What does “licensed security staff” mean in UK law?
In the UK, individuals who carry out certain security duties must hold a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. This is a legal requirement under the Private Security Industry Act 2001. Whether a licence is required depends entirely on the tasks being performed. It is unrelated to job titles or the location of the work. Understanding this distinction is central to UK security licensing law.
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Who regulates the security industry and why does licensing exist?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA), reporting to the Home Office, regulates the private security sector. It ensures that anyone carrying out licensable work is properly trained, vetted, and legally authorised to do so.
The licensing system is designed to:
- Reduce risk by ensuring staff are qualified and suitable.
- Define the standards for work that requires legal permission.
- Provide a clear compliance framework for employers and staff.
Holding an SIA licence is not about professional status. It indicates legal permission to perform specific duties. For example, a concierge may not need a licence unless their duties involve managing access or responding to security incidents.
Pro Tip: Always write job descriptions based on duties, not titles. This helps avoid role creep and accidental licensing breaches.
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What are non-licensed security staff and what can they legally do?
Non-licensed staff from a contractor or service provider can only work in roles that do not require SIA authorisation. These roles must remain within legally defined limits.
Permitted tasks include:
- Greeting visitors or stewarding events in non-enforcement roles.
- Supporting licensed staff with administrative or observational duties.
Non-licensed staff from a service provider may not:
- Intervene in security related incidents.
- Monitor CCTV
- Patrol with the aim of deterring or addressing criminal behaviour.
Employers are responsible for ensuring these limits are maintained. For UK businesses, maintaining security compliance involves clear job definitions and proper supervision.
What exactly counts as licensable security work?
Licensable work is determined by actions, not titles. If a task involves protecting people or property, deterring crime, or taking enforcement action, then an SIA licence is likely required.
Examples of licensable activities include:
- Patrolling property or guarding premises.
- Supervising entry to licensed venues.
- Monitoring live CCTV in public spaces.
- Responding to alarms or holding site keys.
Even providing temporary cover can breach the law if licensable duties are involved. Roles must be clearly defined and consistently followed.
How do licensed roles differ in training, checks and authority?
To qualify for an SIA licence, an individual must:
- Complete SIA-approved training.
- Pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
- Provide proof of identity, right to work and criminal history.
SIA training requirements cover:
- Conflict resolution.
- Legal responsibilities and boundaries.
- Physical intervention, where appropriate.
Licensed security staff are legally authorised to perform regulated tasks. Their training and ongoing suitability are monitored through national compliance mechanisms.
What common mistakes do businesses make when using non-licensed staff?
Mistakes can happen if roles change informally over time. A non-licensed employee may begin to take on licensable duties without proper authorisation.
Issues can include:
- Job titles that do not reflect actual responsibilities.
- Relying on experience instead of ensuring legal permission.
- Asking unlicensed staff to cover duties without recognising the risks.
Even well-intentioned actions can cross legal lines. Employers are liable if non-licensed staff perform regulated work.
Pro Tip: Do not rely on experience alone. If the task requires a licence, the law doesn’t allow for exceptions.
Why should employers care about licensing boundaries?
Failing to follow licensing rules can lead to serious consequences:
- Fines or enforcement action by the SIA.
- Insurance disputes following incidents.
- Legal claims if unlicensed staff are involved in harm.
- Reputational damage and loss of trust.
Employers must maintain role clarity and oversight. Strong governance and defined boundaries support both compliance and operational safety.
How do compliant organisations structure their security roles?
Organisations that meet legal requirements ensure a clear separation between licensed and non-licensed duties. Tasks are assigned based on legal authorisation, not convenience.
Effective practices include:
- Assigning regulated activities to licensed personnel only.
- Using non-licensed staff in administrative or passive roles.
- Reviewing job descriptions and duties regularly.
Double Check Security Group applies these principles across all sites. Licensed guards perform enforcement-related duties. Supervisors monitor job scope and deployment. Routine reviews help prevent role drift.
This approach ensures legal compliance, protects staff and clients, and builds long-term trust in service delivery.
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