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Top 10 Tips to Be a Better Security Guard

Jun 14 • Career Advice, Security Guard • 16292 Views

So you’ve passed your Security Guard Training and you have your SIA Licence. Like any career however, the training never really stops. You will always be learning as your career progresses, and of course it is natural that experience will make you better at your job. However, no matter where you in your security career, or how long you have been in the role, following these top 10 tips should help you be a better security guard.

1. Review Your Course Materials

This may be the last thing you want to do especially if you are newly qualified, but review all your course manuals to make sure you have it completely fixed in your mind. All too often we learn enough for the exam and then it is forgotten 2 weeks later. If you’ve been in the job a while, pick up a recent version of the study manuals to refresh your knowledge.

2. Take Refresher Courses

Be aware of any local refresher courses and ask your employer to send you on them. Attend and contribute in order to share knowledge with other experienced security guards.

3. Stay Fit & Healthy

One of the most important aspects to being a security guard is to remain fit and exercise everyday. You never know when you might need to use your fitness to save yours or someone else’s life.

4. Practice Self-Defense

A good security guard will know self-defense techniques to a high standard. Practice when you can with a friend or work colleague so you can all upon such skills when you need to.

5. Know Your Neighbourhood

Know what is going on in your neighborhood. Read the local news so you can stay ahead of any security crime events in your working areas. Try to be one step ahead of any potential threats.

Working well as part of a team is an important aspect of many security roles

6. Know The Procedures

Whenever you start work at a new security company, take time to read all their manuals and operating procedures. Get to know the building and surrounding area like the back of your hand.

7. Continue To Learn

You should never get to a stage where you no longer ask questions. Find a more experienced security guard to help you, and discuss solutions for any problems you may have faced recently.

8. Read Your Manuals

Read and study a security manual or text book every month.

9. Find A Mentor

Ask a senior security manager to help mentor you in advanced security techniques. No employer will mind you being keen and wanting to learn new skills.

10. Stay Focused

Never make assumptions when on the job. A security guard has to maintain a professional perspective at all times when working. Everyone is potentially dangerous and it only takes a second for a person to cause you serious harm. Maintain your focus and be safe at all times.

Remember the initial security guard training and subsequent SIA Licence is only the first step along your career path. The few days you spend training are just the tip of the iceberg. For most security guard jobs you will be by yourself, the responsibility should something go wrong is completely with you. You need to be as prepared as you can be. Following the steps above will help you achieve that.

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The Dangers of Being a Security Guard

Jun 9 • Security Guard • 6772 Views

Some of you may have noticed however recently on the SIA Licence Hub we have added a news section to the site. Here we aim to cover daily news stories relevant to the security industry. Of course, with it being news, a lot of the items that are reported are crimes, either by security officers or more commonly against them.

Although it is understandable given the sheer amount of working security guards today, in just one week of reporting such news, there have been an alarming amount of crimes against security guards.

This state of affairs really does highlight the ongoing dangers involved with being a frontline security officer. It is something that can be take for granted, and in the every day reality of work a security guard may very well forget the potential harm that may come to them in the course of their job.

We do not want to appear alarmist, however all security operatives should not become complacent.

In the news stories reported this week, one security guard has been stabbed by a hypodermic needle by a crazed woman stating that the syringe was infested with aids.

In another story a security guard was stabbed by a knife while on duty. These are all stories from within the UK.

While researching new stories we have come across other incidents across the world, (South Africa and India coming up all too often) and found countless incidents of harm coming to security guards while in the line of duty.

We have decided not to add these stories to the site, as we are predominantly a resource for guards working in the UK, however such stories do serve to highlight what it means to be a security guard these days. There is no getting away from the fact that security guarding can be a very dangerous game.

So this little article is only to work as a reminder. Do not take the apparent safety of your role for granted. Make sure you are prepared for any eventuality. If you work with others, make sure you are in sync and work well together. If you are new to the job, ensure you know as much about your working environment as possible.

There are many resources through out this site that aim to help those working in the field to be as aware and prepared as they can possibly be.

