Essential Upskilling

The British Security Industry Authority (SIA) has demanded improvements to the training for security professionals, introducing new measures to bolster skills and establish consistent competence standards across the sector.

Among the notable advancements are the inclusion of medical skills and counter-terrorism awareness training, which are especially crucial for those working in the night-time economy. The SIA recognizes the diverse skill requirements across different sectors of the security industry, highlighting the importance of tailoring training to specific needs. Moreover, the approach to training delivery is shifting towards a hybrid model that combines classroom instruction with self-study, adapting to the dynamic nature of security operations.

Since October 2022, security professionals needing to renew their SIA licenses must complete further training to maintain the workforce's expected high standards; the sort that reinforces essential skills for emergency medical interventions, conflict management, physical interventions, and actions to counter terrorism.

These efforts to advance training and standards are pivotal in ensuring that security personnel are well-prepared for their roles and by establishing clear standards and fostering opportunities for professional development, the security industry is set for ongoing improvement and growth.

Yet, concerns have emerged about some training providers conducting physical intervention training in overcrowded or inappropriate spaces, prioritizing quantity over quality. This undermines the safety and effectiveness of the training, as illustrated in this recent video depicting a real-life event.

Context: On April 23, 2024, at 6:00 PM, the Mayor of San Jose was giving an interview to local reporters outside an event in downtown San Jose with the protection of just one CPO who serves full-time as a law enforcement officer. His inexperience is painfully obvious on so many levels.

Despite clear recommendations for secure and suitable training environments, certain organizations persist in ignoring these guidelines, thus undermining the quality and safety of the training for students undergoing the additional training required to renew their SIA licenses. 

The Professional Bodyguard Association advocates strongly for the necessity of safe training environments and promote optimal settings for effective and secure physical intervention training.

For example, our Liverpool venue, equipped with all required amenities, serves as an ideal model for realistic training scenarios. When investing in training, it is essential to demand the best possible conditions to ensure you are thoroughly equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for your role, with a focus on safety and practicality.

Medical Training for Close Protection Operatives!

For Close Protection Operatives (CPOs), selecting the right medical training course is pivotal due to the unique demands of their roles, which often place them in situations requiring a prominent level of preparedness to handle medical emergencies.

The selection among St John Ambulance First Aid at Work or similar courses, Qualsafe Level 3 First Response Emergency Care, QNUK Level 3 First Responder, and QNUK Level 3 First Person on Scene International should depend on the distinct needs of operational environments, the required depth of medical knowledge, and the specific practical skills that need to be acquired.

FAAW – Level 3 First Aid at Work (RQF) is a foundational course designed to equip individuals with the essential skills needed to perform first aid in the workplace. While it covers the basics, it might not delve into the depth required for the complex and unpredictable situations often encountered by Close Protection Operatives​ (Qualifications Network)​.

FREC – Qualsafe Level 3 First Response Emergency Care (RQF) is tailored for those who might be first on the scene at medical emergencies, including CPOs. It covers a wide range of emergency care topics, making it suitable for those in high-risk environments. The course is thorough, with practical assessments, multiple-choice question papers, and a detailed focus on both trauma and medical illness management​ (St John Ambulance)​.

FR – QNUK Level 3 First Responder (RQF) provides a more advanced level of first aid knowledge beyond standard training. It's particularly beneficial for those in security roles, focusing on skills such as advanced airway management and catastrophic haemorrhage control. This course is noted for meeting more level D competency descriptors on The Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh Faculty of Pre-hospital Care Pre-hospital Emergency Medicine (PHEM) framework, indicating its rigor and relevance​ (Life Saving Training)​.

FPOSI – QNUK Level 3 First Person on Scene International (RQF) is specifically designed for individuals working in environments where immediate care is essential. It has a strong reputation within the security sector for its relevant content and practical applications. This course surpasses other Level 3 pre-hospital care courses by aligning more closely with the Grade D and E descriptors of the PHEM Skill framework, suggesting a more comprehensive approach to pre-hospital care and particularly beneficial for Close Protection Operatives working internationally, given its global perspective and focus on a wide array of medical emergencies​ (Life Saving Training)​.

