A Year of Higher Standards and Safer Practice
April 2026 marks one full year since the Security Industry Authority (SIA) introduced mandatory first aid training for Door Supervisors and Security Guards. This milestone represents a significant shift in the professionalism, preparedness and public safety standards across the UK’s security sector.
At Remote First Aid, we’ve supported hundreds of security professionals and employers through this transition — delivering compliant, scenario‑rich training that strengthens confidence and competence on the ground.
Why the SIA Changed the Rules
In April 2025, the SIA confirmed that first aid training was no longer optional — it became a legal requirement for anyone applying for or renewing a Door Supervisor or Security Guard licence. Before starting their licence‑linked training, every applicant must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate that is valid for at least another 12 months from the start of the SIA licence-linked training.
Three key drivers reshaped the SIA’s first aid rules:
1. Security Staff Are First on Scene
Security professionals routinely encounter medical emergencies long before paramedics arrive. The SIA recognised that consistent, regulated first aid skills save lives.
2. Raising Professional Standards
The new rules form part of the SIA’s wider mission to improve competence, consistency and public trust across the industry.
3. Reflecting the Modern Security Role
Today’s security professionals manage crowds, support welfare, respond to incidents and provide reassurance. First aid is now a core part of that responsibility.
What Qualifications Are Required?
To comply with SIA rules, licence applicants and renewals must hold:
- Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) – minimum requirement
- Must have been held for 12 months before starting SIA initial training
- Accepted equivalents include:
- First Aid at Work (FAW)
- Other Level 3 regulated first aid qualifications, such as the Emergency Care First Responder (RQF) qualification
This ensures every security professional enters their SIA training with up‑to‑date, practical, life‑saving skills.
Who Has Been Affected Over the Past Year?
New Applicants
Anyone applying for a Door Supervisor or Security Guard licence must show evidence of a valid first aid qualification held for at least a year.
Renewing Licence Holders
Renewals require a current EFAW (or equivalent) before completing the SIA‑mandated refresher training.
One Year Later: What Has Improved?
The first anniversary of the rule change gives us a clear picture of its impact:
✔ A More Competent Workforce
Security professionals now enter roles with consistent, regulated first aid skills — improving incident response across venues, events and public spaces.
✔ Greater Public Confidence
Members of the public know that licensed security staff can provide immediate, effective assistance in an emergency.
✔ Reduced Employer Liability
Businesses benefit from a safer workforce, stronger compliance and improved risk management.
✔ Better Career Progression
Professionals with recognised first aid qualifications are more employable and more confident in high‑pressure situations.
How Remote First Aid Has Supported the Industry
Over the past year, Remote First Aid has delivered SIA‑aligned training across Wales and the UK, helping individuals and employers stay compliant and confident.
Our most popular SIA‑compliant courses include:
- Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work (1 day) Practical, scenario‑based training covering CPR, AED use, bleeding control, casualty assessment and incident management.
- Level 3 First Aid at Work (3 days) Comprehensive training for those needing deeper knowledge of injuries, illnesses and workplace responsibilities.
- Annual First Aid Refresher (½ day) Ideal for maintaining confidence and competence between formal requalification cycles.
All courses are delivered by experienced trainers using realistic simulations and clear, confidence‑building instruction.
Why Security Professionals Choose Remote First Aid
- Nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications
- Training aligned with SIA requirements
- Realistic, scenario‑based learning tailored to security environments
- Flexible delivery across Wales, the UK and onsite for employers
- Clear certification accepted for licence applications and renewals
We help security professionals not just meet the standard — but exceed it.
Looking Ahead: Year Two and Beyond
The first year of mandatory first aid training has already strengthened the security sector. As we move into year two, the focus shifts to:
- Maintaining high standards
- Ensuring timely renewals
- Supporting employers with consistent, compliant training
- Building a safer, more confident workforce
- Aligning with the incoming Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, (Martyn’s law) and the SIA’s new regulatory role in this area
- Supports Duty Holders in this new Act
Remote First Aid remains committed to supporting the industry with high‑quality, accessible, regulation‑aligned training.
Book Your SIA‑Compliant First Aid Course
Whether you’re applying for your first licence or renewing your badge, we’ll help you stay compliant, confident and ready to respond.
Strengthen your skills. Protect your licence. Protect the public.