The role of a security professional goes far beyond monitoring premises and controlling access. As often the first people on the scene during an incident, security officers and door supervisors are relied upon to protect lives in critical moments.
To ensure public safety, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) requires every door supervisor and security guard to hold a valid first aid qualification before they begin their licence-linked training. Here is a breakdown of exactly what is required to get your licence.
You cannot begin your SIA Door Supervisor or Security Guard training without a regulated first aid qualification. The minimum requirement accepted by the SIA is an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate, or an equivalent qualification like the comprehensive 3-day First Aid at Work (FAW).
Having an old certificate won't cut it. Your first aid qualification must have at least 12 months of validity remaining on the first day of your SIA licence-linked course. If your certificate is close to expiring, you will need to complete a refresher course before you can enrol in your security training.
The realities of the security industry are constantly evolving. Since October 2024, the SIA mandates that all first aid qualifications used for a licence application must explicitly cover how to respond to life-threatening bleeding and how to keep airways open.
While some theory can be learned online, the SIA requires that the practical elements of your first aid training be taught and assessed face-to-face. You must physically demonstrate competence in crucial life-saving skills, including:
If you are already working in the industry, you are not exempt from these rules. To renew your Door Supervisor or Security Guard licence, you must complete mandatory Top-Up training. You must show proof of a valid first aid certificate before you can even take these Top-Up modules.
At Hallmark College, we make getting qualified easy. Our comprehensive security courses can integrate the mandatory Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work certification directly into your training package, ensuring you meet all SIA requirements efficiently.
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