You never know what might happen on your shift today, so be careful out there…

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Essential Security Guard Equipment

May 31 • Security Guard • 22109 Views

Every security guard should be correctly equipped for the job. Sometimes your employer will supply you with the security equipment you need, other times you will have to source the gear yourself. Either way, the following list is some highly recommended security guard equipment that you should definitely have access to when on your shift.

Flashlight / Torch

Every security guard must carry a flashlight – it is one of the most important pieces of equipment available to you. Whether you are a day security guard or night, a flashlight is essential.

Certain situations will call for the use of extra light. A day security guard patrolling low light areas of a building for instance. A night guard will have endless reasons to operate a flashlight.

Furthermore, a flashlight can also be used for protection. Heavy duty torches used by security guards can be used as a striking device should a situation call for it. They are sturdy and will certainly be used to great effect in a combat situation.

As a security officer your best bet is to opt for a Maglite flashlight. They are durable, have a very bright light, and are extremely reliable.

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Maglights on Amazon

Boots

A good pair of security guard boots is another essential piece of security guard equipment, and all officers should ensure they have an adequate pair.

A security guard spends a lot of time on their feet. A good pair of boots can mean the difference between an uncomfortable shift with pain in your legs and feet, to one where aches and pains remain at bay.

A good pair of boots will last for a very long time. They will be waterproof for those that patrol outside locations and ultimately will keep your feet warm and comfortable.

Most security guard uniforms mean that a black pair of boots are the ones you should go for. However, it is wise to check with your employer first before investing in a pair.

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Work Boots on Amazon

Security Guard Belt

We love the security guard belt, and it is yet another essential piece of security guard equipment that no officer should really be without. They are just so damn handy.

In fact, it would not be out of place to say that the utility belt to the security guard is the same as a stethoscope to a nurse or doctor; you couldn’t do your job properly without it.

A quality security guard belt, will be able to hold much of the equipment you will ever need, leaving you with your hands free to go about your day with ease.

The last thing a security guard needs to be doing in the middle of the situation is realise that his torch, or batton is left back at his desk. With the proper belt you will be ready for action whenever it occurs.

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Security Guard Belts on Amazon

Mobile Phone

Your mobile phone is another essential piece of security guard equipment. You should purchase a strong durable type of phone, which is possible to operate quickly should you need to call the emergency services such as the police, ambulance or fire service.

Also, you should ensure that the phone has a decent enough camera, (all smart phones do these days), so that you are able to take pictures of a scene. These images could be essential evidence for a police investigation should that be the outcome of a situation you are involved with.

True, much conversation will be done via walkie-talkie, but these are no good for outside communication.

On the first day of any new job, you should ensure that your phone has all the important numbers you might need to carry out your role professionally and efficiently. Put such numbers on speed dial too.

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Smart Phones on Amazon

Mini First Aid Kit

A mini-first aid kit is also an important piece of a equipment a security guard should aim to have.

This is so you can administer simple first aid to yourself, your peers and any other persons you are employed to protect.

For example, if you’re working in a retail environment, you will be surprised just how often a person will ask for a plaster. You do not want to waste time looking for one when approached, and you shouldn’t very well turn around and say no and do nothing about it.

Having a first aid kit will help you be a better security guard that is always prepared.

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Mini First Aid Kits Amazon

Suitable Clothing

You may well be a security guard that works in cold and wet climates, (not hard if you live in the UK). If so you will know how difficult it can be to work in such conditions if you are not properly dressed.

Night shifts can be very cold if you are patrolling outside. A heated vest, warm jumper and waterproof overcoat are just some of the items of clothing you should consider having to keep warm while on the job. (Again, you would need to check with your employer so that anything you buy is in line with your uniform).

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Heated Vests on Amazon

SIA Licence Badge Holder

And finally, one must not forget to have a suitable SIA Licence badge holder. This is probably the most essential piece of security guard equipment in that you can not work legally without your licence on show. In short you have to have this.

