Employees in South Africa’s security industry play a crucial role in safeguarding homes, businesses, and public and private institutions like schools, universities, and hospitals. The country boasts one of the largest and most sophisticated security industries on the African continent.
With the demand for security and guarding services steadily increasing, there are numerous job opportunities available in this sector. Here we will outline the requirements for security jobs in South Africa, focusing primarily on becoming a security guard.
Becoming a Security Guard:
Starting as a security guard is often the entry point into the security industry and provides a stepping stone for career advancement. To embark on this path, aspiring security guards need to follow these steps:
Find an Accredited Training Provider: Look for a training provider that is accredited with the Safety & Security SETA (SASSETA). SASSETA is responsible for establishing and maintaining education and training standards in the private security sector.
Security guards are classified into different grades based on their duties and responsibilities. The grades range from A to E. Each grade has specific training requirements and duties associated with it. Here is an overview of the different grades:
Grade A: As a site manager or commander, Grade A security guards are responsible for overseeing multiple functions, managing the security workforce, conducting daily risk assessments and evaluations, and designing security solutions. They also possess basic investigative skills and problem-solving abilities.
Grade B: Grade B security guards handle access control in high-risk areas that may require documentation and basic computer skills. They can serve as site or shift commanders and may be responsible for managing lower grade security officers. They may also perform site visits as inspectors.
Grade C: Grade C security guards are tasked with access control in higher-risk areas and supervising lower grade security officers.
Complete Training:
Once you have chosen the appropriate grade, you need to enrol in the corresponding training course. The training curriculum covers essential skills and knowledge required for the specific grade. It is essential to successfully complete the training program provided by an accredited training centre.
Register with PSIRA:
After completing your training, you must register with The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) before you can offer security services. PSIRA is the regulatory body overseeing the private security industry in South Africa. To register, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Be a permanent resident of South Africa.
- Not have committed any offences listed in the Private Security Industry Regulation Act.
- Have completed training at an accredited training centre.
- Not be a current or former member of any official military, security police, or intelligence force in South Africa or elsewhere (former members require a clearance certificate).
Pay the Registration Fees: PSIRA requires a once-off registration fee of R240, along with an annual fee of R110.00. Once you have completed the registration process, you are ready to seek employment as a security guard.
Opportunities can be found in both the public and private sectors, with the majority of positions available in the private sector.
Grades D & E: Security guards in Grades D and E primarily focus on access control.
