As part of a multi-agency operation, the SIA, Strathclyde Police and UK Border Agency targeted door staff working at pubs and clubs in Glasgow last weekend [28-29 August]. Since November 2007, door staff working at pubs, bars and clubs in Scotland must hold a frontline SIA licence and display this while working. If they are employed directly by a venue as staff member, rather than through a contractor, the manager must hold a non-frontline licence.
97 door staff working at 15 venues were inspected with some offences under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 detected. One individual was found working without an SIA licence and three door staff were not displaying their licences. Police are considering taking further action against one individual for deploying an unlicensed operative. UKBA found some offences but none in relation to door staff.
Sharon Roberts, an SIA Head of Investigation said: “Whilst the majority of door staff inspected complied with the legislation, it was disappointing that some offences were detected and we will be working with the police to take the necessary action. Door staff are also reminded that they must comply with all licence conditions – including displaying the licence at all times while working.”
Chief Superintendent Anne MacGuire, Divisional Commander, Glasgow City Centre and West said: “The results from this operation demonstrate that there is now a high level of compliance with the legislation amongst stewarding staff in Glasgow City Centre venues. The professionalism of door stewards is a key factor in reducing assaults and violence within Glasgow City Centre and Strathclyde Police will continue to work closely with our partner agencies to ensure that the high standards required by the legislation are maintained.”