Edexcel targets CCTV and close protection officers

Joining the Edexcel suite of QUALIFICATIONS developed in unison with regulation of security operatives by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) are all-new qualifications for close protection officers and contracted CCTV operators involved in public space surveillance monitoring projects.

The BTEC Award in CCTV Operations (Public Space Surveillance) and the BTEC Certificate in Close Protection Operations have both been accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA), with Edexcel having received ‘endorsed awarding body’ status from the SIA.

When licensing becomes mandatory on 20 March 2006, all close protection and CCTV operatives will need a licence to work. Before any given individual can apply for a licence they need to have undertaken training and passed the course test and assessment.

The award for close protection operatives requires around four weeks’ training. Subjects covered include: legislation, assessing risks and threats, dealing with incidents and dilemmas and reconnaissance work, as well as skills in teamwork and conflict resolution.

The award for CCTV staff entails four days’ instruction, with opportunities for practical skills development in the use and operation of cameras and communication equipment.

Theory covered encompasses the legal framework and evidential requirements within which observations and recordings are undertaken, emergency scenarios in the Control Room and how to provide admissible evidence in Court.