View Current Pricing and Reviews of Badge Holders on Amazon

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Static Security Guarding

May 23 • Security Guard • 5344 Views

While looking through the job section you may come across a listing for a static security guard. You will also find security guard companies, advertising the fact that they supply static security guards. But what exactly does the role involve?

You may be forgiven for thinking it refers to the type of guard that patrols just one spot, the image of front desk security immediately springing to mind. However, despite the title a static security guard is never really stationary for long.

The Job of a Static Security Guard

Although part of the role does indeed involve guarding a specific area, other duties include conducting regular, comprehensive and sometimes co-ordinated (with other guards) security patrols.

Also, when people see night security guards at work, they are under the impression the role involves being there ready to catch any potential intruders.

While this is true, guarding against intruders is again only part of the job and in truth most large organisations have security measures in place that prevent intrusions from occurring.

Being a static security guard does not mean standing still
The other important responsibilities undertaken by a static security guard include:
Preventing fires, flood and other damage to a property – a guard will be on hand to alert authorities should any of these hazards occur.

Preventing waste of a company’s resources – a static guard will patrol several times throughout his shift. This will involve turning off lights, shutting doors, and other tasks that help maintain order.

To prevent accidents – static guards are vital in situations such as the evacuation of a building, organising for the clearing of escape routes and fire exits and again important in order to maintain order in any crisis.

To detect and prevent offenses – the part that is all about preventing and/or reacting to intruders and any other illegal activity on site.
An important aspect in conducting duties as a static security is therefore the patrol. These will always vary in time and route in order to benefit in the element of surprise in the face of any incidents.

A security guard will also record each of the patrols conducted during a shift, in case the report is needed for police evidence at any time.

Property Guarding

We have already brushed upon this in that static security guards are there to ensure order is maintained. In the context of a business owner, this means that guards can make sure employees are obeying by company rules and regulations.

Everything from enforcing no smoking policies, to preventing employees stealing from a company falls within the remit of a static security guard.

Communication & Working in Teams

When guarding a larger organisation a static officer will often work as part of a team. Communication is held wirelessly between each guard at all times, and advancements in guarding technology along with CCTV (operated by officers with the necessary SIA licence) all lead to a robust security network.

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Close Protection Companies

May 16 • Career Advice, Close Protection Officer, Featured • 23106 Views

Finding a job as a close protection officer isn’t easy, however one of the best places to start is to research close protection companies and try to get on their books.

What you need is contacts and recommendations in this game, however there is nothing to stop you giving a close protection company a call and trying to line up a meeting.

Face to face contact always works best, and if you have worked with someone who might be able to put a good word in for you, all the better.

All the same, we have complied a list of some of the biggest close protection companies working in the UK today. Whether it be VIP close protection, hostile environment overseas close protection, or government agency based close protection, these are the companies you should be contacting in your pursuit of the next position as a close protection officer.

Top 10 List of Close Protection Companies to contact

Saladin Security – International Security and Risk Management Solutions.

www.saladin-security.com

Saladin Security is a company that mainly deals with specialist security services, along with close protection based in high-risk areas of the world.

Clients include many overseas governments, the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office. Their about page states that the company worked extensively in Africa and the Middle East. Close protection services have been provided in all continents, including for nine Heads of State.

More recently the company has moved into the commercial sector, providing close protection services to the oil, gas and mining companies. A close protection company definitely worth contacting.

Their employment page gives you the option of sending across your CV and all your vitals.

Blue Mountain Group – Professional Security Services.

www.bluemountaingroup.co.uk

The Blue Mountain Group covers a range of services, including close protection, security consulting and planning, surveillance and investigation. They also provide training.

The company covers operations across the UK as well as hostile environments. Their employment page gives you all the details required in how to gain employment with this highly respected close protection company.

Minimal Risk Close Protection

www.minimalrisk.co.uk

Minimal Risk Close Protection is a company that has been in the game for years. They have a designated recruitment page – http://www.minimalriskrecruitment.co.uk/

Where you can view a short video about what they do. Clients include Government and corporate entities as well as small business operations and high net worth individuals.

