Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Commissionaires and the new Security Services Act:
1. Who needs to be licensed?
All commissionaires employed in security work must have a licence. Those employed as RCMP Guards, municipal by-law and municipal jails do not require a licence. However if those commissionaires also want to work in any security jobs within the Division they must have a licence. Everyone on the A List (spares) will require a security licence in order to be assigned to any site. Effective September 1, 2008, all new commissionaires will be licensed as a condition of enrolment.
2. Why do I need a security license?
Commissionaires in BC have been exempt from the licensing requirement up to
September 1, 2008. Effective that date, all security workers in the Province of BC, including alarm installers, locksmiths, armoured car guards, loss prevention officers, ‘bouncers’ and commissionaires have been included in the new BC Security Services Act. Because commissionaires are already trained and meet the requirements we are the first group to be processed effective November 1, followed by armoured car guards. At that point No one can work in security without a Security Worker’s License.
3. Why is this being required now – November 01?
When the Province approved the Regulations they assumed that it would be easy for Commissionaires to comply as we are already fully compliant; however, they did not take into account the scope of our operations. This point was argued, but because the date of November 1 is in the Regulations, we must comply.
4. Why do we have to pay $120 per year and $60 per year for a renewal?
Those are the rates set by the Solicitor-General’s Branch. We argued that it was too much for the industry, but the fact remains the rest of the security industry has been paying these fees for some time. We also argued to get experienced commissionaires ‘grandfathered’; however, as we are not the only ones being included in the new legislation NO exceptions were made.
5. What do I do if I already have a security license?
You will personally need to renew your license and pay the $60 renewal fee to the Province. We require that you forward a copy of your license to us for our records.
6. Can I apply for my security license for more than one year?
Yes! Complete the Wage Assignment Form included in your application package indicating 1 to 3 years and return it with your application forms.
7. Why isn't the Division paying for this?
This is a personal license similar to a driver’s license. It can be used by you to work for any company. Only those who work in security need the license and normally the application and renewal is between the individual and the Province. We are deeply involved this time because of the impact on both you and our business.
As already announced we will be repaying the licence fees based on the number of hours worked up to the anniversary date of your licence.
8. I am only working part-time – why can’t I pay a reduced fee?
Unfortunately, there is only a one fee structure set by the Province.
9. What if I am capable and skilled to perform more than security work, should I check off more boxes on the application form?
Only complete the form for work that you are currently hired to perform or may perform. In most cases that will be as a Security Guard and Alarm Response. This will allow some flexibility in employment. This can be changed after the licence has been issued.
10. After I have completed the application process, when will I get my licence?
We will be submitting the license applications to the Province in batches. We have been assured that they will be processed in 5 business days, although it will likely take more time. The licenses will be returned to the Division Office where we will place a copy on your file and then deliver the security license to you.
11. Do I have to keep my licence on my person at al times?
You MUST have your licence in your possession at all times while working. As an organization that has just been brought under the legislative umbrella, we can expect attention from the inspection arm of the Registrar of Security Services. As mentioned previously, consider this similar to a driver’s license that you must have with you at all times.
12. What is the penalty if I don’t have a security licence?
Both you and the Division may be fined for non compliance. The penalties are stiff. For a first offense, a commissionaire could be fined for up to $5,000 and the Division fined up to $50,000.
13. I have a security licence but it is with another company. What do I do?
Renew your licence when it expires. This time there will not be a requirement to submit it through the company. If your licence is currently held by the Province then please advise your supervisor ASAP.
14. If I don’t have BST 1 & 2 will I have to take training?
There should be no one in this situation, but if this does apply to you, please contact the Director HR at your first opportunity.
15. How will I know when I need to renew my licence? Will the Division assist me again in paying for the renewal?
The Division office will remind you at least six weeks in advance and the Province will send out a reminder one month in advance. In the future, the Province will only deal with the individual. It will be your responsibility to renew your security licence and pay the renewal fee. You will be required to provide a copy of your renewal licence to us to confirm that you are in compliance.
16. I was planning on leaving or retiring within the next year. How does this affect me?
If this is your situation, please contact your management team.
17. What about uniforms?
We are working with our suppliers and the Province regarding our new uniform requirements; more information to follow.