Security personnel encounter real-life terrorism scenarios in Atik’s Windsor training exercise.

SIA-licensed security personnel at Atik, Windsor participated in a series of exercises focused on terror response strategies. Collaborating with the SIA-approved contractor Scope Security Ltd, the team engaged in three scenarios involving a mass casualty knife attack, a suspicious package, and a lockdown due to an external attack. These activities serve as a practical application of the ACT Security e-learning module, a necessary counter-terrorism training requirement for security staff.

Operation Sentry is an initiative from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This program was executed in cooperation with Thames Valley Police, Thames Valley Police cadets, the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, licensing officers from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Eton, and volunteers from the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (Princess Royal’s Volunteer Corps) – FANY (PRVC).

These scenarios were conducted in a realistic nightclub environment, with actors simulating incidents on the dancefloor. Following each ‘incident,’ security operatives received a debriefing from specialized teams from counter-terrorism and various emergency services.

John Sandlin, Senior Manager for Compliance and Inspections at the SIA, commented:

The lifelike scenarios at Atik, Windsor nightclub provided an outstanding opportunity for security operatives to prepare for real-life challenges. The staged terror incidents allowed operatives to confront difficult situations in a controlled environment, effectively applying their training. Immediate debriefing followed from counter-terror and emergency service specialists.

If any of these operatives find themselves as first responders during an incident, these exercises could potentially save lives.

This simulated mass casualty event enhances teamwork among security professionals, empowering them to safeguard as many individuals as possible and attend to victims. We extend our gratitude to the management of Atik, Windsor for hosting the Windsor edition of Exercise Operation Sentry.

This exercise builds upon previous drills conducted in various parts of the UK. We share immediate insights and observations from Operation Sentry exercises with the security providers, operatives, and venues involved as the event unfolds.

Additional information:

• The Security Industry Authority is responsible for regulating the private security sector in the United Kingdom, reporting directly to the Home Secretary in accordance with the Private Security Industry Act 2001. The SIA’s primary responsibilities include the mandatory licensing of individuals participating in designated activities and overseeing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme.
• For further details about the Security Industry Authority or to subscribe to email updates, please visit: www.gov.uk/sia. The SIA is also present on LinkedIn, Facebook (Security Industry Authority), and Twitter (@SIAuk).