To send you CV and accompanying details to this close protection company, head here: http://www.minimalriskrecruitment.co.uk/register.asp

Colossal Security close protection

www.colossalsecurity.co.uk

Colossal Security is a close protection company predominantly dealing in the Maritime and Shipping sector. Based in the North West of England, the company boasts clients from the largest shipping lines, to single vessel companies.

Experience in the sector will put you in a good position, however the company does offer training to the right kind of candidates.

You can send across your CV and vitals to the company here: http://www.colossalsecurity.co.uk/careers/

Galahad Associates

www.galahad-associates.com/

Galahad Associates is a close protection company that deals in a wide range of specialist security services.

Areas include, close protection, residential security, and counter surveillance.

The company operates throughout the world in specialist military and police units and as civilian contractors. Operational areas include the, the USA and Latin America, Europe, Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia. In short – everywhere.

The company does not have a designated recruitment page, so to try to get on their books for close protection work, you need to contact them direct: http://galahad-associates.com/

Broadstone Security

www.broadstonesecurity.co.uk

Broadstone Security is a close protection company, providing executive close protection across the UK and worldwide VIP international bodyguard services.

The company provides Executive Protection service for VIPs, High Net Worth Individuals, Corporate clients and the Entertainment and Arts industry.

Based in London, you can send your CV across to this close protection company, via the following link http://broadstonesecurity.co.uk/vacancies.html

Banham Close Protection Services

www.banhamcloseprotection.co.uk

Banham Close Protection is a close protection company specialising in providing close protection for people, property and valuable assets.

Offering extensive personal and property security in London, you can contact them via the company website.

www.gms-security.com

GMS Security Services is a company providing close protection security throughout the UK.

Personal and property security is their main area of expertise.

Their website does not contain a specific recruitment page, however, you can contact them directly here: www.gms-security.com

www.calibre-international.com

Calibre International is a company that provides bespoke personal security services.

They operate throughout the UK and deliver professional services, operating in a wide range of environments, both in the UK and abroad. They also provide a full range of training services.

The company head office is based in High Wycombe. To send across your details or give them a call head here:

www.garda-world.com

Garda World is a close protection company, providing security services for diplomats and commercial clients in high-risk environments.

Their recruitment profiles include trained former US and UK Special Forces professionals, the main basis of operations being the protection of diplomats, commercial clients and development staff who operate in high-threat environments.

To send across your details, head to their designated careers page: http://www.garda-world.com/careers/list

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Top 10 Cash in Transit Companies

May 9 • Career Advice, Other Security Roles • 43062 Views

The reality of working as a Cash and Valuables in Transit (CVIT) operative is that it is a dangerous job. Choosing which cash in transit company to work for is not a decision to be taken lightly.

Whether you have just passed your SIA licence to work as a CVIT operator, or are currently working in the field you will be aware of the dangers involved.

However, companies within the industry, along with the police and organisations such as BSIA are working hard to combat related criminal activity. The CVIT industry invests a significant amount of money every year in ways to increase security and combat potential robberies. Cash in transit companies invest greatly in available technology, helping the industry strive to stay one step ahead of the criminals at every turn.

To reduce the number of attacks on cash-in-transit operatives, a shared intelligence service has been created between Police and the BSIA’s Safercash service.

The SIA training involved to become a CVIT courier is of a high standard, reflecting the demands of the industry. A range of CVIT services are available to suit the different needs of small, medium and large companies.

So what cash in transit companies should you target when looking for work as a CVIT operative?

All now have to abide by industry regulated security measures in order to practice such services. An internet search will reveal some of the larger companies recruiting today. However, for your convenience we have created a list of some of UK’s larger cash in transit companies below.

Top 10 Cash In Transit Companies

www.secplus.co.uk

Security Plus & Limited is stated as being Europe’s largest independent volume cash carrier. The company was founded in 1977 and has thus been the game of cash in transit services for over 35 years.

Regional operations include, the Midlands, North of England and Scotland.

www.loomis.co.uk

Loomis is a well established cash-in-transit company. Work for these guys and you will be transiting cash for major financial institutions, independent ATM deployers, major retailers and public sector bodies.

