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By London Security College
What Happens During an SIA Audit?
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What Happens During an SIA Audit? Security Officers Working in Retail
If you’re a security officer working in a busy retail environment like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or other supermarkets, chances are you’ll experience an SIA audit at some point.
These random site visits are part of the SIA Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), where independent assessors visit company sites to ensure standards are met. While they’re not there to interrogate or punish you, how you respond can impact your reputation and your company’s compliance rating.
This guide will walk you through real questions you might be asked, along with tips, model answers, and potential consequences of being unprepared.
1. Can I see your SIA badge?
Model Answer:
“Yes, it’s here on display.”
Always keep your badge visible on your chest or upper arm. A badge in your pocket or on your belt is not acceptable.
Tip:
Wearing your badge openly is a legal requirement under the Private Security Industry Act 2001.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
If your badge is not visible, it may count as a breach of licensing conditions. It also reflects poorly on your company during the audit.
2. When did you last receive refresher or site-specific training?
Model Answer:
“I completed my site induction two months ago, and we have refresher training every six months. I also recently did a conflict management refresher.”
Tip:
Keep a mental note of the last time you attended any training. Site inductions, toolbox talks, or online refresher modules all count.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
If you say you haven’t had any training or seem unsure, the auditor may raise questions about the company’s commitment to staff development and compliance.
3. What are your responsibilities on this site?
Model Answer:
“My duties include monitoring customer behaviour, preventing theft, supporting self-checkouts, completing daily occurrence reports, and responding to incidents. I also support the store’s evacuation process if needed.”
Tip:
Be specific. Auditors are looking for officers who are clear about their role and responsibilities.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
If you appear unsure of your duties or give vague answers, it could indicate a lack of training or poor communication from management.
4. What would you do in case of fire or evacuation?
Model Answer:
“I’d follow the store’s evacuation plan outlined in the site manual. I’d assist staff in guiding customers to exits, report to the assembly point, and alert emergency services if required.”
Tip:
You should know where the site’s fire exits, alarms, and assembly points are located.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
Not knowing emergency procedures can be flagged as a health and safety risk during the audit.
5. Do you know where the site assignment instructions are kept?
Model Answer:
“Yes, they’re kept in the security office. I’ve read through them and refer back when needed.”
Tip:
Take a few minutes at the start of each week to review the assignment instructions. It shows professionalism.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
If you don’t know where the manual is or haven’t read it, it may indicate the company has failed to ensure proper briefing.
6. What would you do if you spotted a suspected shoplifter?
Model Answer:
“I’d monitor their behaviour discreetly, report the suspicion to store management, and collect evidence. I’d follow company protocol, ensuring any intervention is lawful, safe, and proportionate.”
Tip:
Don’t mention tackling or detaining unless you’re trained, and the situation legally permits it.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
Overstating your authority could alarm the auditor and raise safeguarding concerns. You should never mention physical confrontation unless necessary.
7. What legal powers do you have as a security officer?
Model Answer:
“I have no more legal powers than a member of the public. I can carry out a citizen’s arrest if a crime is being committed, but only when safe and necessary. My role is to observe and report.”
Tip:
Know the limits of your authority. Many security officers mistakenly believe they have ‘special powers.’
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
Claiming powers you don’t have could be a serious red flag during an audit and could prompt further investigation.
8. Have you received any GDPR or data protection training?
Model Answer:
“Yes, I’ve been trained not to share customer or staff information, and I only record personal details when required for an incident report, following company policy.”
Tip:
Understanding basic data protection is essential even if you don’t use computers. This includes handling printed reports, CCTV footage, and customer information.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
Saying, “I don’t know anything about GDPR,” is a major issue. Mishandling data can result in fines for your employer.
9. Who is your supervisor, and how do you report incidents?
Model Answer:
“My supervisor is [Name]. I report incidents through the daily occurrence book and call the control room if something serious happens.”
Tip:
Know your chain of command. Also, be clear on whether you’re expected to write reports manually or digitally.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
If you say, “I don’t know,” the auditor may flag it as a failure in site supervision and communication.
10. Do you feel supported by your company?
Model Answer:
“Yes, I can contact my manager at any time. I’ve always been supported when I’ve raised any concerns or questions.”
Tip:
Be honest but professional. If you genuinely feel unsupported, raise it with your manager before the audit.
Consequence of Getting It Wrong:
If multiple officers say they feel neglected or ignored, it can heavily impact the company’s ACS score.
An SIA audit is an opportunity to demonstrate professionalism and good practice. You’re not being tested personally — but your responses help the auditor understand how well your company supports you.
A well-prepared officer reflects a well-managed site, which helps your company maintain its status and reputation in the industry.
By knowing your role, understanding basic legal and operational requirements, and staying confident during audits, you’re doing your part to uphold the standards of the UK security industry.
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