Security Guards and Door Supervisors are two sides of the same coin, both closely related in purpose, but with differing amounts of authority and responsibility. Whilst a licensed door supervisor can act as a security guard, a security guard even with the required license cannot take the place of a door supervisor. So how exactly do these roles differ?
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A SECURITY GUARD?
Broadly speaking, a security guard can work in a variety of non-licensed premises, including the retail and corporate sectors. Security guards are not licensed to work on-premises that permit alcohol consumption. Whilst the role of a security guard could vary depending on the client and industry, the basic element of the role is to ensure smooth functioning within the premises. This is done by ensuring the safety of the customers, general public and staff who frequent the premises and ensuring the protection of the property. It is also the security guard’s job to observe the surroundings, working to prevent and discourage any appearance of disorderly behaviour or theft and to report any suspicious occurrences or potential threats to police as appropriate.
The Security Guard Training course takes a total of 26 hours to complete, and the course includes a total of three modules. These are:
– Core Learning for Common Security Industry Knowledge
– Security Guarding Specialist Module
– Conflict Management Module
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A DOOR SUPERVISOR?
A Door Supervisor is a person who works on premises which are authorised by a local governing body. These generally include alcohol-serving premises such as bars, pubs, clubs, and entertainment venues. The role of the door supervisor is to take responsibility for the security and the safety of the visitors and customers within the premises. They have the responsibility of judging the suitability of persons entering the venue and are responsible for making appropriate decisions as to who gains entry and who is deemed unacceptable. Judging criteria may include the age and behaviour of people trying to gain access within the venue, i.e. whether the person is underage, is carrying harmful weapons or illegal substances, or is displaying unruly behaviour. Door supervisors are also responsible for maintaining order within the premises, managing crowds, dealing with conflicts and emergencies inside the venue, and co-operating with management and police.
The Door Supervision Training course is for a duration of 4 days. The course includes a total of 20 hours of classroom teaching and a written test. There are four units in the course:
– Working in the Private Security Industry
– Role and Responsibilities of the Door Supervisor
– Conflict Management and Communication Skills
– Physical Intervention
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH ROLE?
Whilst it is not necessary for a door supervisor or a security guard to have academic qualifications, it is necessary to obtain training to provide the framework for a complete understanding of the role, and to enhance the skills and approach of the individual toward the security industry. You will be authorised to apply for your SIA badge after completing your training. It is illegal to work in the security industry without a valid SIA License. Working within the industry without the proper licensing or training is a criminal offence that could result in high fines or prison. Hiring unlicensed staff is also against the law, and the employer will also be punished under the law.
SO WHICH TRAINING COURSE SHOULD I TAKE?
When deciding on which security course to take, we strongly advise customers to select the Door Supervisor Training course. This qualification entitles you to also take on security guard roles. In doing so, not only will you increase your employability by 200%, you are enhancing your prospects for more varied and higher-paying protection roles.
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 an SIA Licence.
To obtain an 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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