The training of physical security officers is often neglected with the latest developments in technology. Some security agencies consider the exercise unnecessary since they think the cost of training outweighs its benefits. But these agencies should reconsider any decision to do away with training since training offers a lot more benefits than they think.
Additionally, trained security officers allow security companies to increase their rates and reduce issues in the jobs. It also increases efficiency in their jobs that can please clients. Investing in training can also help reduce employee turnover.
When these agencies decide to provide training for their security officers, they can focus on several aspects of the security industry.
Regulatory Compliance
The first thing that security agencies should focus on is compliance with state requirements. Several states require a license before a person can work as a security officer. Security agencies should also check for updates or new laws that can affect the way they operate. They should also check with the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services since they set the standard on the type of training programs security officers should go through.
To ensure security officers are well-versed in using firearms, it might be necessary for businesses to train them in facilities with indoor shooting range systems. These facilities typically facilitate the evaluation of the skills of security officers in weapons handling and accuracy. But the security companies should make sure that these facilities meet the requirements of state regulatory authorities to avoid any issues in the future.
Controlling Access into a Business
After ensuring they comply with all the requirements, security agencies should focus on training their security professionals on controlling access into a business they are guarding. Even though the crime rate has gone down during the pandemic, security professionals should continue to control access points in businesses. When these access points are not controlled, burglaries might increase since anyone can enter the offices.
While developments in technology have enhanced access control systems, security professionals should know how to use them. Due to this, security agencies should work with the clients so they can provide the security professionals with suitable training in using these access control systems. It also allows them to know the specific needs of its clients.
Remote Video Surveillance
The use of remote video surveillance technologies has become popular in recent years. Remote video surveillance uses IP cameras that allow security professionals to monitor an office building from a remote location. These cameras use an internet connection. If the client is a government agency, the IP cameras should be NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act) compliant, or its components should come from companies approved by the government.
Aside from remote video surveillance, security agencies should also ensure their security professionals receive training in managing global security operations centers (GSOCs). Managing GSOCs takes a lot of experience since it requires the security professional to answer regular and emergency calls, assist the clients, allocate resources, and monitor alarms and video equipment. So, security professionals working in a GSOC should be well-educated and well-trained to handle all of these things.
Cybersecurity Training
While security professionals focus mainly on the physical security of their client’s property, it is also important for them to receive cybersecurity training. As the world becomes increasingly digital, security professionals should know what they should and should not do while securing their clients’ facilities.
They should understand malware and phishing attacks. Recognizing these attacks allows them to avoid them, especially when accessing the security system using smartphones and computers. They can also take steps to prevent these attacks by reporting them to the appropriate authorities.
This makes it essential for security agencies to provide suitable cybersecurity training so they can avoid costly mistakes.
Security Officer Management Software
With the developments in technology, it is practical for security agencies to use security officer management software. The software ensures that all security professionals receive the necessary training and know how to handle different security issues. The software integrates different features to help them in their jobs. The features that come with the software include incident reporting.
Incident Management
Security professionals should receive training in managing incidents to ensure they can handle these incidents effectively. They should also learn to be proactive and recognize signs of possible issues. Once they recognize these issues, the security professionals should stop them before they happen. With this, security agencies should work with their clients in creating standard operating procedures to guide security professionals in dealing with these incidents.
While training security professionals might require an initial investment, security agencies can look forward to the rewards from their investment through the way their professionals handle any security situation.