The company boasts a presence in 16 countries, operates from over 400 offices throughout these countries and have more than 20,000 working for them. Formidable enough indeed.

The Co-Operative

The Co-Operative as a company do not need any introduction. However, as you might expect, their cash in transit division is large with opportunities all over the UK.

There online presence is also useful, with direct links to cash in transit job openings direct from their careers portal.

www.gunnebo.co.uk

Gunnebo is a worldwide cash in transit company. The business also deals with bank and security cash handling, physical security and electronic security.

Head to their website for details of employment opportunities.

www.postoffice.co.uk/cash-collection-service

The Post Office also have comprehensive cash in transit services, and clearly employ couriers right across the UK.

The website and your local job centre are the best places to search for jobs within the organization.

www.bdisecurities.co.uk

BDI Securities is a cash in transit company that provides complete cash logistics services for clients including the NHS, Local Government Authorities and large blue-chip companies. Again, they have offices all over the UK.

The 3 key sectors the company covers are: Cash and Valuables in Transit (CVIT), Cash Processing and Coin Management.

They also work to ISO 9001 quality management standards and is a BSIA member.

For careers information visit the website where they have a dedicated section.

www.contractsecurity.co.uk

Contract Security Services been a cash in transit company for over 20 years. A smaller company than many on this list, they provide professional security services to both the public and private sector.

The company has depots in Brentford, London, Larkin, Kemt, Andover and Hampshire.

Visit the company website for more info.

www.rmsgroupservices.com

RMS Group Services are a cash in transit company operating within the Uk and Ireland. The RMS cash division specialises in CVIT, Coin Services, ATM Services, Cash Management and Foreign Exchange, meaning there is a wide range of opportunity available within the company.

The RMS website has a dedicated careers section for latest employment opportunities.

www.caratsecurity.com

Centigon is the branch within Carat Security that deals with cash in transit. However, they actually supply the vehicles used for such activities, rather than the services themselves.

Expect to find their vehicles as part of the fleet for a huge number of cash-in-transit companies. Clients include Brinks, G4S, Prosegur, Loomis, Securitas, Bank of France, BNB, and Central Bank of Tunisia, to name but a few.

Head to their website for more information.

www.tollgroup.com/cash-in-transit

The Toll Group arm dealing with cash in transit services state that they use cutting edge technology to deter robbers. Including, Intelligent Banknote Neutralisation Systems (IBNS), and armoured vehicle with ballistics and smart racking technology.

To find out more about this cash in transit company and how to work for them, head to the company website.

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Door Supervisor Insurance

May 7 • Career Advice, Door Supervisor, Featured • 14892 Views

Depending on how you are employed as a door supervisor, you may well have to take care of your own door supervisor insurance coverage.

However, even if your employer has taken care of the insurance for you, you should make efforts to be aware exactly how you are covered and what you could still be liable for.

First lets breakdown the essential elements of a typical door supervisor insurance policy, so you know what to look out for.

Alternatively, you might be reading this from an employer’s perspective. If you have your own Door Staff team, you will certainly need to ensure that valid public liability insurance for door supervisors is in place.

Without it the repercussions can be severe.

Public Liability Coverage

The most important area to be covered by the insurance is public liability. The role of a door supervisor clearly involves working with members of the public. It is paramount that you are covered in the event of issues relating to this.

If in the course of your job a member of the public becomes injured and after an investigation you are found to be at fault or guilty of negligence, you will want to be insured.

Such an incident could lead to expensive court proceedings and financial payment to the victim. In the event of this, a door supervisor insurance policy with public liability coverage would help protect you against the costs.

Employer’s Liability Coverage

For those that run a security company, it is a legal requirement that you have employers liability coverage if you have door supervisors working for you.

This type of insurance protects you should one of your employees seek to take legal action against you. It will also come to the fore if an employee becomes injured or ill as a result of work done while employed by you.

There are very few exceptions to the legal necessity of employers liability coverage, however some types of non-permanent employment contracts do contain wording as to avoid liability by the contractor. (You should check your own employment contract accordingly).

