Door supervisors carrying out personal body searches
Published 27 September 2022
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1. Request
Could you please inform me of:
- the SIA’s position (if there exists a document containing it) on whether it is sometimes permissible for door supervisors when conducting a personal search (as part of the conditions of entry to a venue) to intentionally pat down the searched person’s trousers at the area directly above the genitalia (e.g. grabbing and squeezing the groin of the trousers)
- whether the SIA has ever published guidance on where the border lies between ‘legitimate search’ and things like indecent assault
1.1 Response
I confirm that the SIA holds information that will be of assistance with your query.
The Knowledge and Skill Specification for Door Supervision published by the SIA is a document which is intended to provide a clear specification on the approach that has been agreed by the SIA and key stakeholders in relation to the core learning and resulting qualifications required by SIA licensing. A link to this document can be found below:
Knowledge and Skills Specification: Door Supervision
Session 2 covers searching and for ease of reference I have placed the aim and objectives of this session below:
Aim:
To understand and demonstrate effective search procedures.
Objectives:
By the end of this session learners will be able to:
- understand the different types of searches
- understand a door supervisor’s right of search, including the ‘conditions of entry’ and the importance of obtaining permission to search
- identify different types of searching equipment
- understand the hazards associated with conducting an effective search
- know what precautions to take to protect against adverse effects
- know what action to take should an incident or accident occur
- demonstrate how to search people and their property
- understand the reasons for searching premises
- know what actions to take in the event of a refusal to be searched
- complete search documentation
- know what actions to take when a prohibited or restricted item is found during a search
- understand considerations in searching individuals with diverse needs
If a security operative requires further advice or guidance on searching, the expectation is that the security operative speaks to their line manager or an appropriate contact at their security company.
If an individual is concerned about the manner in which a search has been conducted, the individual should report their concerns to the venue or security company that is providing security to the venue.
I confirm that the SIA has not produced any documents specifically covering whether it is sometimes permissible for door supervisors when conducting a personal search (as part of the conditions of entry to a venue) to intentionally pat down the searched persons trousers at the area directly above the genitalia (e.g. grabbing and squeezing the groin of the trousers) or on where the border lies between ‘legitimate search’ and things like indecent assault.
[Reference: FOI 0357]