A YORK security firm boss has welcomed moves to introduce stricter licences for door staff and security workers despite fears that the increased cost could lead to job losses.

Paul Cody, managing director of Britsafe Security in Clifton Moor, said the Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensing scheme held nothing for professional, modern security workers to fear. He said that the new regulations should "set a standard to work from" not a target to achieve in terms of training, management and safety.

Worries had been raised by some security workers in York that the compulsory new three-year licence, which costs £190 and involves a four-day training course, could lead to job losses.

One company boss has already estimated that as many as five per cent of his staff could quit as a result of the extra cost, leading to agency staff being brought in from outside the area.

The new badge, which all door staff must have by December 13, also involves an identity and criminal background check.

SIA bosses said they want to stamp out the small minority of old-style bouncers whose illegal and sometimes violent behaviour has given the industry a bad name.

The nationally-recognised qualification will train members in areas such as conflict management, emergency procedures and drug awareness.

It is being introduced gradually across the country and by April 2005 it will be illegal to work as a door supervisor anywhere in England and Wales without the licence.

Mr Cody, whose company employs 200 people, said: "We have encouraged a licence savings scheme in the company, so people have been saving a few pounds every month for the past year or so.

"It's a big issue and we have taken a responsible approach. As far as training is concerned we are ahead of requirements. We welcome the changes." SIA chairman Peter Hermitage said: "It's vital people feel safe when they go out to bars, pubs and clubs in York...the new national licence will ensure we have qualified, highly-trained door staff across the country.

"Unfortunately, the industry as a whole has suffered because of a small minority who give it a bad name.

"The new licence will protect the public from untrained and unsuitable operators and will improve the industry's image."

During the past 20 years, the number of door supervisors has grown dramatically, with an estimated 95,000 people working in pubs, bars and clubs in England and Wales.

Updated: 09:59 Thursday, September 09, 2004