The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has released the latest results of its Operation Cornflower – targeting non-compliance of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIA) at public space surveillance CCTV suites covering shopping and retail outlets.
In three separate operations in the autumn, SIA investigators visited 25 CCTV suites in England and Wales, run by operatives from 17 private security companies.
Following the operations SIA investigators issued three warnings for offences relating to Section 3 of the PSIA (engaging in licensable conduct without a licence), 15 warnings for offences relating to Section 5 of the PSIA (providing unlicensed operatives) and nine ‘improvement notices’ to security companies.
Further action may be taken under Sections 3 and 5 of the PSIA, the regulator adds.
What they say
Poppy Saunders, an SIA Head of Investigation, said: "I’m aware there have been some claims of confusion over the legal definition of those who require an SIA Public Space Surveillance CCTV licence. However, the definition is clear (see notes) and managers and directors should ensure they fully understand the legislation and seriously consider the consequences before deploying unlicensed CCTV operators." The SIA started Public Space Surveillance CCTV licensing in June 2005. CCTV control room managers claimed of licence backlogs and a logjam in the training necessary for applying for the SIA licence.
