Security Industry Regulatory Department

KEY HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN FY 2006

The Security Industry Regulatory Department (SIRD) is strategically positioned as the Singapore Police Force’s (SPF) link with the private security industry, which comprises almost 40,000 trained security personnel, security training institutions, consultants and security technology providers. As regulator, a delicate balance must be struck between the commercial interests of security providers and rising public expectations for a professional and competent security industry in a highly volatile environment.

A Transparent Regulatory System

SIRD’s efforts in 2006 were largely focused on administering a clear, transparent and stable regulatory system. It served to check abuses, identify and promulgate standards of professional practice opportunities, and facilitate the growth of the private security industry. In designing its regulatory focus, SIRD adopted an outcome-based approach focusing on areas of high sensitivity and high operational consequences. By ensuring regulations are not overbearing or restrictive, and by managing risks rather than over-regulating, SIRD has strived to sharpen its regulatory focus and keep business costs low.

Timely and Accessible Service

SIRD has also sought to provide timely, efficient and accessible services to its stakeholders. Systems and processes have been reengineered to cut red tape and processing time. For instance, SIRD’s license administration has shifted from a complian cecentred process to one based on risk assessment and evaluation to facilitate a pro-business environment.

Effective Communication

By developing platforms to effectively communicate with stakeholders, SIRD is poised to remain responsive to industry perspectives as well as dynamic changes in the operating environment. SIRD was thus able to refine its regulatory operations to facilitate industry growth and encourage healthy business practices. A network approach to regulation has contributed to a higher level of professionalism and encouraged participation by security service providers in shaping the regulatory environment.

Implementation of Grading System

To ensure standards and motivate security practitioners to push for operational excellence in a highly competitive commercial environment, a grading system was implemented. The grading system is designed to differentiate security service providers and raise buyer awareness in both the private and public sectors.

Training of Security Providers

The training and operational development of security providers has not been forgotten. This has been raised through the development of an operationally relevant training curriculum and through the regular dissemination of security trends and market information. Minimum training requirements augmented with a rank and career progression framework have also been mandated to promote the career qualifications of security practitioners.

PLANS FOR FY 2007

Overall, SIRD has been successful in shaping perceptions and building confidence in the capability of the industry and its practitioners. However, the threats and destabilising influences to the security environment remain. The industry’s professionalism and operational resolve is destined to be tested. While reducing cases of abuse and malpractice in the industry, SIRD will continue to support operational and security awareness and readiness at all levels and to develop and promote the role of private security in Singapore.

This is all the more important as the security industry remains poised for growth as Singapore moves towards the development of integrated resorts and the commissioning of a third airport terminal.