Considering the specialized nature of Close Protection, Qualsafe Level 3 First Response Emergency Care (RQF) and QNUK Level 3 First Person on Scene International (RQF) stand out as the more appropriate choices due to their extensive coverage of pre-hospital care topics, practical skills training, and alignment with the competencies required for high-risk operational settings.

The choice between these two would depend on the specific operational scope, with the latter being particularly beneficial for those working across international settings.

Regardless, each course has its strengths and is designed with different objectives in mind. It’s essential to evaluate the specific requirements of your role, the types of emergencies you are likely to encounter, and your career progression goals before deciding. Consulting with industry peers, employers, or professional advisors who understand the unique demands of close protection work will offer valuable insights into which qualification will best enhance your capabilities as a CPO.

What next?

Now that you have acquired the relevant training and certifications, what else can you do to make yourself an indispensable asset to your clients, team, and the industry, especially at the initial stages of your career?

Cultivate strong communication skills: Effective communication is vital in the close protection industry. Develop excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey information clearly and concisely. Learn to adapt your communication style to different individuals and situations, including clients, team members, and other stakeholders.

Foster cultural awareness and adaptability: Close protection professionals often work with clients from diverse backgrounds. Cultivate cultural sensitivity and adaptability to ensure you can meet the needs and expectations of various individuals and adapt your approach to different environments.

Build a strong professional network: Establish connections within the close protection industry, including fellow professionals, trainers, and industry experts. Networking can provide valuable opportunities for career advancement, learning, and collaboration.

Exhibit a strong work ethic: Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and dedication to your work. Show a willingness to go the extra mile to ensure the safety and well-being of your clients. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Develop problem-solving skills: Enhance your ability to think critically and solve problems effectively. Close protection professionals often face unpredictable situations that require quick decision-making and adaptability. Cultivate a proactive and resourceful mindset to address challenges efficiently.

Continuous learning: Stay intellectually engaged by reading books, articles, and research papers related to close protection, security, psychology, and other relevant subjects. Stay updated on current affairs, geopolitical events, and emerging security threats. Pursue professional development opportunities such as advanced training courses or certifications.

Emotional intelligence: Develop your emotional intelligence to understand and manage your own emotions and effectively navigate interpersonal relationships. This skill is essential for building rapport with clients, defusing conflicts, and maintaining a calm and composed demeanour in high-pressure situations.

Stress management: Close protection work can be demanding and stressful. Develop effective stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, exercise, or hobbies that help you relax and recharge. Practice self-care to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout.

Critical thinking and problem-solving: Sharpen your critical thinking skills to analyse complex situations, evaluate risks, and make sound decisions. Engage in mental exercises such as puzzles or riddles that challenge your problem-solving abilities and enhance your cognitive agility.

Resilience and adaptability: Cultivate resilience to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to changing circumstances. The close protection industry often requires flexibility and the ability to quickly adjust plans or strategies. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities and develop a positive and proactive mindset.

Effective communication and negotiation: Strengthen your communication and negotiation skills to handle difficult or high-stakes situations. Learn techniques to de-escalate conflicts, defuse tense situations, and effectively communicate with clients, team members, and stakeholders.

Mental preparation: Prioritize mental preparation before assignments or high-risk situations. Visualize scenarios and mentally rehearse your responses, enabling you to react swiftly and confidently when faced with potential threats or emergencies.

Stay physically fit: Physical fitness is crucial in the close protection industry. Maintain a regular exercise regimen to stay in peak physical condition. A fit body enables you to perform essential tasks, respond quickly, and endure demanding situations.

Seek diverse experiences: Gain experience in various close protection roles, such as working with different clients, industries, or geographical locations. Diversifying your experience broadens your skill set and makes you more adaptable to different scenarios.

Continuously improve your skills: Stay updated with the latest industry trends, techniques, and best practices. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to close protection to expand your knowledge and skills. Regularly practice and refine your physical fitness, defensive tactics, and firearms proficiency (if permitted).

Remember, becoming invaluable in the close protection industry is a continuous process. It requires ongoing self-improvement, professional development, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of your work.