In the UK, demand for security guards has risen sharply as businesses face increasing concerns over crime. Companies are now prioritising the protection of their assets and employees, making skilled security personnel essential. By earning qualifications as a security guard, you gain a valuable skill set that can open many career paths within the security industry. The profession can be very rewarding, with an incredibly variety of roles depending on which business you choose to work for.

If you’re looking to become a security guard, but aren’t quite sure where to begin, this is the article for you. From mandatory training to the steps you need to take to start your career, our comprehensive guide covers all the essentials to help you succeed.

Understanding the Role of a Security Guard

When looking to become a security guard, it’s important to understand their purpose and scope of their responsibilities in a business setting. Primarily, security guards are there to protect people, businesses, buildings, and assets within the buildings. Through their tasks and duties, security guards are able to fulfil these roles.

Types of Security Sectors

Within the security industry, there are a lot of sectors that guards can choose to work in. Below, we have listed some examples of sectors guards will commonly work in, and what their main goals are:

• Retail Security: Protecting merchandise, preventing theft, and assisting customers.
• Corporate/Office Security: Ensuring the safety of employees, visitors, and assets within the premises.
• Event Security: Managing crowd control, checking tickets, and ensuring safety during public events.
• Construction Security: Managing site access, preventing theft of equipment and tools, and ensuring on-site safety.
• Warehouse Security: Preventing vandalism and theft, checking ID badges, managing vehicle access, and monitoring CCTV systems.
• Airport Security: Monitoring passengers, luggage, and ensuring compliance with airport rules and regulations.

Key Duties of a Security Guard

There are many duties that security guards can be responsible for, especially when there are so many sectors and environments they can work across. Depending on the industry they work in, their scope of duties can change. With these possibilities in mind, we have listed commonly seen responsibilities that security officers can have:

• Monitoring and securing assigned premises.
• Conducting regular patrols to prevent and respond to any security incidents.
• Handling security equipment like surveillance cameras, communication tools, and alarms.
• Engaging in conflict resolution and de-escalating potentially tense situations.
• Helping prevent the loss or damage of valuables.
• Collaborate with law enforcement or emergency services in the event of an incident.
• Document any activities or disturbances that have occurred at their assigned site.
• Report all incidents to their supervisors.
• Ensuring entrances and exits are properly secured, including windows.
• Monitoring surveillance systems if required by the business.
• Potentially interview witnesses or testify in court.
• Helping customers or clients in more customer-facing roles, such as retail and reception security.
• In some roles, keeping track of all visitors who enter the building.

Qualifications and Requirements to Become a Security Guard

There are multiple qualifications and requirements that a security officer will need to meet in order to become a security guard in the UK. Some of these are:

• Applicants need to be at least 18 years old.
• Passing a required ID check.
• Undergoing a criminal records check.
• Proving that you have the legal right to work in the UK.
• Having the relevant security guard licence.
• If you are pursuing a job in construction security, you will need to have a CSCS card, as it shows that you can operate safely.

How Do I Get an SIA Licence?

To become a security guard, you are required to have an SIA security guard licence in order to work as an officer. When applying for an SIA security guard licence, be sure to pay careful attention to the licence you’re getting, as different licences are required to work in different sectors.

What is an SIA Licence?

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the UK security industry, ensuring all security personnel meet essential standards. An SIA licence is mandatory for those looking to become a security guard and work within the private security industry within the UK.

Types of SIA Licences

Depending on the security sector you want to work in you may require a different licence. Some of the main types of security guard licences are:

• Front-Line Licence: This type of licence is for active security guards who will work on-site. The licence received is a plastic card that will need to be displayed or worn at all times when on duty.
• Non-Front-Line Licence: This type of licence is for people who want to manage, supervise or hire active security guards. Rather than a plastic SIA card, the licence is instead a letter.
• SIA CCTV Operative Licence: With this licence, you are allowed to operate and monitor, and work with surveillance systems. Alone, this can be one of the most restrictive licences, but combined with the door supervisor licence, you can do practically any job within the industry.
• SIA Close Protection Licence: Close protection licences are for those looking to become bodyguards. This role primarily revolves around protecting dedicated people, rather than businesses, sites, and buildings.
• SIA Security Guard Licence: This is the most standard security guard licence, allowing you to perform general security guard duties, except door supervision.
• SIA Door Supervisor Licence: The door supervisor licence is one of the most flexible SIA licences available. It lets you work across all manner of environments and perform door supervision capabilities.

There are additional licences available, such as cash and valuables in transit, vehicle immobiliser and key holding licences, to name a few. Because of this, pay careful attention to the licences you’re getting to become a security guard.