All the same, it would be unwise to employ others on any basis without some kind of employer’s liability insurance in place.

Personal Accident Insurance

A door supervisor may also find themselves injured on the job. If this happens you could be unable to work for an unknown period of time.

If you are self-employed, personal accident insurance cover can help with any financial burden during your time out of work. The payable amounts vary on the type of accident and the cover that you pay for, however it can be a very useful addition to a typical door supervisor insurance policy.

Additional Insurance Elements

Although these are the three main areas of insurance for door supervisors, many policies will cover more than this, as well as have optional extras that you or your employer can decide to include

Here is a list of cover you can expect to see in a typical door staff insurance policy:
- Employers Liability
- Public Liability
- Personal Accident
- Efficacy and Contractual Liability
- Wrongful Arrest cover
- Loss of Keys/Consequential Loss following Loss of Keys
- Fidelity Bonding (Theft and Dishonesty by Employees)
- Financial Loss (Including Products)
- Professional Indemnity
- Directors and Officers
- Legal Expenses
Most insurance companies will tailor the policy on an individual basis to ensure you have the right amount of protection to suit you.

Important Elements to Consider

While the above list is the typical terms of coverage (and extended coverage in the case of a door supervisor employer), it is important to remember that not all door supervisor insurance polices are the same.

Security companies in the business of providing door supervisor staff should be especially careful on the type of cover that they have.

It is no surprise that insurance rates for door security companies have been increasing for many years now. Unfortunately claims are all too common and this in turn pushes up the average premium.

However, supply is still able to meet demand which means some companies will offer lower premiums to obtain the business. The trade off is in the type of cover you are actually receiving. This is why it is so important to understand the types of cover you require. The cheaper option may not always be the best option.

Insurance for Deliberate Acts

One example of essential cover that could be missing from your policy if you prioritize budget before all else, is insurance for deliberate acts. Insurers offering lower rates may well be compromising on cover by not including this.

This type of insurance is one of the most important elements of cover for door security companies and door supervisors in general.

In a situation where a door supervisor uses force to eject a customer and it was seen that too much was used, a claim may well be made. In such a scenario, you will want that your insurance policy will help cover you.

Security companies or self employed door supervisors without insurance for deliberate acts could face bankruptcy if a large claim was to be sought.

Door Supervisor Insurance Companies that we Recommend

If you are looking to purchase door staff insurance as part of a company, or if you are a self employed and looking for insurance for door supervisors, this following list of companied will be able to see to your needs.

As we have suggested, aim to get a quote from 2 or more insurance companies so that you can compare. Make sure to study the small print to see what is included, and do not be afraid to ask questions. They want your business, so they will be all to happy to oblige.
- Camberfordlaw.com
- BJP Insurance
- Security Insured
- Go Compare (especially good if you are a door staff company looking for a range of quotes on public liability insurance for door supervisors).
Overall, door supervisor insurance coverage is all too often an overlooked facet of the job. If you are currently working as a door supervisor, you need to make sure you adequately protected. It could be very costly if you are not.

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10 Steps to Becoming a Security Guard – Infographic

May 5 • Security Guard, SIA Licence, Training • 6153 Views

In this Infographic we show you what it takes to become a security guard in 10 simple steps. (Well 9 really, the 10th step is about turning up for your first day on the job).

Becoming a security guard is a rewarding career choice for many. If you are thinking the job could be for you, read on…

Continue Reading

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The SIA Badge – What is it, and how do you get one?

May 5 • SIA Licence • 40439 Views

The SIA badge, more commonly known as the SIA licence is what all frontline security staff have to visibly wear while at work.

We have plenty of information on how to get your SIA badge in other areas of the Hub. However, for those of you have reached our site by searching for details of the SIA badge, we will outline what you need to know below.

You will also find the handy links for more information that we provide elsewhere.

The SIA Badge Cost

A 3 year Front Line SIA licence will cost you £220.

