Whether you are looking for a personal bodyguard, or a permanent security guarding solution for your business or residential complex, there are several compliance requirements which private security companies need to adhere to to legally trade. Here we look at a breakdown of the requirements listed and their importance in South Africa’s security guard industry.
Why is it important to be compliant with the Statutory requirements?
Currently, there are approximately 2.7 million security officers registered with PSIRA, the regulatory authorisation for the private sector, with over 580 000 active employees across the country, which accounts for a large workforce of men and women who service businesses and communities.
These individuals are employed by private security companies to provide personal bodyguard, armed and unarmed services, assisting law enforcement, and actively working to reduce criminal activity. And by adhering to the requirements laid out by Psira and the Bargaining council of South Africa, these workers can earn a fair wage, and receive contributions to their provident fund, medical insurance and more.
These basic rights are vital, allowing workers to build career opportunities and support their families.
What are the basic compliance requirements which Private Security Companies need to provide?
Company Registration and Financial Standing:
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- Private Security Companies are required to be registered entities within South Africa
- Companies need to maintain good standing with the South African Revenue Service (SARS)This ensures financial responsibility and discourages money laundering.
- Registration with the Central Supplier Database allows private security companies bid on government security guarding contracts.
Security Industry Regulation:
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- Registration with Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA)is vital as it proves your company is registered and authorized to operate as a security service provider. And maintaining good standing demonstrates your company is compliant with PSIRA regulations and has no outstanding issues.
- Firearm certificate: If your security services involve armed guards, a valid firearm certificate is mandatory.
Employee Qualifications and Protections:
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- Registration with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA), ensures that employees receive proper compensation in case of injury or illness on the job.
- All employees of the private security industry are required to be registered with PSIRA.
- Proof of Registration with PSSPF (Private Security Sector Provident Fund): Shows your company is registered with the PSSPF, providing retirement benefits for security officers.
How can we help you?
These compliance measures ensure the security industry in South Africa operates professionally, ethically, and effectively. They protect clients, personal bodyguards, security officers, and the public by:
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- Guaranteeing qualified service providers: Registration with PSIRA ensures companies understand security regulations and best practices.
- Ensuring fair treatment of employees: Proper registration with PSSPF and COIDA protects security officers’ rights and benefits.
- Promoting financial responsibility: Tax compliance and insurance safeguards against financial risks.
- Maintaining public safety: Proper training, licensing, and background checks for security personnel minimize risks.
- Building trust and reputation: Compliance with regulations demonstrates our commitment to professionalism.
By adhering to these requirements, Princeton Protections continues to build trust with clients, operate legally, and provide a valuable service that contributes to public safety in South Africa.
If you are looking for private security services, Learn more about our Guarding services or Armed Response Offering, today.