Security Training

Guarding Skills (4N1118)


The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the an in-depth knowledge of Guarding Skills to include: search procedures, report writing and other fundamental retail/industrial guarding skills.

To apply for a Guarding Skills Licence with the Private Security Authority (PSA), applicants must complete the QQI Level 4 Guarding Skills training course.


NCU Training is an Approved Training Provider of the Private Security Authority (PSA).



"I would have no hesitation in recommending NCU to carry out any security training in the future" - Andy Farrell
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Learning Outcomes


Learners will be able to:

  1. 1 Explain the legislation, regulations and standards governing the provision of a private security service to include reference to the Private Security Services legislation, relevant national and international standards and the role of the Private Security Authority
  2. Explain the role of private security services in relation to other agencies which deal with crime and loss prevention
  3. Distinguish between legal codes and practices relating to the role of the security officer to include - criminal and civil law, rights of the individual, health and safety legislation, equality legislation and security industry licensing requirements and relevant national and international standards
  4. Explain the status of representatives of authorised bodies entering premises to include a member of An Garda Siochana, fire officer, health and safety inspector, representative of the security industry regulatory body
  5. Contrast the role and responsibilities of a security officer employed directly by a client in-house and the provision of a contract security service
  6. State the principal points of relevant national labour regulations
  7. Explain a range of personal and professional qualities required of a security officer
  8. Indicate relevant health and safety requirements, including dealing with fire, that impact on the duties and responsibilities of the security officer
  9. Explain what is meant by loss and fraud prevention
  10. Explain what is meant by reasonable and necessary force
  11. Outline appropriate on-site cash handling procedures
  12. Carry out the duties and procedures required of a security officer
  13. Respond appropriately to security incidents and emergencies
  14. Use a variety of supporting security tools and equipment
  15. Demonstrate appropriate procedures for dealing with a suspect
  16. Demonstrate a range of procedures for loss prevention and identification
  17. Demonstrate procedures for the preservation of a scene of crime, the recording of incidents and liaison with appropriate agencies and organisations
  18. Use appropriate communications skills and a range of customer service techniques in a variety of situations in the workplace

Obtaining a security skills Guarding qualification will enable you to work in the following establishment types:
  1. Shopping centres
  2. Hospitals
  3. Non-licenced premises
  4. Constructions sites
  5. Airports
  6. Government buildings

Programme details

  • Award Title: Guarding Skills (4N1118)

  • Duration: Duration of 100 hours, 50 hours Directed learning, 50 Hours self directed.

  • Entry requirements: QQI level 3 certificate or equivalent and/or relevant life and work experiences

  • Award Type: Minor Award

  • Framework Level: NFQ Level 4

  • Awarding Body: QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland)

  • Assessment:
    1. Assignment
    2. Examination

  • Protection for Learners:
    As a part of best practice to safeguard the interests of learners enrolled for programmes exceeding three months and in line with the regulatory/statutory requirements of QQI and the ‘Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012’.
    NCU Training has arranged comprehensive cover by a Learner Protection Policy, Number
    LPI-00098-PHIS with O'Driscoll O'Neil underwritten by Hiscox Insurance Company Limited, June 2018.
    The purpose of this policy is to ensure that learners are protected in the event of the unexpected cessation of any training programme in NCU Training provided, and/or organised and/or sub-contracted training.
    Evidence to confirm implementation of the NCU Training Protection for Learners Policy includes:

    1. A statement of arrangements for Protection for Learners in programme information for relevant programmes of over three months’ duration.
    2. Fee refund documentation, where it applies.
    3. Learner transfer documentation, in the event of the unexpected cessation of programmes

  • Complaints Procedure:
    It is your right as a client of our service to make a complaint if you feel your experience with us falls short of what you expected. We want the process to be easy, effective and fair. If you would like to make a complaint, you can either call us on 01-8479463 or email us directly at complaints@ncultd.ie

Price and next starting date.

  • Price:€199 (Excluding Certification Fee)
  • Funding: A range of training courses are available with NCU Training which are free to unemployed persons. The first step is to contact your local Employment Services Office to register and apply for training.
  • View Upcoming Courses for next starting date

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