The SIA’s purpose is protecting the public through effective regulation of the private security industry and working with partners to raise standards across the sector. Its regulatory remit covers the whole of the United Kingdom.

The SIA has two main duties: the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities within the private security industry and the management of a voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme, which measures private security suppliers

against independently assessed criteria.

SIA licensing covers security operatives who are in guarding, door supervision, close protection, cash and valuables in transit, and public space surveillance using CCTV, vehicle immobilisation (in Northern Ireland) and key holding. Licensing ensures that private security operatives are fit and proper persons who are properly trained and qualified to do their job.

The SIA’s Approved Contractor Scheme sets out operational and performance standards for suppliers of private security services. Organisations that meet these standards are awarded Approved Contractor status. This accreditation provides purchasers of private security services with independent proof of a contractor’s commitment to quality.

The SIA believes that a professional, regulated private security industry is a valuable member of the extended police family, helping to reduce crime, disorder and the fear of crime.

The regulated private security industry protects people, property and premises and is made up of the following sectors:

• Door Supervision

• Security Guarding

• Public Space Surveillance CCTV

• Close Protection

• Cash and Valuable in Transit

• Key Holding

• Vehicle Immobiliser

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We also regulate and license non-Frontline licence holders, for example Company Directors and administration staff responsible for deploying security operatives.

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