Effects of Covid-19 see speedy growth of SA’s Private Security Industry

Private Security in South Africa is a growing sector, placing it as one of the biggest in the world. Our sector currently holds more than 9 000 registered companies, an estimated 1.5 million qualified guards, and around 450 000 registered active private security guards. Many of these individuals also tend to make up the combined South African police and army.

The private security industry in South Africa provides monitoring, guarding, armed reaction, escorting, investigating and other security-related services to private individuals and companies across the country. All Private Security Mandates are driven by the Private Security Industry Regulation Act 56 of 2001.

Regulating SA’s Private Security Sector The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) was appointed in 2002, based on Section 2 of the Private Security Industry Regulation Act (Act No 56 of 2001). The strategic direction of this Authority is derived from the Act and the regulations issued in terms of the Act.

This industry is no longer for security officers only The Authority’s mission is to effectively protect the constitutional rights of all people to life, safety and dignity through the effective promotion and management of the private security industry. It’s primary goals include: • Regulating the private security industry. • Exercising effective control over the practice of the occupation of security service providers in the public and national interest. • Promoting a legitimate private security industry which acts in terms of the principles contained in the Constitution and other applicable law. • Stimulating a private security industry that is transparent, professional, accountable, equal and accessible. • Encouraging equal opportunity employment practices in the sector.