The very essence of your security designation is carried in one important item. The SIA badge is your key to working as a validated security professional. Not only is it a requirement by law to carry your SIA licence on your person while working in the UK, it’s also beneficial to do so.
Here are five reasons why you should obtain an SIA badge and keep with you while on the job.
1. You can be checked randomly by the SIA
The SIA does random spot checks on security guards, door supervisors and close protection units. These spot checks are to ensure that security personnel are working as qualified professionals. Because security impersonation is a problem in the UK, authentic security must be able to prove that they are who they say they are.
This is very similar to a police badge. A police officer may not conduct his duties unless he is identifiable as an officer. That identification is represented by his badge, and should therefore be carried with him always. Your job in security carries the same level of importance.
2. You will land better security jobs
When you go for interviews, your interviewer will likely ask to see your SIA badge. If you can’t present one, it’s highly unlikely that you will get that job. There may be some employers who won’t ask you about an SIA badge, but these are usually menial jobs that don’t pay well. Stay true to the security training you received and remain professional. An SIA badge is evidence that you’ve done due diligence in obtaining your SIA licensing the legal way.
3. Your qualification gives you authority
As someone working in security, you may be asked to identify yourself to the public. Your SIA badge should be pinned on your chest so that others can see who you are and what you are designated to do. There’s a certain level of authority & responsibility which you possess when you’re charged with protecting an area, a building or a person. Affirm that authority with your SIA badge.
4. It’s illegal to work security in the UK without an SIA badge
The SIA is a legal regulatory agency that monitors security in the UK. It is therefore illegal to work a security job without the proper qualification. Why is this?
- There are many criminals who impersonate security guards to commit crimes.
- An SIA badge ensures that a criminal check has been conducted and that you are a trusted member of the security industry.
- People around you must know what your designation is so that you can better protect them
- Emergency situations close to you may call for quick action, and an SIA badge tells others who you are and what you are qualified to do
There are some exceptions to this rule. If you are working as an undercover security unit, or if you are working as a close protection unit, the badge does not have to be carried on your person. That’s because these jobs require discretion and sometimes even complete secrecy. All other security jobs however must comply with the SIA badge regulations as set out by the SIA.
5. It validates you if you are questioned while undercover
If you are working as a store detective or in close protection, an SIA badge doesn’t need to be displayed on you. However, it’s still important to own an SIA badge because you may be questioned while working your confidential security job. Unless you can point to the whereabouts of your SIA badge, the authorities have the right to detain you and assume that you are an imposter.
Obtain a valid SIA badge by completing an SIA approved security course. Get Licensed can help you get the most out of your security career. The first step to validating your identity as a security officer working in the UK is by having an SIA badge with you always.
How to work in the security sector
If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain a SIA Licence.
To obtain a SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.
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