SIA Training for CCTV Operators

The Security Industry Authority or SIA require all security staff to undertake specialist training courses in order to receive a licence allowing them to work in the security industry. SIA training is not required solely for security guards and door supervisors, as even those operating and monitoring CCTV surveillance equipment must also be licensed.  Those applying for a licence allowing them to work in the security industry must must first show that they have attended and passed the relevant SIA training course.

In order to monitor or operate closed circuit television equipment on either public or private property one must undertake the relevant training course in order to gain the SIA license which is required to carry out such work. There is a distinction between those who simply monitor closed circuit television footage through fixed cameras, such as a security guard on industrial premises and those who operate CCTV equipment providing real time surveillance, supporting the police and emergency services.

A person who has been contracted to operate CCTV equipment for public space surveillance (PSS) where either a fixed camera or one with a pan, tilt and zoom facility is required to undertake one of two SIA training courses aimed at CCTV operators. One would be pro-actively monitoring the activities of certain groups, individuals or employees; using the cameras to focus in on certain activities and/or follow the movements of individuals or groups. The cameras would also be used to spot certain individuals who's current whereabouts are unknown.

I addition to monitoring live closed circuit television images, a CCTV operator is also required to monitor recorded footage in order to learn more about a persons or groups activities, identify criminal behaviour, identify a trespasser or find potential eye witnesses. These scenarios require a code of conduct and certain working practises which must be adhered to, hence to mandatory SIA training courses for CCTV PSS operators. Undertaking such tasks without the necessary licence is only permitted where the operator is in direct employment be the owner of the surveillance equipment, known as an 'in house' operative as opposed to a 'contracted' operative.

SIA training courses and licensing for closed circuit television operatives are intended to establish national working standards throughout the security industry. If you're unsure whether you or your employees require SIA training, contact the Security Industry Authority via their website (sia.homeoffice.gov.uk) which details the requirements for CCTV operators and other roles throughout the security industry.