What is security guarding?

Security guarding – according to SIA guidelines – is providing security services that do not fall under the banners of ‘door supervision’, ‘cash and valuables in transit’, ‘close protection’ or ‘public space surveillance’. The one requirement of an act of security guarding is that it must be done under some form of contract with a client or consumer.

Who needs a security guarding license?

For those physically and directly involved in the security services, a front-line licence is required. This is a small identity card that must be worn and prominently displayed, subject to licence conditions.

For supervisors, employers or managers, a non front-line licence is required. Rather than a card, this will be delivered in letter format, also detailing the responsibilities and tasks of a non front-line licence holder; participation in front-line activities is not permitted by those holding a non front-line licence.

Individuals holding non front-line licenses are permitted to carry out non front-line activities in areas other than their primary focus. For example, the director of a security guarding firm would not need to apply for an additional license were they to provide key holding services, since the supplying of employees for a particular service is also a non front-line activity, and within the general realms of security work.

Licenses cost £245 for three years. This is not refundable. For employers purchasing licenses for employees, there should be no tax or National Insurance liability. For employees purchasing for themselves, you can claim tax relief against your taxable income, (eg, the basic rate of tax will merit you £49). For more details, visit the HMRC website.

Required qualifications for a security guarding license:

There are a number of qualifications that are acceptable when applying for jobs in security guarding:

1. 1. Level 2 Award in security guarding, accepted from the following awarding bodies:

• British Institute of Innkeeping (BIAAB – 01276 684449)
• City & Guilds (020 7294 2800)
• Edexcel (0844 527 0026)
• EDI (08707 202909)
• NOCN (0114 227 0500)

1. 2. Nation certificate for security guards (Scotland)

• British Institute of Innkeeping (BIAAB – 01276 684449)

1. 3. City and guilds certificate of security guarding (Scotland)

• British Institute of Innkeeping (BIIAB – 01276 684449)
• City & Guilds (020 7294 2800)

1. 4. BTEC Award in security operations (Scotland)

• Edexcel (0844 527 0026)

1. 5. Certificate for security guards in Scotland

• EDI (08707 202909)

1. 6. NOCN Award in security guarding (Scotland)

• NOCN (0114 227 0500)

1. 7. National Progression Award in Security Operations: Security Guarding (Scotland)

• SQA (08452 791 000)

In a first-time application, you must have obtained your qualification no more than three years prior to application. If you are simply looking to renew your licence, a qualification older than three years is very much acceptable, granted that your last licence ran out no more than three years ago. In this instance, it is advisable to renew your qualification before submitting another application.

For workers primarily situated in Scotland, it is advisable to obtain one of the above qualifications that specifies for work in Scotland. Those working in England, N. Ireland and Wales should not seek these qualifications. If training given is situated in England, N. Ireland or Wales, and you wish to work in Scotland, it is also advisable to undergo more location-based, regional training.