As of 1 April 2025, door supervisors or security guards will see new requirements for renewing Security Industry Authority (SIA) licences. Here, we explain how these changes may affect you if you work in the industry.

What Are the Key Changes?

From April 2025, anyone looking to renew their door supervisor or security guard licence must complete a refresher qualification. This training will be available from 1 October 2024.

To enrol in the refresher training, you must hold an up-to-date Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or an equivalent). This must be given to your training provider when registering for the course.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

The SIA is implementing these updates to ensure that professionals in the security industry are equipped to:

• Keep the public safe.
• Follow new work practices.
• Stay updated with changes in the law.
• Use the latest security technology.

For Door Supervisor Licence Holders

If you hold a door supervisor licence, you have two options:

1. Complete the door supervisor refresher training to renew your door supervisor licence.
2. Complete the security guard refresher training and switch to a security guard licence.

First Aid Training Requirements for SIA Licence Holders

You will need a first aid qualification to proceed with your training if:

• You are applying for your licence for the first time.
• It has been over three years since you last held an SIA licence.
• You are renewing your existing licence.

The Emergency First Aid at Work qualification is the minimum standard required. Your training provider can give more details if you are unsure whether your certification meets the requirements.

What Is Considered “Equivalent” to Emergency First Aid at Work?

Other qualifications are acceptable if they comply with Health and Safety Executive guidance. These include:

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

Your training provider can advise you on whether your qualification meets these standards.

In addition to the upcoming changes in 2025, several updates have already been implemented:

• 2021: New qualifications were introduced for most sectors, and a first aid qualification became mandatory for door supervisor and security guard training.
• 2022: Close protection operatives also saw updates, with new qualifications required for both initial applications and renewals.

What Does This Mean for You?

These changes are designed to better prepare security operatives for the challenges they face in their roles. Completing the required first aid and refresher training ensures that you stay compliant with SIA regulations and continue to provide a high level of service in your role.

For more information on these updates, visit Changes to the training you need for an SIA licence – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)