However, a 1 year immobiliser licence is also £220. Many have complained that the SIA badge costs too much. Time will tell whether the SIA will reduce the price however.
SIA Badge Cost – How to save money
- Paying your own SIA badge costs? You are able to claim tax relief against your annual taxable income – visit the HRMC website for more details.
- Need more than one badge? It is possible to claim 50% off the cost of your second badge. More info Here
For more information regarding the cost of an SIA licence for head to our Licence & Training Section

SIA Badge Training

The only way you can actually get an SIA badge is by going through the proper training. Also, the type of SIA training you take, depends on what type of role you wish to do.
The following roles require an SIA badge:
- Manned Guarding
- Cash and Valuables in Transit
- Close Protection
- Door Supervision
- Public Space Surveillance (CCTV)
- Immobilisation, Restriction and Removal of Vehicles
If you have yet to decide which security role you would like to train for, head to our licence and training section for more details on each career.

Once enrolled on a course you will be expected to attend a class for a designated amount of hours. (This again varies depending on the security role. A door supervisor has less course contact hours than a close protection officer for instance.)

At the end of the training, you will need to pass at least 2 exams. These are often multiple choice. Governing bodies throughout the UK ensure that standards are the same no matter which training provider you use. (To find out more about the various organizing bodies, head here).

Once you have passed your exams it is time to actually apply for your SIA badge.

How to apply for the SIA Badge

The application process to gain your badge used to be quite long, with important documents having to be sent through the post.(For the SIA website application page, head here.)

However, a program with Royal Mail means the process has been streamlined. The identity checks can bow be done in your local post office.

However, if your record means you are subject to criminality checks, the SIA badge application process can linger.

For a detailed explanation of the entire SIA licence application procedure, head here.

SIA Badge Checker

While you wait for your SIA badge to arrive, you will have access to a handy SIA badge checker. This is an online resource that gives you the ability to check the status of your application and how far it is along the process.

In some cases the checker will be able to give you an exact explanation of what is happening. The caseworker who is dealing with your application will feed status reports into the system, meaning you have detailed information on what is happening.
The SIA website cite the following descriptions as examples of the sort of update you may receive with regards to your application.
- ”Your application was received on [DATE]. We are currently making sure you have provided all the information we need. We aim to process correctly completed applications within five weeks.”
- “Your application was incomplete. A letter was sent on [DATE] which explains what information we require to resolve this. We have not taken payment for your application.”
Obviously you do not want to read the second comment as part of your application status. However, if a mistake has occurred it does mean you have access to information that will help you rectify the situation.

Importantly, the SIA badge checker can also tell you when the powers that be have made a final decision on your application.

If your licence has been granted the checker will tell you what your licence number is, and the fact your SIA badge is in the post.

Congratulations you are now fully licensed. Time To Get That Job.

Handy Links
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Close Protection Training & the SAS

Feb 24 • Close Protection Officer • 14085 Views

The SAS are probably the most infamous elite army regiment in the world. Standing for Special Air Service, the specialized training that a soldier has to go through to become a member is legendary in its toughness. A candidate is literally pushed to the very limits of human mental and physical exertion.

So what does the SAS have to do with SIA training? Well the fact is, many of the close protection or body-guarding skills in use today, were first developed by the SAS back in the late 60’s.

The skills you learn in your close protection training have their origins in the Counter Revolutionary War wing of the SAS. Such skills became necessary in the Middle East during this time, where Allies of the British requested SAS training for their own bodyguards.

With the global political climate changing, and the onset of terrorist regimes that used guerrilla tactics in warfare, the need to keep people (targets) of strategic importance safe became paramount. The situation was changing back in the UK also. The need for more intense close protection services became apparent when Princess Anne and her husband Mark Phillips were attacked in 1974.

Although this move was unsuccessful, the event did reveal serious deficiencies in the Royal Protection Group’s methods and practices. Their equipment was not up to the standards required for the job and new protocols needed to be implemented.

Again, the close protection expertise of the SAS was called upon. The CRW wing moved in to spend time evaluating the Royal Protection Groups procedures and the servicemen themselves.

The time spent overseeing the overhaul, quickly cemented a close relationship between the SAS Regiment and the Royal Family. (A connection that lasts to this day.)

