BSIA welcomes 'top-up training' for door supervisors

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has welcomed the Government's consultation paper on the proposed introduction of additional training for door supervisors.

Launched in December 2009, the consultation aims to make new skills in physical intervention, first aid, dealing with young people and awareness of the threat of terrorism, a basic requirement for all door supervisors either renewing an existing licence or new entrants to the industry who are applying for one for the first time.

BSIA Leisure Industry Section Chairman, Tony Clarke, comments: "Door supervisors deal closely with a real cross-section of the public, so it's important that they have sufficient training in order to reduce conflict and protect both themselves and others.

"At the BSIA, we are pleased to see that the Home Office has taken on board some of the suggestions put forward by the security industry and recognise the commitment to industry best practice that this proposal represents. Door supervisors already play a vital role in the night-time community and this further training will only enhance their ability to protect the public in challenging situations."

The additional training requirements will form part of the licence application process for new door supervisors from as early as June 2010, with top-up training for existing licence-holders introduced from May 2011 should the consultation be approved.

To find out more about the BSIA's Leisure Industry Section, visit www.bsia.co.uk/doorsupervision

The consultation can be viewed at the Home Office website: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/documents/cons-2009-door-supervisors/index.html