Hiring security officers can help keep your property safe. They will be able to effectively handle any threats that come about and be an asset in emergency situations. But how can you be sure that security officers hired from a private company are properly trained to appropriately respond to these issues? Here is a description of the training process that security officers go through in order to become certified and work as a security officer. 

Pre-Assignment Training

Before security officers receive assignments, they complete a four-hour pre-assignment training course. This course reviews the introduction and role of a security guard as well as legal powers and limitations. They also learn about response to emergency situations and operating access control. Officers in training will gain skills in communications and public relations as well as proper ethics and conduct.

At the end of this course, each of these topics are tested to ensure that each officer understands the duties of the job. Once the officers pass these test, they can then apply to the Department of State for a Security Guard Registration Card. This card will make the officer eligible for the next step of the process.

On-The-Job Training

Once a security officer is certified, they will receive on-the-job training that is specific to the site to which they are assigned. This training will include emergency procedures, fire protection systems, crowd control, and liability avoidance. The officers will learn prevention and response tactics, as well as proper professionalism and ethics. They will be expected to participate in fire and life safety modules as well as CPR and AED training in order to keep everyone safe.

In addition to protective measures, security officers will also receive raining in effective report writing as well as proper courtroom testimony. These skills will be important if a crime is committed on your property. These training procedures will take place in an 8-hour in-service training source that must be completed within the first 90 days of the assignment.

Annual In-Service Training

After the initial training, security officers are required to complete an 8-hour training course each year in order to keep their knowledge and skills up to date. During these training courses, the security officers will be reminded of proper procedures for safety, fire protection, and emergency response. This training will be a combination of classroom training, hands-on role play, and online distance learning. These annual training courses are essential in maintaining the ability of these security officers.

For more information on our Security Officer Training services, check out our complete list of training services.

USI Security | Security Officer Training and Staffing

For the past 25 years, USI has created safe, secure environments for commercial and government employees and customers by investing in our people, innovation and relationships. As engaged owner-operators, our investment begins with recruitment and screening to ensure we have the right people and continues through our policies and practices that enable USI to properly train and retain the best personnel.

USI is engaged in supporting your security and business by developing customized security solutions that support your objectives while cost-effectively minimizing risk. Clients receive continuous support from a highly responsive team of professionals including owners, management, field supervisors and officers. Our commitment to quality includes field inspections and audits, as well as investments in innovative solutions for continuous training and compliance.