How to Get Licenced

The first thing you will need to do in order to be eligible for your SIA licences is ensure that you have completed all relevant SIA-approved training courses. These courses may require you to take an exam, which will be used to see if you pass the course or not.

You may also be required to undergo basic first aid training courses to become a security guard. First aid training allows you to provide assistance in the event of a medical emergency. Once you have all completed all the relevant training courses, you will need to pass exams in order to gain the required qualifications.

Please bear in mind that you will need to find an SIA-approved training provider, or else your qualifications may not be valid.

Only after completing these steps can you apply for an SIA licence through the official SIA website. It is worth noting that you will be required to pay certain fees for your licence. To learn more about how to apply for an SIA licence, visit the SIA website.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Security Guard?

When applying to become a security guard, there are several costs to consider, including expenses for training courses and obtaining an SIA licence. These costs can vary depending on the specific type of licence required and the level of training you need. However, generally, you can expect that it will cost a few hundred pounds in total.

On average, an SIA security guarding licence will cost £184. Basic training courses, which are required to qualify for licences, cost around £180. Additionally, with the SIA now requiring you to take a first aid certification, you may need to pay an extra £50 to £130 for that, depending on the provider and location.

Altogether, these costs ensure that someone looking to become a security guard is equipped with the essential skills and certifications. This ensures they meet industry standards and maintain a safe, professional approach to their role.

However, some employers may be willing to cover these costs, especially for candidates that show a lot of promise. This helps to make it easier for newcomers who are looking to enter the industry.

What Skills Should a Security Guard Have?

There is a variety of skills that candidates will need to become a security guard. Listed below are some of the most desirable security guard skills:

• Alertness: Security guards must stay focused, avoid distractions, and pay close attention to their surroundings. Due to the possibility of long shifts, guards should consider if they can maintain vigilance over longer periods.
• Trustworthiness: Reliability is crucial, as companies must trust guards to protect their business. Punctuality, professionalism, and the ability to deter crime contribute to a trustworthy reputation.
• Physical Fitness: Security guards should be in good physical condition to respond quickly and effectively. Physical fitness not only enhances performance, but also boosts mental alertness, and quick reflexes are essential for assessing and responding to incidents.
• Good Communication: Effective communication, both spoken and written, is crucial for documenting incidents and interacting with others. Guards must be able to report events accurately and engage with the public professionally.
• Calm Under Pressure: Guards often face high-stress situations and must stay calm to handle emergencies confidently and effectively.
• Public Safety Knowledge: Understanding public safety protocols allows guards to prepare for potentially dangerous situations and respond appropriately.
• Customer Service Skills: Especially important in roles like retail or corporate security, good customer service skills help guards interact positively with the public, assist with inquiries, and create a welcoming environment.

These qualities collectively help security guards maintain a safe, professional presence while upholding the responsibilities of their role.

How to Get a Job as a Security Guard

Once you’ve completed your training and received your SIA licence, you’re ready to start applying for security guard positions. Job search platforms like Indeed, sending tailored emails, and reaching out directly to a company’s recruitment team are excellent ways to explore security job opportunities, often helping you find roles close to your location.

When applying for security guard roles, ensure you have the following documents and information ready:

• An up-to-date CV
• Proof of address
• Two professional references
• Relevant skills and knowledge for the position
• A cover letter or application letter specific to each job

It also helps to research each company before applying, as interviewers often ask why you’re interested in their specific role. Knowing this can help you convey your enthusiasm and show that you’re serious about working with them.

Carefully review your CV for each application. Tailor it to highlight the specific skills and experiences relevant to each role, demonstrating why you’re an ideal candidate. This personal touch can make a strong impression on hiring managers, letting them know why you should become a security guard.

If you secure an interview, review your CV thoroughly, as interviewers may use it to guide their questions. Be prepared to discuss your previous experience, training, and the skills that make you well-suited for the position.

If your application isn’t successful, take the opportunity to refine your CV. Ensure it fully represents your skills and experience. For those who reach the interview stage, but don’t get the job, consider areas to improve your interview performance to boost your chances in future applications.

Who is Hiring Security Guards?

Most security guards find employment through private companies or specialised security agencies. These agencies provide businesses with guards for a variety of needs, whether it’s securing a one-time event, overseeing long-term property security, or providing personal protection for individuals.

Typically, job openings with security agencies or private firms are advertised on their own websites or through popular job search platforms like Indeed. This makes it easy for people who want to become a security guard to explore and apply for positions that match their skills and preferences.

To stay updated with all the latest security guard news, check out our news & insights page where you can find articles about what a security guard does and how to renew your SIA licence.