PSIRA Training Requirements: Minimum Standards for Guards Deployed on Government Contracts — May 2026 Update

By Kabelo Molefe

As a seasoned procurement specialist with Tenders-SA.org, I have witnessed numerous South African Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) struggle to meet the stringent compliance requirements in the Security sector. In Gauteng, one of the most populous provinces in South Africa, the stakes are high, and the consequences of non-compliance can be severe. Our case study today highlights the importance of getting it right.

The Regulatory Framework

The Private Security Industry Regulation Act (PSIRA) is the cornerstone of security legislation in South Africa, governing the registration, training, and conduct of private security companies and their guards. Effective 1 April 2002, PSIRA replaced the Private Security Industry Regulation Act 56 of 2001, with the primary goal of regulating the private security industry. The South African government has made significant strides in implementing robust regulations to combat crime and ensure public safety.

In Gauteng, the regulatory framework is further supported by the Gauteng Provincial Government's commitment to promoting a safe and secure environment. The PPPFA ( Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act), BBBEE Act (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act), CIDB Act (Construction Industry Development Board Act), PFMA (Public Finance Management Act), and MFMA (Municipal Finance Management Act) all play crucial roles in shaping the tendering landscape.

What Security Suppliers in Gauteng Must Have in Place

To operate in the Security sector in Gauteng, companies must adhere to the following minimum standards:

• PSIRA Registration: Companies must register with PSIRA and obtain a valid registration certificate. The registration process entails submitting required documentation, including proof of business registration, proof of identity, and proof of residence. Guards must also register with PSIRA and obtain a valid Grade A, B, or C registration certificate.
• CSD Registration: Companies must register with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COIDA) and obtain a valid COIDA letter of good standing.
• BBBEE Affidavit: Companies must submit a valid BBBEE affidavit to demonstrate their compliance with BBBEE requirements.
• SARS TCS Registration: Companies must register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and obtain a valid Tax Compliance Status (TCS) certificate.
• COIDA Letter of Good Standing: Companies must submit a valid COIDA letter of good standing to demonstrate their compliance with COIDA requirements.

Step-by-Step Compliance Approach

To ensure compliance with PSIRA training requirements, follow these steps:

1. Verify PSIRA certificates: Before submitting a tender, verify that PSIRA certificates for the company and all deployed guards are current. A single expired guard certificate can void the entire contract.
2. Obtain required registrations: Register with PSIRA, CSD, and SARS, and obtain valid registration certificates.
3. Submit required documentation: Submit required documentation, including proof of business registration, proof of identity, and proof of residence.
4. Obtain COIDA letter of good standing: Obtain a valid COIDA letter of good standing to demonstrate compliance with COIDA requirements.
5. Submit BBBEE affidavit: Submit a valid BBBEE affidavit to demonstrate compliance with BBBEE requirements.

The Most Common Compliance Failures

The most common compliance failures in the Security sector include:

• Incomplete or inaccurate SBD forms
• Failure to submit required documentation, including proof of business registration, proof of identity, and proof of residence
• Expired PSIRA certificates
• Failure to attend compulsory briefing sessions

2026 Context: What Security Suppliers Should Focus On

In 2026, the South African government is prioritizing the development of a more robust security infrastructure to combat crime and ensure public safety. Security suppliers in Gauteng should focus on:

• Enhancing their PSIRA registration and training standards
• Improving their BBBEE compliance
• Ensuring their CSD registration is up-to-date

How Tenders-SA.org Helps

At Tenders-SA.org, we understand the complexities of the tendering process in the Security sector. Our platform provides AI-matched Security opportunities aligned to your compliance profile, ensuring you only receive tenders that meet your specific needs. We also offer a Company Profile Builder, which captures your PSIRA registration (company and all guards), making it easier to submit tenders and track your compliance status.

Don't let non-compliance hold you back. Browse Security tenders and take the first step towards success with Tenders-SA.org.

ICT & Smart City Analyst specializing in digital transformation and security technology for South African municipalities.