Ever since CCTVs have given a cost-effective and easy solution for protecting assets, becoming a CCTV operator has become the first option for people looking to work in the private security industry. But first, you have to complete an SIA CCTV Operator Course before you jump in to apply for CCTV security roles. This course has lately gained popularity due to the recent increase in criminal offences in the retail and corporate sectors.
A CCTV operator training course increases your understanding of emergency procedures, legal obligations, and first aid. Training frequently covers legal problems surrounding surveillance, the operation of CCTV equipment, surveillance strategies, and how to store, retrieve, and delete footage in accordance with the law. But like all security jobs, this involves its own set of challenges both physical and mental.
Read our blog to find out about trials this job entails as well as the step-by-step guide to the whole process of becoming a CCTV operator. Before committing to any job comprehending the requirements and a complete understanding of the necessary skills required for it is crucial.
Job Description of a CCTV Operator:
CCTV operators provide surveillance by monitoring your property to assess and track suspicious activity for timely and efficient intervention in case of a threat. Their main task is to identify and report malicious activities, maintain records and logs of such incidents and then, if need be, liaison with the relevant security staff and law enforcement. They have to ensure that the CCTV systems are always up and running to offer complete and maximum protection for assets.
Required Skills For A CCTV Guard:
It is extremely important to have and cultivate specific skills to work as CCTV operator. An amalgamation of technical, observational and interpersonal skills is essential to become an efficient CCTV operator.
- Knowledge of the latest CCTV security systems: Technical skills are the backbone of a successful career as a CCTV operator. Making sure that the CCTV systems are up to date and having an understanding of how to troubleshoot various systems is extremely important. You need to be familiar with the constantly emerging rapid advancements in video surveillance software and technologies.
- Understanding of site layout: You need to be able to have complete knowledge of the site to be able to tell the exact location of the cameras as well as the blind spots if there are any.
- Visual examination techniques: Paying close attention to detail is also highly valuable in this field. Doing so will ensure that you can track footage to know the differences from the last view. Also keep a look out for harmful materials, equipment, weapons and suspicious people. Do not lose focus or endurance under any circumstances especially during extended monitoring periods.
- Behavorial detection: In order to identify suspicious and threatening activities from a camera footage requires a deep understanding of nonverbal cues. Expert behavior detection includes posture, personal space, eye contact and gestures.
Also Read: 10 Frequently Asked CCTV Operator Interview Questions
- Vigilant documentation and reporting: As a CCTV operator in UK, you need to maintain an inventory of CCTV footage in compliance with the laws and confidentiality protocols. Furthermore, authentic and accurate reporting and other necessary paperwork also falls under the duties and responsibilities of the CCTV operators.
- Quick and calculated decision making: Quick thinking to analyze situations and determine appropriate responses can not only avert danger but also help in minimizing threats and reducing risks.
- Multitasking: The job of a CCTV operator can be very complex for people who find multitasking difficult as they perform various activities simultaneously, from monitoring people through cameras to taking action if a suspicious activity arises.
How to become a CCTV Operator in the UK?
To become a CCTV operator, you must first earn the relevant credentials, go through security checks, qualify for license, and find a suitable employment.
1. Checking Eligibility:
First and foremost, you need to make sure you are eligible for becoming a CCTV operator by meeting the required criteria. You have to be above 18 years of age and must have the legal right to work in the UK.
2. Criminal Record Check:
Next, you need to pass the required security checks to ensure you can work in the security industry. You also need to pass a thorough criminal record check confirming that you have no criminal history which might result in disqualifying you from working as a security personnel.
Also Read: How to avoid SIA licence getting rejected?
3. Get SIA security training:
Then, you need to start training in order to acquire a SIA CCTV operator license. Look for an SIA approved security training provider that can help you prepare for it. To apply for the license all individuals must first complete the relevant training from an approved training provider, resulting in a license-linked qualification certificate. After the CCTV operator course the performance is then evaluated with 2 x multi-choice assessments and 1 x practical assessment.
4. Get Your SIA CCTV Operator License:
Successfully completing the course means you can head over to the SIA website and apply for the license. You have to provide them with the documentation including proof of identity, proof of address, and evidence of completing the SIA-approved training.
Completing all the identity and qualification checks means that you are only one step away from getting the license. After paying the application fee you will get the license within 25 days which will be valid for 3 years.
You will have to renew your license if you wish to continue working in the security industry as working without an SIA license is illegal in UK.
Opportunities for CCTV Security Officers:
Potential Employers:
Once you get the license you can start applying for jobs as a CCTV operator. As a CCTV operator you can find employment in various public settings where security and surveillance are crucial. This includes security companies, retail stores, corporate offices, transport hubs, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, industrial sites, warehouses, construction sites and events.
Potential Earning:
As a CCTV operator, you can earn up to £20,000 – 32,000 per annum.
Career Progression:
In small businesses, job advancement may be difficult which is why operators may seek positions with well-established, large-scale businesses for advancement in their careers. In bigger organisations, an employer may elevate an operator to the position of supervisor over other operators. They might even become the manager of a team of operators. Some alternate career options in this field include police officers, private investigators and criminal intelligence analyst.
Also Read: What is the difference between security guard and door supervisor?
Get in touch with Agile Security Training
If you want to start your career as a CCTV operator then we can help you achieve your professional goals. We are offering the SIA CCTV course with FREE RESITS. Also, we provide you with the mandatory first aid certification FOR FREE which is necessary for working in the security industry. Our highly skilled and SIA approved trainers have assisted more than 500 people. Get in touch and train with the best!
