In the UK, the Security Industry Authority licenses people who carry out certain security activities. Working in a licensable role without a licence is a criminal offence, and so is using someone who does not hold one. Checking is quick and it protects you.
Which Roles Need A Licence
Licensable activities include security guarding, door supervision, CCTV operation, close protection and key holding. Directors and managers of companies that supply licensable security staff under a contract also need a licence. The SIA explains who needs one on GOV.UK.
How To Check A Licence
- Ask the supplier for the name and licence number of each officer before the shift or event.
- Search the SIA's public register of licence holders on the SIA website to confirm the licence is valid, the dates, and the activity it covers.
- On the day, ask to see the officer's licence card. Check the photograph, the name, the expiry date and the activity.
What To Ask Your Supplier
- How do you check licences, and how often?
- Can I see the licence numbers of the people you are sending?
- What happens if someone arrives without a valid licence?
- Are you an SIA Approved Contractor, and for which activities?
What Happens If A Company Uses Unlicensed Staff
Using unlicensed staff in licensable roles can lead to prosecution, and directors have been convicted. For a venue or organiser it can also put insurance, licensing conditions and your reputation at risk. This is one reason that a supplier's systems for checking licences matter as much as its price. Our SIA Approved Contractor status means the SIA has assessed ours.
Event Stewards
Whether a steward needs a licence depends on the duties. People who only guide and help attendees usually do not. People who carry out licensable activities, such as controlling entry at a licensed venue, do. The SIA's events guidance explains where the line sits, and a good supplier will explain which of its staff are licensed for which role. For planning, see our event security planning checklist.