Businesses That Use Unlicensed Security Staff Put Public At Risk 24 June 2022

Security Industry Authority (SIA) investigators have discovered many cases of security staff working without licenses during a series of spot-checks throughout the country. The SIA is responsible for the monitoring of SIA licence holders and regularly completes routine checks, with the support of the police.

During the checks many staff performing roles in the night-time economy, were found to be working without a licence. A spokesperson for the SIA said investigators will now follow up on those found operating illegally. The organisation is responsible for criminal investigations in the industry and do prosecute if considered appropriate.

Pete Eastbrook, SIA Head of Criminal Investigations said: “The purpose of the SIA is to protect the public through effective regulation. Members of the public should be able to enjoy their nights out, confident that the venues they attend are secured by vetted, qualified and licensed people.

The vast majority of the private security industry take their obligations seriously and recognise the important role the private security industry plays in keeping the public safe. There are however a small number of people and businesses who ignore the regulation, and in doing so place the public at risk.”