Guardforce Post

In our post on Hiring the Best Security Personnel to Ensure a Zero-Risk Event, we mentioned that training was a key factor to consider when hiring security personnel. But what training do security guards need to have taken? In Hong Kong, security guards and building attendants must have taken a Quality Assurance System (QAS) training course and hold a valid Security Personnel Permit (SPP) in order to be correctly licensed to carry out their duties. So what exactly is QAS training? Well, in today’s post, we will give you everything you need to know about QAS training courses.

Attaining a Security Personnel Permit through QAS training

As of 1 June 1996, all security personnel and building attendants performing paid security duties in Hong Kong are required to hold an SPP issued by the Commissioner of Police. Applications for the permit are made through the Licensing Office of the Hong Kong Police Force and it costs HK$160.

In order to attain an SPP, security personnel and building attendants must attend a QAS training course which meets the criterion of “Proficiency in Security Work”. QAS training is not just limited to these groups though; people such as property management staff and even the general public can also benefit.

How to choose a QAS training course provider

There are a number of QAS training course providers in Hong Kong. But before enrolling, you should ensure the provider you choose is listed as a Security and Guarding Services Industry Authority (SGSIA) Recognized Training Course (Quality Assurance System Compliance) and endorsed by the Security Services Training Board (SSTB) of the Vocational Training Council (VTC).

What is the usual duration and cost of a QAS training course?

QAS training courses are usually around 16 hours conducted over two days and are reasonably priced (under HK$1,000).

What is involved in the training course?

QAS training courses provide participants with all the basic skills required for anyone performing security related tasks. You can expect the course to cover topics such as:

• Basic responsibilities of security guards
• Overview of the law relating to security
• Preparing incident reports
• First aid
• Handing emergency situations
• Basic building management and maintenance

As mentioned earlier, the topics covered in QAS training courses are not just useful for security personnel; the following groups would also find the course beneficial:

• Anyone who manages buildings
• University students building skills for their future career
• Those looking for careers which require a first aid certificate and/or knowledge of how to handle emergency situations
• Those who manage security staff

There is an examination at the end of the course. Once this is passed, trainees are exempt for a period of five years from the mandatory 16-hour basic training course for each new employment.

Learn more about Guardforce Hong Kong’s QAS training course

Guardforce Hong Kong’s regularly runs professionally recognised, 2-day QAS training courses taught by certified trainers and examiners. The course is listed as an SGSIA Recognized Training Course (Quality Assurance System Compliance) and endorsed by the Security Services Training Board (SSTB) of the Vocational Training Council (VTC). It meets the criterion of “Proficiency in Security Work” for issuing an SPP. To find out more, check the training dates and apply for the course click here.