Many left it late in applying for their licence and, for this reason – among others – it’s possible that some security contractors might deploy unlicensed private security personnel on their customers’ premises to meet contractual obligations.
The purpose of this communication is to ensure that you, the client, are fully aware of the new laws governing the private security industry, and the potential risks arising from having unlicensed security personnel deployed within your own organisation.
In the event of an insurance claim, your cover could be invalid if it’s discovered that unlicensed security personnel have been deployed on your premises.
As of 4 August, 229 security companies had achieved Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) status. When purchasers of private security services appoint an SIA-Approved Contractor, they can be confident that the quality of service they’ll receive – and the capabilities of those individuals employed – meet the highest industry standards.
Approved Contractors are committed to customer service and the compulsory licensing of their staff. This means their customers can rest assured that every private sector security operative deployed on their premises will be working within the law (unless we have withdrawn the company’s authority to deploy staff whose licence applications are pending, which can be checked via the Public Register of Approved Contractors on our web site at www.the-sia.org.uk)
However, this has not been the case for all. Within recent weeks, some end users were let down by their security suppliers who were either deploying unlicensed officers or withdrawing their services at the last minute to avoid illegal operation.
The SIA has a range of enforcement options at its disposal to ensure compliance with the law. Our response to offences will be measured, fair and proportionate.
John Saunders OBE Chief Executive Security Industry Authority
