Security Industry Regulatory Department
By ASP Kamlesh Ramchand

Securing Singapore
The Security Industry Regulatory Department (SIRD) effectively regulates the private security industry to enhance its standards, helping them mature into key agents of security for our city state.

We aim to transform the private security industry into a well-networked, progressive, collaborative and yet highly competitive industry that adheres to well-established and uniform standards.

SIRD works closely with security practitioners and key stakeholders so that the industry will be an effective and trusted partner in Singapore’s security network, taking on greater security responsibilities and providing a high level of assurance.

Ensuring Optimum Performance

The Auxiliary Police Forces’ (APF) operational structures, systems and compliance with standards are subject to a rigorous audit and inspection regime. Annual audits of the APFs have observed significant improvements in key areas such as contingency readiness, ground supervision and operational knowledge of Auxiliary Police Officers (APOs).

Similarly, for the unarmed security industry, an audit and inspection system based on six key operational pillars was incorporated into the grading system for security guard agencies. Together with ad-hoc ground checks, this has resulted in a greater level of compliance with legislative requirements.

Assessing Security Guard Agencies

For the first time, SIRD publicised the results of the grading exercise in 2007, providing buyers with an assessment of security guard agencies. The grading exercise saw an increased participation and higher standards with more agencies achieving ‘A’ and ‘B’ grades.

Upgrading Capabilities within the Security Industry

The Security Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ), developed in consultation with the Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) and the security industry, provided a comprehensive qualification framework for occupational standards in the security industry.

The Security WSQ was launched by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Wong Kan Seng in July 2007. This career-based qualification system will benefit both security officers and the industry in general. It also provides an incentive for security officers to upgrade their professional competencies by attaining higher professional recognition and thereby earning better wages.

A 99% Service Level

The incorporation of the Total Quality Management and Six Sigma mechanisms into the licensing system led to SIRD achieving a 99% service level for processing applications and responding to correspondence within five working days. This achievement was only made possible by re-engineered processes and increased automation – all resulting in enhanced speed and efficiency in licensing.

A new Security Services Gateway (SSG) will be rolled out to replace the existing PLUS system. This change is to support the legislative changes under the new Private Security Industry Act (PSIA), further enhancing the efficiency of the licensing regime.

Recognition for Our Efforts

In April 2008, SIRD was presented with the Plaque of Commendation by the Secretary-General of the National Trade Union Congress (NTUC), Mr Lim Swee Say, at the NTUC Awards Dinner that was held at Suntec Convention Centre. This award was in appreciation of SIRD’s efforts in upgrading the image and career progression of the private security industry.

The Landscape for FY 2008

SIRD plans to further enhance the private security industry as one with a high level of operational competency and professionalism to meet the demands of a heightened security environment and address the needs of frontline defence against security and crime.

Working in close collaboration with our partners, we will continue to develop effective strategic initiatives to raise the standards and professionalism of the private security industry.

Efforts will also be focused on making the new PSIA operational, so as to put in place an enhanced regulatory regime.