Mandatory Security Training in BC
There are mandatory training requirements in the Province of BC for security service types. In addition to training, those in the security industry also must be licensed. Direct licensing is a significant change in security industry licensing. The Mandatory training and license requirements are governed by the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
The Security Services Act
Under the Security Services Act, individuals working in the security industry are responsible to obtain and hold a security worker license. Prior to September 1, 2008. In addition, with the implementation of the Security Services Act, a number of new sectors of the security industry will be regulated. The new sectors are: commissionaires, armoured car guards, closed circuit television installers (Access Control), in-house security guards, in-house private investigators, bodyguards, and doorpersons at licensed liquor establishments.
For more information on the Security Services Act and the Security Industry and Licensing, you can go the website
Security Businesses and Security Workers that Require Licensing
As of September 1, 2008, the following security service types require licensing (or renewal of existing licenses) under the new Security Services Act.
- Security Guards
- Security Alarm Service, Sales, Monitoring and/or Response
- Armoured Car
- Security Consultant
- Locksmith
The following security service types also require licensing under the Security Services Act. The licensing requirement will be phased in over the next year.
- Commissionaire – effective November 1, 2008
- Armoured Car Guard – effective December 1, 2008
- Closed Circuit Television Installer – effective March 1, 2009
- Electronic Locking Device Installer (Access Control) – effective March 1, 2009
- In-house security guard – licensed as "security guard" service effective September 1, 2009
- In-house private investigator – licensed as "security guard" service effective September 1, 2009
- Bodyguard – licensed as "security guard" service effective November 1, 2009
Doorperson at licensed liquor establishments – licensed as "security guard" service effective November 1, 2009
Mandatory Training Course
Under the Security Services Act, security professionals are required to complete mandatory training prior to eligibility for Provincial licensing. Basic Security Training must be successfully completed through an approved training school. BST course outline.
Training Exemptions
If you have peace office experience (within the last three years) and current certification in use of force (within the last 3 years), you could qualify for a training exemption from taking the mandatory training by filling out an Application for Training Exemption.
Mandatory Training Forms
BST online
The JI offers BST training through the Internet as an online course. If you would like to request further information you can contact us by phone at 604.528.5690 or e-mail.
BST course outline.
More Information
For more information regarding security patrol licensing, contact any security company or the Security Programs Police Technology Division, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, at 250.387.6981.
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