HABC Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry (QCF)
The HABC Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry (QCF) has been developed to meet the learning requirements of the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the security industry regulator in the UK. The qualification provides the necessary skills and knowledge for those looking to apply for an SIA licence and work as a close protection operative.
The qualification is based on the relevant SIA ‘Specifications for Learning and Qualifications for Close Protection Operatives’.
Under the provisions of the Private Security Industry Authority Act 2001 all individuals wishing to work in the private security industry must undertake an industry recognised qualification before applying for a licence.
The objective of the qualification is to prepare learners for employment as a close protection operative (CPO).
Mandatory Course Units
The qualification comprises three mandatory units:
- Unit 1 – Conflict Management within the Private Security Industry
- Unit 2 – Working as a Close Protection Operative
- Unit 3 – Planning, Preparing and Supporting a close Protection Operation
The minimum contact hours for this qualification are 139.5 hours of the required 140 guided learning hours. For full details of delivery requirements, please refer to the specification.
Qualification Progression
Individuals who have achieved this qualification can progress onto any one of a range of qualifications including a Foundation Degree in Protective Security Management.
Those who successfully complete the licence to practice Close Protection as a Close Protection Officer (CPO) can be awarded 16 credits towards the completion of this Foundation Degree and also the Foundation Degree in Crowd and Safety Management and the Certificate in Terrorism Studies.
Qualification Details
The HABC Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry (QCF) has been accredited by the regulators of England and Wales (Ofqual and the Welsh Government) and is part of the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). The qualification is also supported by both the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and Skills for Security (SfS).