Security officers play a critical role in protecting people, property and reputation. One of the most sensitive responsibilities on any site is conducting searches. Done correctly, searches prevent theft, deter criminal activity and maintain safety. Done incorrectly, they create legal risk, reputational damage and potential breaches of individual rights.
Craig Moore, Operations Coordinator at Circle UK Group, outlined the correct legal framework, procedures and professional standards for conducting searches lawfully and ethically on site. This article summarises the key guidance every security professional must understand. Watch the Webinar Now👇
All search procedures must operate within UK law and recognised industry standards. Security officers do not have police powers. Every search must therefore be lawful, justified and consent-based.
Searches are conducted in line with:
These frameworks ensure searches are carried out safely, consistently and without discrimination.
The core principle is simple:
No consent. No search.
A search is permitted when it is clearly established as a condition of entry and communicated properly.
This typically applies when:
Consent must always be freely given. It must not be obtained through pressure, intimidation or coercion.
A professional example of correct wording would be:
“Good afternoon. As a condition of entry, we conduct bag searches. Do you consent to a search?”
If consent is refused, entry may be denied. However, force must never be used to compel a search.
Searches are strictly prohibited if:
Security officers must never conduct strip searches or touch intimate areas under any circumstances.
If policy requires two officers, this must be followed. If working alone, CCTV coverage should be in place as a minimum safeguard.
Professional search conduct is built on clear behavioural standards:
Remain polite and calm at all times.
Give clear directions.
Avoid physical contact unless explicit consent has been given.
Never coerce or pressure an individual.
Use self-search methods where possible.
Self-searching reduces risk, protects both parties and aligns with SIA training standards. This is especially important in sensitive situations, such as when dealing with pregnant individuals or vulnerable persons.
Manners cost nothing. Professionalism protects everyone.
Searches are conducted to detect restricted, prohibited or illegal items as defined by site policy.
These may include:
Officers must follow the specific conditions of entry relevant to their site.
Suspicion should be developed using the “Who, What, Where, When, Why and How” method. This structured approach ensures decisions are intelligence-led rather than based on profiling.
There are three primary types of searches conducted on security sites:
Consent must always be obtained.
Where operationally possible, same-gender searches should be conducted.
Minimal intrusion must be applied.
No strip searches.
No force.
The environment must be safe and respectful at all times.
The individual must open the bag themselves.
Officers should avoid placing hands inside unless necessary and permitted.
Care must be taken to avoid damaging personal property.
Encouraging self-search reduces both safety risk and potential claims.
Vehicle searches follow the same consent-based principles. Consent must be obtained for each section of the vehicle.
A practical structure for vehicle searches is the acronym IBOBU:
Officers should request that drivers open compartments themselves. Officers must never enter a vehicle without permission and must never search a moving vehicle.
Vehicle searches are typically conducted when required under site policy, when access to controlled areas is requested, or where reasonable suspicion has been established.
If a person refuses a search:
Remain calm and professional.
Explain the site policy clearly.
Offer them the opportunity to leave.
Do not argue.
If refusal escalates into aggression, or if illegal items are suspected, contact the Control Room or management immediately.
Escalation is appropriate where:
Professional conduct during refusal protects both the officer and the organisation.
Under British Standard 7499 and SIA best practice, every search must be recorded.
Whether via CCTV, written log or digital reporting system, documentation must include:
Reports must include:
All records must be factual, clear and free from opinion. They must be GDPR compliant and stored securely.
Accurate reporting protects the officer, the client and the company.
Searches must never be based on profiling.
Officers must not discriminate based on:
The same standards must apply to everyone, regardless of position or authority. Whether an individual is a cleaner or a CEO, the procedure remains identical.
Professional conduct reflects directly on the SIA licence holder and the wider security industry. Officers represent both their employer and the regulated sector as a whole.
Searches must always be consent-based.
No consent means no search.
Refusal may result in denied entry.
Force must never be used.
Professionalism is non-negotiable.
Everything must be recorded accurately.
Assignment Instructions must always be followed.
Safe, lawful and ethical searching is not optional. It is a legal and professional obligation.
If you would like guidance on implementing compliant search procedures, updating site Assignment Instructions, or improving officer training standards, our team can help.