After contract guard licences become complusory in 2006, private investigators are the next sector for licensing.
The last six months have seen a National Occupational Standard for Investigation developed.
A National Occupational Standards for Investigators, Working Party Group consisted of: Ian J Hopkins, Alan Marr, Richard J Newman, Polly Sprenger and Ian Withers. They represented the industry bodies the Institute of Professional Investigators (IPI); Association of British Investigators (ABI); World Association of Private Investigators (WAPI); and Ex-Police in Commerce (EPIC).
With Alan Martin, Head of Standards at SITO, assisted by Carol Oldfield from the training body, and input from Liz Challens of the Security Industry Authority, have come the occupational standard. You can view it at www.PSIAct.org.uk
The working group asks for replies to the questionnaire to go via the electronic version of the standard, available from Carol Oldfield at SITO at c.oldfield@sito.co.uk. You can also copy the questionnaire and post it to her at SITO, Security House, Barbourne Road, Worcester WR1 1RS or fax it back on 01905 724949.
The SIA are to jointly host a conference with The Investigators Sector Group of JSIC on Wednesday, November 16, at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Bushey. The competency criteria for those involved in investigations in the private sector will be officially launched – that is, what qualification you need to get the SIA licence. Invited speakers include: Peter Hermitage, SIA chairman; on National Occupational Standards, Alan Martin, SITO; on criteria and exemptions for PI Licensing, Kevern Oliver, SIA; a European Perspective, Nick Smith, SIA. The event is however fully booked.
