February 2025 – As the demand for private security services continues to rise in South Africa, the importance of engaging with accredited and reputable security companies has never been more critical. As it stands, over the past 10 years, the private security industry in South Africa has grown exponentially, with 86% more security companies registered with The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) in 2023 than in 2014.
Recent reports highlight the growing risks associated with dealing with unaccredited security providers, including compromised safety, legal implications, and potential financial losses for businesses and individuals alike.
However, despite the associated risks, the number of unaccredited security companies continues to burgeon. These ‘fly-by-night’ operators often promise to provide premium security services at vastly lower costs; however, in many cases they do not possess the infrastructure nor the trained personnel to deliver on these false assurances. Thus, leaving consumers exposed, and not receiving the timely security response they need when they need it most.
Some of the implications of dealing with unaccredited security companies include:
· Compromised Safety and Security
Unaccredited security companies more often than not, employ insufficiently and inadequately vetted staff, who are simply unable to perform what remains an enormously perilous function. These guards lack the necessary skills to deftly deal with life-and-death emergencies, the ability to respond to threats, or effectively, and more importantly, safely operate security equipment.
· Legal and Compliance Risks
Engaging with unaccredited providers can expose clients to legal liabilities. PSIRA requires all security companies and personnel to be registered and compliant with industry standards. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in fines, penalties, or even criminal charges for clients who knowingly employ unaccredited services.
· Financial Losses
While unaccredited companies may offer lower rates, the potential costs of theft, property damage, or legal action far outweigh the initial ‘savings.’ Additionally, insurance companies may repudiate claims if an unaccredited security company’s services were employed.
· Exploitation
Unregistered and untrained security guards run the risk of being exposed to several challenges, such as financial exploitation through low wages and unpaid Unemployment Insurance Fund and Provident Fund contributions. Critical incidents, such as death threats, injuries, hijacking, assault, and hold-ups, are also part of their work, which can be exacerbated by lack of proper training.
· Undermining the Industry
The proliferation of unaccredited companies undermines the integrity of the private security industry, creating unfair competition for legitimate providers and eroding public confidence in the sector.
Red Alert, as a reputable security company which has been in operation for over 40 years, prides itself on upholding the highest standards of excellence, adhering, if not guiding, industry standards, providing exceptionally well-trained, loyal staff, who are driven to provide top-tier service.
“The safety of our communities and businesses depends on the integrity, professionalism and reliability of private security providers,” exhorts Peter Harvey, CEO of Red Alert. By partnering with reputable, accredited companies, which are beyond reproach, consumers protect not only themselves but also contribute to raising standards across the industry.”
Harvey suggests that before engaging the services of a private security company consumers verify their service provider’s PSIRA accreditation, request reviews and references from past clients, visit the service providers premises and confirm that the company has adequate insurance cover.
“Customers need to ask one question: are they prepared to compromise the safety of themselves, their loved ones, and their treasured possessions for the saving of a what amounts to a family meal out. To put it in the vernacular: ‘goedkoop is duurkoop’” concludes Harvey.