Working as a security guard isn’t just about standing in front of a door or watching CCTV screens. It’s a role where you actively protect people and property, contribute to public safety, and ensure the smooth running of various environments from construction sites to shopping malls.
If you’re looking for a career that offers stability and the opportunity to make a real difference in your local community, security might just be for you. With increasing concerns around crime and safety, trained and licensed security professionals are always in demand.
The Roles of Security Guards
Security guards come in many forms, and their duties depend on the environment they’re working in. Whether you’re on patrol at a corporate office, manning the gate at a construction site, or providing a presence in retail, your primary goal is to keep people and property safe. Below are some of the key responsibilities you’ll encounter in different security roles.
Monitoring and Patrolling
As a security guard, your primary responsibility is to monitor and patrol premises. You could patrol on foot, by vehicle, or through CCTV systems. Your role involves watching for suspicious behaviour, ensuring security measures are in place, and responding promptly to any incidents. Regular patrols are critical to deterring potential criminals and identifying any security vulnerabilities, such as broken locks, damaged fencing, or unsecured entrances.
Access Control
Controlling who comes in and out of a site is another essential part of the job. As a security guard at a large office building or a construction site, you regularly check IDs, manage sign-ins, and ensure that only authorised individuals enter. Effective access control is one of the best ways to prevent unauthorised entry, ensuring the site remains secure at all times.
Incident Reporting
When something does go wrong, it’s your job to report it. This might involve calling the police, writing up a report, or liaising with management to assess what needs to be done. Security guards are typically the first responders to any kind of incident, this could be a break-in, a fire alarm going off or someone acting suspiciously. How you handle these situations is critical, as it sets the tone for how the situation will be resolved.
Crowd Control
If you’re working at an event, concert, or large public gathering, managing the crowd can be a big part of your job. You’ll help direct people, manage the flow of attendees, and deal with any disturbances that arise. You’ll also need to keep an eye on crowd density to ensure exits remain clear in case of emergencies.
Emergency Response
Emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime. From medical incidents to fire alarms, your role may involve evacuating people, administering first aid, or assisting emergency services. The ability to remain calm and act decisively in stressful situations is a key skill for any security guard.
Customer Service
While it’s not always the first thing that comes to mind, good customer service is a significant part of the job. These duties may include giving directions, helping someone with a query, or managing an upset customer, strong communication skills are essential. The better you can interact with people, the more smoothly things tend to run.
What is SIA Licensing?
Why is SIA Licensing Important?
- It’s the Law: Without an SIA licence, you can’t legally work as a security guard in most roles. Both you and your employer could face hefty fines or legal action if you’re caught working without one.
- Trust and Accountability: The SIA licence process involves background checks and training, boosting employers’ confidence in your suitability for the role and strengthening public trust in the security industry.
- Professional Development: Having an SIA licence isn’t just about meeting legal requirements, it’s also a stepping stone to advancing your career. If you want to move into more specialised areas like close protection or become a security manager, your SIA licence is the key to securing those opportunities.
How Do You Get an SIA Licence?
Getting your SIA licence is a straightforward but detailed process. Here are the steps:
- You need to be at least 18 years old.
- You must pass a criminal records check.
- You’ll need to provide proof of your identity and eligibility to work in the UK.
- You must complete an SIA-approved training course for the type of security work you’re interested in (e.g., door supervision, security guarding, CCTV operations).
Once all that’s sorted, you can apply for your licence. The cost is £184, and it typically takes 25 working days to process. Your licence will be valid for three years (unless you are applying for a vehicle immobaliser license, this lasts for just 1 year), after which you’ll need to renew it.
Qualifications and Accreditation to Become a Security Guard
While you don’t need any specific academic qualifications to start a career in security, there are some certifications and accreditations that will help you get the job and excel in it.
SIA-Approved Training
To be eligible for an SIA licence, you need to complete a training course from an approved provider. The training covers several key areas:
- Legal aspects of the role: Understanding the laws and regulations that govern the security industry.
- Conflict management: How to handle difficult or aggressive individuals in a professional and non-confrontational way.
- Physical intervention: In some roles, you’ll need to know how to safely intervene physically to protect people or property.
- Emergency procedures: Training on fire safety, first aid, and responding to other emergencies.
This training usually takes about a week, depending on the type of security licence you’re pursuing. Once you’ve completed the course and passed the required assessments, you’ll receive a certificate that allows you to apply for your SIA licence.
Additional Certifications
Depending on the specific security role you’re pursuing, you may need or greatly benefit from obtaining additional certifications:
- CSCS Card: If you plan to work in construction security, you’ll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. This shows that you’ve received training in health and safety standards specific to construction sites.
- First Aid Certification: Many employers look for security guards who are certified in first aid. This is particularly useful if you’re working at events or in places where large groups of people gather.
- Fire Marshal Training: In environments such as factories or large buildings, having fire marshal certification sets you apart and increases your value.
Key Soft Skills for Security Guards
While formal qualifications are essential, there are also certain soft skills that can make or break your success as a security guard:
- Attention to Detail: Spotting potential risks before they turn into real problems.
- Communication: Whether you’re explaining rules to the public or coordinating with colleagues, being able to communicate clearly is a must.
- Reliability: Security guards need to be dependable. Your employer needs to trust that you can handle responsibility, as you’ll often work unsupervised.
- Calm Under Pressure: In emergencies, the ability to remain level-headed and act quickly is crucial.
Is Security A Good Career Choice?
Becoming a security guard in the UK is a solid career choice. Offering stability, variety, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world around you. By getting the right qualifications, obtaining your SIA licence and continually building your skills, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding career in security.
In summary, to become a security guard, you need to:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass an ID check and criminal records check.
- Prove your eligibility to work in the UK.
- Complete SIA-approved training.
- Apply for and maintain an SIA licence.
- Consider additional certifications, such as a CSCS card or first aid training.
If you’re looking to work in retail, corporate, construction or events, there’s a role in security for you. With the right training and mindset, you can build a successful career while keeping people and property safe.
