Site Operations

How to Handle a Bomb Threat Call at a UK Site (2026 Playbook)

8 min read· Updated 2026-07-07· Free · No signup

Verbatim playbook for handling a bomb threat call using NPSA's PIRA template. This guide gives a straight, evidence-based answer with the practical steps, mistakes and FAQs UK security professionals need in 2026.

Key takeaways

  • Use the NPSA/PIRA bomb threat checklist verbatim.
  • Do not hang up; keep the caller on the line and record.
  • Escalate to police (999) and site senior lead simultaneously.
  • Decide on evacuation or invacuation based on threat specificity.

The moment the call comes in

Stay calm. Take the call somewhere quiet if possible. Record if system allows. Signal a colleague to alert supervision without hanging up.

The NPSA checklist

Use the NPSA Recognised Standard Bomb Threat Checklist. Record every word, background noise, accent, gender, time of call. This is evidence.

Escalation lines

Simultaneous notification to 999 police, site senior lead and (where relevant) the corporate security operations centre.

Evacuation vs invacuation

Specific threat with credible detail: evacuate away from the threat area, not towards it. Generic threat with no specifics: consider invacuation to a safer part of the building.

Post-incident actions

Preserve the call recording, submit witness statement, cooperate with police, review the incident with all staff within 72 hours.

Quick checklist

  • NPSA checklist printed at every switchboard
  • Escalation numbers displayed
  • Rehearsal within last 12 months
  • Post-incident review scheduled

Common mistakes

  • Hanging up to call police.
  • Evacuating towards the described threat location.

Frequently asked questions

Should we evacuate every time?+

No. Specific credible threats warrant evacuation; generic hoaxes may not. Police lead the risk call.

Do I search for the device?+

No. Trained EOD teams do that. Officers do familiar-area sweeps only.

Is this guide free?+

Yes. Every Guard.Academy guide is free, no signup required. Bookmark it and share it with your team.

Does this replace an SIA-approved course?+

No. Guard.Academy is a CPD and study resource. A licensable role in the UK still requires the SIA-approved qualification from an accredited provider.

How current is the information on how to handle a bomb threat call at a uk site (2026 playbook)?+

We refresh guides on a rolling schedule and note the last-updated date at the top. If the SIA or Home Office issue material changes we prioritise those updates first.

Related guides