What is the difference between a Door Supervisor and a Security Guard SIA Licence.
Ever since the SIA gave people a choice between the two licences in 2005 this has been a question which has caused much discussion. The roles of a SIA Door Supervisor and a Security Guard are often the same in the minds of the public. However, they serve different functions and are better suited to different situations. There are also legal requirements that you must take into consideration. Knowing the differences between the two roles ensures that you make the right choices when deciding which training course to take and which SIA licence to apply for.
Anyone who holds a SIA Door Supervisor licence can undertake any of the roles covered by a Security Guard licence. This is clearly shown on the SIA website in the licencing integration section.
So what are the advantages of holding a Door Supervisor Licence rather than a Security Guard licence, especially if you have no intention of working in a pub or club? The short answer is that you will have greater job opportunities and be seen as more versatile by most potential employers. Consider the following, a Door Supervisor licence is not only required to work in pubs and clubs it is also needed to work in any establishment where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises, for example in Hotels, Restaurants, Theatres, Cinemas and Casinos.
An SIA Door Supervisor Licence is a legal requirement on premises where alcohol is going to be served. Their training specifically covers the common variables that door supervisors will face every day. This includes conflict management skills and physical intervention skills. As such, they are trained to deal with those who are intoxicated and potentially violent
Traditional Security Guards with basic licences are ideal for environments that don’t serve alcohol and where security must be maintained. For instance, patrolling, securing, and monitoring business premises out of hours is a key role that many security guards undertake.
It important to be aware of the restrictions on CCTV use for standard security guards. While they are permitted to use CCTV to identify trespassers and protect property, they are not permitted to use it to monitor the activities of the public or to identify a particular person. A public Space Surveillance (CCTV) licence would be required for this, and therefore standard security guards aren’t permitted to work in public spaces such as shopping centres.
Whilst it is not necessary for a Door Supervisor or a Security Guard to have academic qualifications, it is necessary to obtain training to provide the framework for a complete understanding of the role, and to enhance the skills and approach of the individual towards the security industry. In completing your training, you will be authorised to apply for your SIA licence. It is illegal to work in the security industry without the proper licencing or training is a criminal offence that could result in high fines or prison. Hiring unlicenced staff is also against the law, and the employer will also be punished by law.
Vistech Training would always strongly recommend to all that are considering the Security Officer training course that they consider the Level 2 Award for Working as a Door Supervisor within the Private Security Industry course instead.
