to Scotland follows responses to a public consultation paper issued by the Scottish Executive in September 2001. The responses displayed widespread support for SIA licensing from the police, local government, the public and security industry.

In April 2007 the SIA will launch the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) for security companies in Scotland. The ACS standard encompasses all aspects of business operations and is based on widely recognised business improvement models. To attain ACS status, security companies need to demonstrate that they have met quality standards designed specifically for the private security industry. Achieving ACS status will mean that the best security companies can show their customers real commitment to licensing and regulation.

The six licensable sectors in Scotland are:

  • Door Supervisor (in-house and contractors)
  • Security Guard (contractors only)
  • Cash & Valuables in Transit (contractors only)
  • Public Space Surveillance CCTV (contractors only)
  • Close Protection (contractors only)
  • Key Holder (contractors only)

The estimated SIA licenseable security population in Scotland is 16,300 individuals.

To attain a front-line SIA licence applicants must undertake an approved training course, achieve a recognised qualification and undergo an identity and criminal record check. SIA approved training and qualifications, with a specific emphasis on Scottish law, were launched in September 2006.

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