The National Open College Network and its partner the Security Industry Training Organisation have reported a huge surge in examination activity as a result of the Security Industry Authority's new competency requirements.

SITO MD Stefan Hays said: "The security industry is now responding and making a significant investment in training and qualifications. Since January 2005 more than four hundred examination centres have been approved and around four thousand trainers have been qualified or approved to deliver the new training programmes.

"We are now sending out more than 5000 exam papers per week, and receive the equivalent back. A further surge in activity is anticipated following the impending launch of the new SIA compliant CCTV Operator training package."

OCN director John Sanders said: "We recognise the tremendous importance of these qualifications in the licensing process and are totally committed to working with industry to constantly improve efficiency. "

l More delegates (pictured left) have attended the BFPSA fire training courses sponsored by Gardiner Security between January and July this year than in the whole of 2004. The fire alarm training courses on offer include Unit 1 – Fire Detection design, Unit 4 – Installation and Testing, and Unit 5 – Maintenance. Other courses and venues will be introduced according to demand.

Gardiner says the feedback from the courses has been "overwhelmingly good", with many delegates recommending the training to their colleagues.

The company says that many delegates, having completed and passed Unit 1 – Fire Detection design, enrol upon further courses.

l Visual Verification has gained ASET qualifications, which enables it to train CCTV operatives to Security Industry Authority standards. This qualification provides Visual with the ability to train their own staff in-house and also offer the training to external parties. Throughout 2006, courses will take place at Visual's new purpose-built training facility in Timperley, Cheshire.

l TAC UK has devised in-depth plans to bolster the development of UK engineers and tackle the skills shortage. Its Engineer development Programme is aimed at bringing through the UK's finest new engineering talent, and could include industry-standard accreditation.

Source

Security Installer