Yes, you need a licence to work as a bouncer or a security guard in the UK.
In this post we’ll outline the regulations for bouncers and security in the UK, and discuss how you can stay safe and compliant when recruiting security staff.
If you’ve any questions or concerns about your business insurance needs, we have a team of experts on hand to assist. They can also help you to understand the risks that you may face as a business. Contact us on 020 8290 9080 or email business@anthonyjones.com.
Rules For Bouncers, Door Staff, and Security Guards
In the UK, the private security sector is regulated by the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIA 2001). As part of this act, all private security personnel, whether they’re bouncers, door staff, or security guards, must have a Security Industry Authority (SIA) Licence.
What Are The Different SIA Licences?
Different SIA licences are available, and your security staff will need to get the relevant licence depending on their specific responsibilities:
- SIA Door Supervisor
- SIA Security Guard
- SIA CCTV Operator
Licences are valid for three years, and they do not renew automatically. It is against the law to perform security duties on an expired SIA licence.
How to Get an SIA Licence?
Anyone who wants to get any kind of SIA licence will have to go through a specialist training and assessment process. They will also have to supply various forms of ID, to prove they have the right to work in the UK. And they will have to complete top-up training courses whenever they wish to renew their licence.
What Are The Penalties of Hiring Unlicensed Security Staff?
It is a criminal offence to hire unlicensed security staff. Both you and your employees will face prosecution. You could end up in court, which could result in fines and a prison sentence.
There are additional risks to hiring unlicensed security staff. Unvetted bouncers or door staff may be untrained and unqualified to handle disputes. This could result in a security breach for your business, and it could even pose a public safety risk.
Plus, a major reason the Government first introduced PSIA 2001 was to fight certain criminal elements in the private security sector. If it transpires that your door staff are criminals, it could compromise your business’s security, and result in considerable damages to your reputation.
How To Ensure Your Business Stays Compliant With PSIA 2001
- Only work with reputable security firms. A reputable security firm will be transparent about how they vet their recruits, and how they comply with their regulations.
- Ask all security staff to show you their licences as part of your onboarding process. Photocopy them so that you have a record for each member of security personnel, and make a note of when they expire.
- Don’t just assume that your security personnel will renew their licences. Make a point of asking them about it, and do not allow them to work another shift until they’ve completed their top-up training.
Business Insurance Cover For Security Personnel
Your security personnel can act as a strong line of defence for your business. Comprehensive business insurance can offer a second line of defence, just in case anything goes wrong.
For your security personnel, you’ll need:
- Employer’s liability insurance – You have a legal requirement to get employer’s liability insurance to cover your staff for any accidents and injuries they may sustain while on the job.
- Public liability insurance – If your security personnel accidentally injure a member of the public while performing their duties, this individual may take legal action against you. In this case, public liability insurance will cover your staff, and your business, for any legal fees and compensation that may arise.
If you’ve any questions or concerns about your business insurance needs, we have a team of experts on hand to assist. They can help you ensure you stay compliant with all relevant regulations, and that you’re covered for all the risks you face. For more information, contact us on 020 8290 9080 or email business@anthonyjones.com.
