SIA Targets High Risk Security Firms in Scotland

This week, teams of Investigators from the Security Industry Authority (SIA) visited construction and retail sites across Scotland's central belt;

checking security staff were legally being deployed under the Private Security Industry Act 2001.

On 12th and 13th November, 53 sites (operated by 11 security companies) were visited and Investigators discovered 39 Section 3 offences (working without an SIA licence) and 1 Section 9 offence (not displaying an SIA licence). Further action is being considered.

11 operatives were deployed lawfully and were wearing their SIA licences.

Jennifer Pattinson, an SIA Head of Investigation said:

"It is disappointing that a large number of security operatives were deployed and working without SIA licences. Of the 11 companies targeted, we identified and warned 10 of them in September that they were in danger of not being adequately prepared for licensing. Two months on and most of these companies are acting unlawfully by deploying unlicensed staff.

As we make clear in our published enforcement policy - we always take a fair and proportionate approach to any enforcement action and we work with individuals and companies to help them comply with the law. However, we expect compliance with the law at all times and further action may be taken under the terms of the Private Security Industry Act 2001."

Notes to Editors:

• It is now an offence throughout Great Britain, to work in designated sectors of the private security industry without an SIA licence. The designated sectors are: Door Supervisor (in-house & contact), Security Guard (contractors), Cash & Valuables in Transit (contractors), Public Space Surveillance CCTV (contractors), Close Protection (contractors), Key Holders (contractors), Vehicle immobilising (England and Wales only)
• To obtain a licence applicants must:
  • meet training standards set by the SIA and attain a national qualification
  • provide proof of identity and age
  • undergo a criminal record check
  • have the right to work in the UK
  • not have been sectioned under the Mental Health Act in the last five years.
• The penalties for offences under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 are potentially severe - for the most serious offences, fines are unlimited and can carry a sentence of imprisonment of up to five years.