Security companies usually have strict guidelines to ensure their employees are well-trained to handle different situations professionally and efficiently. While most security guards follow these rules and do their job as expected, there may be times when a guard doesn’t meet those standards.
If you experience an issue with a security guard’s behaviour, you might wonder what you can do. Can you file a complaint? In this article, we’ll explain how to handle such situations, your rights, and the steps for filing a complaint if necessary.
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How Do You Handle a Security Guard Situation?
If you find yourself in an incident with a security guard, it’s important to stay calm and, if possible, walk away to avoid escalating the situation. Should you feel the guard has acted inappropriately, make sure to note their name, badge number, or physical description. These details will be essential if you choose to file a complaint later.
Can I Make a Complaint About a Security Guard?
Many people wonder if it’s possible to file a complaint against a security guard, and the answer is yes. If you feel a security guard has acted inappropriately or failed to follow proper conduct, it’s important to submit a complaint. This helps ensure they are held accountable for their actions.
How to Complain About a Security Guard Incident
There are a few different ways to file a complaint about a security guard incident. You can write a formal complaint letter and send it either to the Security Industry Authority (SIA) or the company that employed the guard. Alternatively, you can complete and submit a complaint form directly through the SIA’s website.
How to File a Complaint Against a Security Guard
The best way to file a complaint against a security guard is directly with the SIA. When submitting your complaint, be sure to include as much relevant information as possible, such as the date and time of the incident, the security guard’s badge number, and a clear description of the guard’s actions or behaviour that made you uncomfortable.
You can file a complaint through the SIA’s website. If you have an online account, simply log in, click the option to contact the SIA, and select “Make a complaint or request information.”
If you don’t have an SIA account, you can still submit a complaint by using the contact form on their website. Alternatively, you can write a formal complaint letter and mail it directly to the SIA.
How Do I Write a Complaint Letter About a Security Guard?
When writing a complaint letter about a security guard, it’s important to remain clear, concise, and professional. This ensures your concerns are communicated effectively without unnecessary details or repetition. Start by addressing the letter to the appropriate person, whether it’s the head of the security company, the business that hired the guard, or the SIA.
In the body of the letter, include important details such as the date of the incident, the name or description of the security guard involved, and a step-by-step account of what happened. Be sure to mention any actions or statements made by the guard that contributed to your complaint. Additionally, explain the impact the incident had on you and what outcome you are hoping for as a result of your complaint.
Finally, make sure to provide your full name and contact information so that the organisation can respond to your complaint or reach out if they need further information. This ensures they can follow up with you once their investigation is complete.
Who You Should Complain To
There are four main avenues for filing a complaint about a security guard: the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the security company that employs the guard, the police, or the business that hired the guard. Below, we explain in detail how to file a complaint with each of these organisations.
Complaining to the SIA
If you believe a security guard with an SIA licence has broken the law, you should contact the SIA, as they actively seek this information. The SIA uses these reports as evidence to investigate the individual involved, in line with the Private Security Industry Act (PSIA) 2001.
After the investigation, the SIA has the authority to take enforcement actions if necessary. These actions are communicated directly to the security guard, but the SIA does not provide updates to the person who made the complaint. You can file a complaint with the SIA by either writing a letter or submitting through their website.
Complaining to the Police
If you believe a security guard has committed a criminal act, such as assault or abuse, and caused harm, you should contact the police immediately. The police have the authority to investigate the incident and pursue legal action through the British legal system.
When reaching out to the police, be sure to provide as much detailed information as possible. This includes the date and time of the incident, a description of the security guard, and a clear account of their actions that you believe were unlawful or inappropriate. The more information you can provide, the easier it will be for the police to investigate the matter.
Complaining to the Business That Has Hired the Guard
If no crime has occurred but you’re still unhappy with the behaviour of a security guard, it’s important to raise your concerns with the business that employs them. You can easily reach out to the company by email or phone, and ask to speak with a manager about the guard’s conduct.
Complaining to a Security Firm
If you believe a security guard has not performed their duties correctly, used excessive force, or acted inappropriately, you can file a complaint directly with the security company. All security companies have specific guidelines and standards that their employees must follow. When a company is made aware of a guard’s failure to meet these standards, they will typically investigate the issue and take action to protect their reputation and maintain customer trust.
The best way to contact a security company with a complaint is by calling, emailing, or using the contact form on their website. Be sure to provide as much detailed information as possible about the incident to help them understand the situation and respond effectively.
How to Report a Security Company
Sometimes, your complaint may be directed at a security company rather than an individual guard. In such cases, the best way to address the issue is by contacting the Security Industry Authority (SIA). You can submit a complaint either by writing a letter or by using the complaint form on the SIA’s website.
When reporting a security company to the SIA, you should have a valid concern, such as the company breaking the law, engaging in criminal activity, or employing unlicensed staff.
Why Would You Need to Complain?
There are several reasons why you might need to file a complaint against a security guard or security company. Some common reasons include:
- A security guard acting unprofessionally or inappropriately.
- A guard using an expired licence.
- A guard using a stolen or fraudulent licence.
- A security company presenting false or misleading credentials.
- A company falsely claiming to be part of the Approved Contractor Scheme.
- A security firm allowing guards to continue working after their licence has been revoked.
- A security company employing a guard without a valid licence.
So, How Do I Complain About a Security Guard Incident?
There are various ways to report a security guard, depending on the situation. If you believe a security guard has acted threateningly or broken the law, it is important to report them to the police or the SIA.
If the guard hasn’t committed a crime, but you are unhappy with their behaviour or treatment, you should report the issue to the security company they work for or the business that hired them. When making a complaint be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including a clear description of what happened, how the guard made you feel uncomfortable, the date and time of the incident, and a description of the guard.
To stay updated on the latest news about security guards, visit our blog for more information. There, you can find articles that discuss What Can Security Guards Take From You? and What Are Security Guards Allowed to Carry?
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