Certification of Security Personnel in Airports

Ensuring the safety and security of passengers is vital for the aviation industry and for the country as a whole. For this reason, training is the cornerstone for achieving success in the services we provide at Metropolis Seguridad. In this article, we will explore the challenge involved in certifying security personnel in this environment, and how Facility Services play a fundamental role in this process.

THE CHALLENGE OF CERTIFYING SECURITY PERSONNEL

The National Civil Aviation Security Programme (PNS) sets out the organisation, methods, and procedures required to ensure the protection of passengers, crews, the public, ground staff, aircraft, airports, and their facilities against acts of unlawful interference. It also specifies the mandatory training required for security teams working in airport settings, detailing the types of training modules according to the roles performed by security guards at airports themselves.

As of 20 October 2020, AESA management approved the new procedure for C1, C2, C3a and C3b Certification–Recertification, whereby all security guards must sit exams conducted by AESA to obtain the corresponding certification.

• C1 Certification: airport security. Certificate valid for 5 years.
• C2 Certification: inspection using X-ray equipment of hand luggage, carried items, hold luggage, onboard provisions, and supplies. Certificate valid for 3 years. A refresher course using a scanner simulator specific to this field must be taken every six months.
• C3a Certification: inspection of cargo and mail. Certificate valid for 5 years.
• C3b Certification: inspection of cargo and mail using X-ray equipment. Certificate valid for 3 years. A refresher course using a scanner simulator specific to this field must be taken every six months.

Certification also involves meeting a series of specific requirements and standards. Security personnel must be familiar with the current regulations and be ready to apply them in critical situations. Constant monitoring of legislation and adapting to changes and new threats are essential to keep the certification up to date. This requires resources and efficient management of Facility Services to ensure that training takes place smoothly.

THE ROLE OF FACILITY SERVICES COMPANIES

The certification of security personnel in Spanish airports is a major challenge that involves knowledge of current laws, standards, and legislation. In this, service companies are indispensable allies. They provide the facilities and resources needed for the training and ongoing development of security personnel. Collaboration between security staff, trainers and Facility Services is crucial to ensure that the highest standards of safety and protection for people in the airport environment are maintained.

Ultimately, the certification of security personnel involved in civil aviation security processes is not the sole responsibility of the authority. The entire industry must proactively participate to achieve it as soon as possible, taking into account the quality, efficiency and transparency standards necessary to ensure that staff competencies and skills are appropriate for the role.

Armonia, experts in Facility Solutions, was founded with the mission to offer a human, professional, and high-quality service to the most demanding clients through a range of services linked to the workplace and the maintenance of properties and buildings: Corporate Reception, Support Staff & Access Control, Cleaning & Logistics, Security & Protection and Special Employment Centre.