Even now SAS soldiers (working incognito) may undertake close protection duties at various Royal Family public appearances.

Direct SAS close protection services have been carried elsewhere too. For instance, when British Prime Minister John Major was working in Bosnia during the war between the former Yugoslav states in the 1990’s, the SAS were responsible for his safety.

Many of today’s high-level Government VIP close protection tasks, are carried out by units that have received direct training from the SAS, (the Royal Military Police being one example).

Close Protection Profiles

It makes sense that different bodyguarding environments call for different close protection profiles. The choice of adopted profile can often be a political consideration as well as merely practical. The most widely used close protection profiles utilized today are:

Military Overt Protection

You may well have seen this in action while watching the news. Most commonly seen when VIPs visit war zones, the Military Overt Protection sees close protection operatives displaying their might.

By demonstrating a show of strength, the tactic is meant to dissuade any potential form of attack. (See video of President Putin’s motorcade if you want a prime example of Overt Protection in action).

The profile generally sees the close protection operatives taking on a very disciplined military approach. Both the CP unit and the VIP will wear body armour. Weapons (smgs and carbines) are carried in plain sight, the whole profile is designed to intimidate any would be aggressors.

Low-Key Overt Close Protection

Sometimes a low-key profile is a more desired approach. Here the CP team will intend to blend into the surroundings. This is where the traditional image of a suit wearing bodyguard with tiny ear-piece is seen.

If outside of the UK, weapons (pistols and smgs) may well be carried inside the jacket. (It is illegal to carry firearms for commercial safety within the UK).

Furthermore, various other tools will be at the disposal of a qualified close protection officer while working outside the UK. Thermal scopes for firearms maybe utilised for reconnaissance work or patrols in low light conditions. Hand guns may be worn upon the person, (depending on the jurisdiction) as well as other tactical weaponry (knives etc) that might be used for close combat situations.

This profile is what a VIP (celebrity or member of government) may use when interacting with the public. The close protection unit will maintain a visible presence, however there is enough space for the VIP to go about his or her business.

Covert Protection

For this type of protection, the close protection team will act so that they are not visible. However, they are obviously very close by in order to be able to react to any situation that may occur.

Close Protection Techniques

With the SAS formulating many of the techniques utilized in modern close protection practices, not all of them are made known outside of industry circles. However, below is a list of some of the publically known procedures:

Route Reconnaissance

Close Protection teams will perform reconnaissance trips of the planned routes of their VIP’s motorcades. Preparation is the key, and such moves allow the team to look for potential ambush sites, traffic bottlenecks and choke points.

Offensive Driving

Members of the close protection team will be experienced drivers, trained in the art of offensive driving. If the VIP’s motorcade is attacked, the cars driven by the team can be used as weapons to protect or counter-attack. They can do this by ramming vehicles or assailants or by quickly escaping and taking the VIP out of harms way.

Embussing/Debussing

It is actually the between points that can see a VIP at his most vulnerable. For instance merely getting the VIP safely in and out of their vehicle is a complex problem that requires a great deal of planning and practice. Again, it was the SAS that developed the series of procedures that should be carried out when dealing with attacks during embussing and debussing.

Venue Reconnaissance

As with route reconnaissance missions, venues have to be analyzed with the same level of care. Members of the close protection team will go ahead to check any venues that form part of the VIP daily movements. In preparation of any attack, emergency exits and rendevous points will be established in and around the venue. An escape plan will also be formulated.

Close Quarters Battle (CQB)

At times, close protection work may require firearms to be used at close quarters. The likelihood is that the operation would take place in tight spaces, with colleagues and innocent bystanders being in close proximity.

This is probably one of the most dangerous areas of close protection. It takes constant training to be able to identify and safely engage a hostile in close quarter situations. The cost of a mistake can be lethal.

In the early years of close protection training, the SAS developed a range of techniques for using pistols and concealed weapons in close quarters. These techniques all revolve around protecting the VIP, shielding them from the line of fire and quickly and efficiently moving them to a safe location.

Image Credits: Huffington Post

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