When providing professional security solutions for commercial properties, construction sites, and corporate events across regions like Cardiff, Bristol, and Bridgend, it is vital that your security staff are fully SIA licensed to operate legally and effectively.

To help clear up any confusion and explain the SIA licensing process, here is a helpful guide on what is required for security personnel.

When Can You Lawfully Work in a Licensable Role?

You can lawfully work in a licensable security role under the following specific circumstances:

  • Active Licence Holder: You hold a current, active licence for that exact activity, or you hold a current active licence for a different activity where SIA rules permit you to work in your role (for example, holding a door supervisor licence while working as a security guard).
  • Licence Dispensation Notice (LDN): You work for an SIA-approved contractor that has issued you with a personal LDN. For an LDN to be legally valid, ALL of the following conditions must be met:
  • Your SIA licence application must be at the ‘Checks in Progress’ stage.
  • Your application is for a sector in which your employer is officially approved.
  • The SIA has explicitly authorised the company to issue an LDN.

When You Cannot Lawfully Work

You cannot lawfully work while you are applying for an SIA licence if:

  • You do not work for an approved contractor.
  • You work for an approved contractor, but some or not all statutory conditions have been met.

Key Things to Note About SIA Licensing & LDNs