The security industry is rapidly expanding, with around 413,000 SIA-licensed security professionals across the UK. As we move into 2024, these numbers are only expected to grow. Security guards play a crucial role in keeping the public safe, whether it’s in a supermarket, at a festival, or patrolling office grounds.
At HK9 Security Services, we understand the importance of quality, professionalism, and expertise in the security sector. As the UK’s top ACS-approved security provider, we’ve built a reputation for excellence. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to join the ranks of elite security personnel in the UK.
## 5 Key Steps to Become a Security Guard
We’ve broken down the process of becoming a security guard into five simple steps, taking you from no qualifications to a fully qualified, certified, and trained security officer.
### Step 1: Choose the Right Security Guard SIA Certification
Your first step is to get the appropriate certification from the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the governing body for all security qualifications in the UK. You cannot legally work in the private security industry without the right SIA license.
You’ll need either a security guarding license or a door supervisor license. The key difference is that the door supervisor license allows you to work in venues that serve alcohol. Here are other types of SIA licenses:
– **Close Protection License:** For bodyguarding and VIP protection.
– **Cash In Transit License:** For transporting valuable items.
– **Public Space Surveillance License:** For operating public-facing security cameras.
For this guide, we’ll focus on the Door Supervisor License, as it’s the most versatile.
### Step 2: Complete Your Chosen Course
Once you’ve chosen your certification, the next step is to complete the relevant training course. Choose an accredited provider, such as Get Licensed, which is well-recognized and has trained over 300,000 recruits.
#### Completing the Door Supervisor Course
The Door Supervisor course typically includes:
– **Working in the Private Security Industry:** Covers laws, health and safety, and emergency procedures.
– **Working as a Door Supervisor:** Focuses on standards of behavior, legal issues, and crowd management.
– **Conflict Management in the Security Sector:** Teaches techniques to avoid and defuse conflicts.
– **Physical Intervention Techniques & Skills:** Provides practical skills for managing and escorting individuals.
The course lasts six days, culminating in four exams. You need a passing grade of 70% in each unit (80% in Physical Intervention Techniques) to receive your certificate.
### Step 3: Complete Your SIA License Application
After completing your course, apply for your SIA license through the SIA’s website. The application costs £184 for one license, with additional licenses costing £92 each. You’ll need to provide:
– Proof of course completion
– Proof of identity and age
– Address history for the last five years
– Your right to work in the UK
– A photo of yourself
You’ll also undergo criminal and mental health checks. Once submitted, the SIA will review your application, which can take up to six weeks.
### Step 4: Receive Your SIA License in the Post
After approval, you’ll receive your SIA license in the post. This license is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed.
### Step 5: Begin Applying for Jobs in Security
With your SIA license in hand, you’re ready to start applying for security jobs. Research potential employers, focusing on their business practices and training programs. Key skills for security guards include:
– Proficiency in English
– Good verbal and written communication
– Professionalism and organization
– Punctuality and reliability
– Adaptability
– Ability to work independently and as part of a team
## Kickstart Your Security Career with HK9 Security Services
At HK9 Security Services, we offer unparalleled training and career opportunities. With a reputation for quality and professionalism, we equip our security officers for a wide range of scenarios. Visit our Careers page to explore current job openings and apply to work with the UK’s leading ACS-approved security company.
Start your journey in the security industry with HK9 Security Services and join the ranks of elite security personnel today.
