Close Protection

The role of a Close Protection Operative is to ensure the safety and maintain the privacy of their client (the "principal") at all times; whilst facilitating their daily routine. They have a duty to keep that person comfortable and safe in carrying out their own role and responsibilities, sometimes in a very volatile environment.

This duty can often extend to the principal’s colleagues and family. It may also be in fast paced, challenging environments. The BSIA has stringent membership criteria, guaranteeing that BSIA members are the very best of the British security industry. The Association's Close Protection Section represents the UK’s most capable Close Protection providers.

We are the only trade association that requires its members to be independently inspected to the quality standard ISO 9001:2000 with a UKAS accredited certification body. This provides independent assurance that a company is run professionally and also covers relevant British and European standards such as BSI 8507 – Code of Practice for Close Protection Services within the UK.

London 2012

If you require Close Protection during London 2012, it is important to note that only individuals licensed by the UK Security Industry Authority (SIA) may perform Close Protection duties in the UK. The SIA routinely conducts checks to ensure that this requirement is complied with. We believe that this compliance checking will be stepped up during London 2012.

Our members' staff have a good working knowledge of London’s geography, its culture and the impact of the events taking place. They can help you with all aspects of planning to ensure that your time at the Games goes smoothly.

The Security Industry Authority licence for close protection - which all of our members possess - ensures that all operators have:

• Undergone a criminal records check
• Undertaken a course of 150 hours guided and practical learning
• Hold a recognised First Aid qualification

The BSIA is operating a dedicated Close Protection Co-ordination Unit to put customers in touch with reputable Close Protection suppliers. The Close Protection Co-ordination Unit operates from 9am – 5pm (BST) Monday – Friday and can be reached by telephone or email as follows: 

+44 (0) 207 516 1258
2012cpunit@bsia.co.uk

View case studies for the Close Protection sector

View a list of the member companies operating in the Close Protection sector

View the latest Close Protection sector publications