What Is The Role Of A CCTV Operator?

What may seem to be a boring, static job is in actuality multi-faceted in nature, and at times, incredibly high-pressured.

Due to the influx of crime and terror threats both globally and nationally, the use of CCTV has become increasingly widespread throughout the UK. Consequently, this has resulted in the corresponding demand for skilled public surveillance operators in almost every industry and sector of the economy.

From commercial and corporate premises such as housing and retail complexes, councils and offices, to more sensitive locations such as educational establishments, hospitals and airports, it has become very apparent that the featuring of public surveillance security has become a norm and a necessity.

Whether you are a new entrant to the industry or are looking to enhance your existing career in security, a role in CCTV can offer opportunities for growth and advancement.

What does the role of a CCTV Operator involve?

The use of CCTV plays a vital role in what keeps our communities safe, serving as a useful tool to prevent and reduce crime by way of recording evidence for use in a court of law. But what can be expected of the person behind the screen?

The basis of a CCTV operator’s role is to safeguard the public, protect property, and ensure the security of data. This job entrusts you with many responsibilities, ranging from operating and monitoring banks of screens, reporting incidents as evidence, and potentially contacting the police and emergency services as and when required.

For the role to be completed efficiently, a CCTV operator needs to be exceedingly observant with a high level of concentration, and be able to divide their attention in order to monitor multiple occurrences taking place at a single setting.

They will have to have a good understanding of body language in order to monitor crowds, intercept trouble before it occurs, and track specific people. Strong communication skills are also needed when interacting with the police and other enforcement agencies, and the ability to work without supervision for long periods of time is absolutely essential to the role.

Most importantly, a CCTV operator must be quick thinking, using their initiative whilst reacting quickly and calmly during emergencies.

Throughout every duty undertaken, CCTV operators must be diligent, maintain integrity and accuracy, and ensure the confidentiality of all information gained by compliance in line with standards and legislation.

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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