The Complete Security Guard Training Syllabus

A complete guide to all training units and chapters required for the SIA Security Guard licence.

Security Guard Training Units

This unit introduces learners to the private security industry, covering its role, regulations, and responsibilities.

Chapter 1: The Characteristics and Purposes of the Private Security Industry

Understanding the role of private security and its collaboration with law enforcement.

Key security measures and professional standards.

Chapter 2: Legislation Awareness

Legal framework governing the security industry.

Understanding civil and criminal law applications.

Chapter 3: Arrest Procedures

Rights and limitations of security officers in performing a citizen's arrest.

Importance of calling the police promptly and handling detained individuals legally.

Chapter 4: Health and Safety

Workplace safety regulations and emergency response protocols.

Responsibilities of employers and employees under the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Chapter 5: Fire Awareness

Identifying fire hazards and using appropriate fire-fighting equipment.

Fire evacuation procedures and responsibilities of security officers in fire emergencies.

Chapter 6: Emergencies

Handling different emergency situations, including bomb threats, floods, and gas leaks.

Security roles in evacuations and emergency response coordination.

Chapter 7: Communication

Verbal and non-verbal communication skills for effective security operations.

Use of radios, phonetic alphabets, and effective conflict communication.

Chapter 8: Record Keeping

Maintaining accurate reports and documentation for incidents.

Legal implications of incorrect or missing records.

Chapter 9: Terror Threats and the Role of the Security Officer

Recognising and responding to potential terror threats.

UK terrorism threat levels and security industry responses.

Chapter 10: Keeping Vulnerable People Safe

Identifying and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Responding to safeguarding concerns and preventing exploitation.

Chapter 11: Post-Incident Management

Managing incidents after they occur, including reporting and debriefing.

Accessing post-incident support for security officers.

This unit covers the responsibilities of a security officer, including crime prevention and access control.

Chapter 1: The Role of the Security Officer

Key responsibilities in different environments (retail, corporate, public venues).

Legal duties and limitations of security officers.

Chapter 2: Access and Egress Control

Controlling access to secure sites and preventing unauthorised entry.

Managing visitor logs, keyholding, and ID verification.

Chapter 3: Electronic and Physical Protection Systems

Understanding and using CCTV, alarm systems, and security barriers.

Managing security system maintenance and false alarms.

Chapter 4: Minimizing Risk to Personal Safety at Work

Dynamic risk assessments and situational awareness.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) and lone working procedures.

Chapter 5: Drug Awareness

Recognising signs of drug use and dealing in a security setting.

Handling drug-related incidents and following proper reporting procedures.

Chapter 6: Searching Procedures

Legal guidelines for conducting searches on individuals and property.

Safe handling of prohibited items and confiscation procedures.

Chapter 7: Patrolling

The importance of visible patrols in crime prevention.

Conducting effective patrols, using security logs, and incident response.

This unit teaches security officers how to manage conflicts and de-escalate tense situations effectively.

Chapter 1: The Principles of Conflict Management

Understanding conflict dynamics and early warning signs.

The role of security officers in preventing and managing conflicts.

Chapter 2: Recognising Risks in Conflict Situations

Identifying potential threats and managing aggressive behaviour.

Using risk assessments to determine appropriate responses.

Chapter 3: Problem-Solving Techniques

Using negotiation and active listening to de-escalate conflicts.

Handling difficult customers and preventing physical altercations.

Chapter 4: Using Communication to Help Resolve Conflict

Best practices for verbal and non-verbal communication in security roles.

Using professional communication to defuse tense situations.

Exam Information

  • Exam Name: Principles of Working in the Private Security Industry
  • Number of Questions: 72
  • Pass Mark: 70% (51/72)
  • Time Allowed: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Exam Name: Principles of Working as a Security Officer
  • Number of Questions: 60
  • Pass Mark: 70% (42/60)
  • Time Allowed: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Exam Name: Applications of Conflict Management
  • Number of Questions: 20
  • Pass Mark: 70% (14/20)
  • Time Allowed: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Course Duration: 32 hours over a period of 4 days
  • Practical Assessments: Covering the use of radio, report writing, searching, and conflict management.
  • Exam Conducted: On the final day of the Security Guard training course.
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The course runs over four days, including practical assessments and exams.

No prior qualifications are required, but you must be at least 18 years old and have the right to work in the UK.

If you fail any unit, you will need to retake the exam for that specific section. The exam retake fee is £90 unless you have signed up for the Gold or Platinum package, which includes unlimited retakes.

Exam results are typically emailed and sent via SMS within 7 working days after completing the test.

Once you have passed all units and assessments, you can apply for your SIA Security Guard licence online via the Security Industry Authority (SIA) website.

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