The SIA have released a Freedom of Information (FOI) request relating to a prominent requirement for all security staff carrying out licensable activities.
The individual that raised the FOI enquiry was seeking information regarding the requirement for SIA licence holders to publicly display their licence while on duty. They inquire about the specific law and section of the Private Security Industry Act (2001) that states this requirement. They also ask about the typical punishment for breaching this licence condition and inquire about the proactive measures taken by the SIA to ensure licence holders comply with the display requirement.
The law stating that the licence must be displayed:
Section 9 of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIA 2001) establishes the conditions for granting an SIA licence and empowers the SIA to impose additional conditions. Section 9(c) of the PSIA 2001 specifically requires licence holders to display their licence while conducting licensed activities. The full text of Section 9 can be found in the Private Security Industry Act 2001.
Typical punishment for licence breach:
Contravening the conditions of an SIA licence, such as failing to display it, is a criminal offense under Section 9(4). The punishment for this offense can include a maximum term of imprisonment of 6 months, a fine, or both. The amount of the fine differs depending on the jurisdiction: unlimited in England and Wales, up to £10,000 in Scotland, and up to £5,000 in Northern Ireland.
SIA actions to ensure licence display:
The SIA employs regional investigation and compliance teams who conduct random inspections at licensed venues, festivals, etc. They may also conduct investigations based on intelligence received. The SIA issues warnings to individuals who fail to display their licence, proportionate to the situation. Additionally, the SIA reminds security providers and buyers of the legal requirement for licence holders to display their SIA licence. The SIA collaborates with partners, such as local police forces, to raise awareness of this requirement, and the police may issue warnings or report offences related to Section 9 of the PSIA 2001 to the SIA for further investigation.
See the full article on the Gov website by clicking the link below:
Was you fully aware of the consequences of not displaying an SIA licence while carrying out licensable activity?
Yes
No