Does SIA require First Aid?

To obtain an SIA licence, you must now hold an approved First Aid qualification before starting your SIA licence training. This requirement applies to close protection officers, security officers, and door supervisors.

SIA First Aid Training is mandatory for both first-time applicants and those renewing their SIA licence. The SIA website provides a list of approved First Aid courses, with the Emergency First Aid at Work training being one of the most recommended options.

Do You Need A First Aid Certificate To Be A Security Officer?

Absolutely! Following the updated SIA guidelines, it is now mandatory for all security officers holding an SIA licence to complete First Aid training. This ensures they are better equipped to provide assistance to individuals in need of medical attention until professional help arrives.

What First Aid Qualifications Will The SIA Accept?

The SIA accepts Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualifications or equivalent certifications that provide security professionals with the same essential skills. These alternatives must comply with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines to be valid. Some examples of accepted courses include:

• First Aid at Work (FAW)
• First Person on Scene (FPOS)
• First Response Emergency Care (FREC)

Make sure to verify that your chosen course meets SIA and HSE standards before enrolling.

Does The SIA Course Include First Aid?

To obtain an SIA licence, you must already hold a First Aid qualification before starting licence-linked training. However, some training providers offer combined packages that include both First Aid training and the SIA licence course. Even with these combined courses, you must complete the First Aid training section before moving onto the rest of the course content.

What Is The New SIA Update About First Aid?

As part of recent updates, the SIA now requires all applicants to complete First Aid training before becoming eligible for a security guard or door supervision licence. This change was introduced following public consultation to enhance the industry’s standards and safety preparedness.

When Does The Update Take Place?

The new requirements came into effect on April 1, 2021. From this date, anyone applying for a new SIA licence must hold an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification or an equivalent before starting their training.

For those renewing their SIA licence, the changes have applied since October 1, 2021.

What Are The Requirements For This Update?

With close protection officers were previously required to have First Aid training, this expectation has now been extended to include all holders of an SIA security guard licence or door supervisor licence.

In addition to the first aid requirement, the updated SIA training includes modules on:

• Responding to emergencies and terror threat awareness.
• Sector-specific content tailored to different roles.
• Enhance practical assessments, such as managing conflict and using communication devices effectively.

Why Is The SIA Making These Changes?

The changes follow public consultation aimed at improving industry qualifications and safety standards. The goals is to ensure that private security professionals can play a key role in public safety. By requiring First Aid training, security personnel are better equipped to assist individuals who become unwell or injured, providing vital care until emergency services arrive.

How Much Does The SIA First Aid Course Cost?

The cost of the SIA-approved First Aid course ranges from £50 to £130, depending on the provider and location. These courses typically last one day, and many are now offered in-person or online.

What Skills Are Covered in the Emergency First Aid At Work Course?

The Emergency First Aid At Work course is an introduction to essential first aid skills tailored to the scenarios security guards and door supervisors may encounter. Training focuses on equipping participants with practical knowledge and boosting their confidence in handling medical emergencies. Topics typically include:

• Emergency life support: Managing unresponsiveness and breathing issues, including AED (automated external defibrillator) use.
• Seizures: Supporting individuals experiencing a seizure.
• Choking: Assisting someone who is choking.
• Bleeding control: Managing and reducing heavy bleeding.
• Shock: Calming and stabilising individuals in shock.
• Burn treatment: Providing care for burns.
• Basic first aid: Handling cuts, grazes, falls, and other minor injuries.

Why Should Security Guards Know First Aid?

There are several compelling reasons why First Aid training is crucial for security guards:

• Preparedness: It equips guards to respond effectively to unexpected emergencies.
• Life-savings skills: Proper training can mean the difference between life and death in critical situations.
• Career opportunities: Holding a First Aid certification can open up more job prospects in the security industry.

Stay up to date about the latest SIA news by visiting our news page where you’ll find articles covering topics such as the differences between an SIA frontline and a non-frontline licence, along with other essential industry insights.