While not yet formally announced, the SIA has confirmed that from April 1st 2020, all new license holders will be required to undertake mandatory First Aid training. While this is only currently affecting new applicants, it is expected that this will be extended to all existing badge holders in the near future.
This news has been welcomed by those in the industry 
with several approved trainers hailing the move as a solid step forward in raising standards.
Magenta Security Services, Managing Director, Abbey Petkar was quick to put out a statement praising the decision and throwing his support behind it.
“First aid training is highly regulated, recorded and demonstrates a high level of competence in terms of language skills, knowledge retention, sound judgement and a calm demeanour under pressure. All of which should be inherent in licensed security guards,” comments Abbey Petkar, managing director of Magenta Security. “Although Magenta are still ardent supporters of business level licensing for the security industry, we welcome this new policy as it will force security providers to ensure their guards are better trained. It will end the situation where below standard individuals receive licences and increase the quality of security services available to the wider market.”