When charged with both safeguarding people and property, security professionals often find themselves at the forefront of challenging situations where quick decisions can have significant consequences. Understanding the principles, guidelines, and ethical considerations surrounding the use of force is critical for every security guard. In this guide, we’ll explore the use of force continuum, share examples, and highlight guidelines to equip security personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate these critical moments with confidence and professionalism.
What is the Use of Force?
In professional security contexts, the use of force is an aspect of physical security that refers to the authorized application of physical coercion or restraint by security personnel to protect individuals, property, or assets from harm or unauthorized access. The use of force is typically governed by legal and ethical guidelines and is considered a last resort when other measures, like verbal warnings or non-lethal deterrents, have failed or are insufficient to resolve a situation.
Can Security Guards Use Force?
Yes, both armed and unarmed security guards can use force if the situation calls for it. The level of force used by security personnel should be proportional to the threat or risk faced and should be employed with careful consideration for the safety and rights of everyone involved. Common scenarios where the use of force may be necessary include detaining trespassers, restraining individuals who pose a threat to themselves or others, or protecting property from damage or theft.
It's important for security professionals to receive appropriate training and certification in the use of force techniques and to adhere to established protocols and regulations to ensure that their actions are lawful, justified, and effective in maintaining safety and security. Additionally, maintaining clear communication and de-escalation skills can minimize the need for physical force in many situations.
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Use of Force Examples for Security Guards
While on the job, security guards may encounter various situations where the use of force is necessary to protect people, property, or assets. Here are some examples of scenarios where a security guard might need to use force.
Detaining Trespassers
If individuals refuse to leave a property after being asked to do so by the security guard and continue to trespass, the guard may use reasonable force to detain them until law enforcement arrives.
Subduing Aggressive Individuals
When confronted with aggressive behavior, like physical violence or threats toward others, security guards may use force to restrain and neutralize the threat, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
Preventing Theft or Vandalism
If a security guard witnesses someone attempting to steal or vandalize property, especially if the property is confidential in nature, they may use force to intervene and prevent the crime from occurring, like physically restraining the individual until law enforcement arrives.
Protecting Themselves or Others
In situations where a security guard or others are in imminent danger of harm, the guard may use force to defend themselves or others, including using physical restraint or non-lethal weapons as necessary.
Breaking up Physical Altercations
Security guards may need to intervene in fights or altercations occurring on the premises they are responsible for, using force to separate and control the individuals involved until the situation is resolved or law enforcement arrives.
Responding to Active Threats
In the event of an active threat situation, like an armed intruder or active shooter, security guards may need to use force to neutralize the threat and protect the lives of those present, potentially including the use of firearms in accordance with their training and legal authority.
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The Use of Force Continuum
The use of force continuum is a concept often used to describe the different levels or steps of force that can be employed by security personnel, law enforcement officers, and other authorized individuals. The continuum provides a framework for escalating or de-escalating the level of force based on the situation.
Presence
The mere presence of a security guard or law enforcement officer can sometimes be enough to deter potential threats or altercations. A visible security presence can serve as a deterrent without the need for any further action.
Verbal Commands
Security personnel can issue verbal commands or warnings to gain compliance or de-escalate a situation. Clear and assertive communication can often resolve conflicts without the need for physical intervention.
Empty-Hand Control
If verbal commands are ineffective or if there is a need for physical intervention, security guards may use empty-hand control techniques like restraint holds, joint locks, or escorting individuals away from the scene.
Non-Lethal Force
Non-lethal weapons or tools can be used to subdue or control a subject without causing permanent injury. Non-lethal options include pepper spray, batons, and tasers.
Lethal Force
As a last resort, security personnel may use lethal force, like firearms, when faced with an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm to themselves or others. The use of lethal force is highly regulated and typically requires a significant escalation of the threat level.
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8 Use of Force Guidelines to Consider
Security guards should adhere to a set of guidelines and principles when considering the use of force to ensure that their actions are lawful, justified, and proportional to the threat posed. Here are some key guidelines that security guards should follow when considering use of force.
1. Know and Follow Policies and Procedures
Security guards should be familiar with both their employer’s policies and state laws regarding the use of force. They should understand the circumstances under which force is permitted and the appropriate steps to take in different situations.
2. Assess Threats and Risks
Before taking any action, security guards should assess the level of threat and risk posed by the situation. They should consider factors like the behavior of the individuals involved, the potential for escalation, and the presence of weapons or other dangerous items.
3. Use Verbal De-Escalation
Whenever possible, security guards should attempt to defuse tense situations through verbal communication. They should use clear and assertive language to issue commands, set boundaries, and attempt to gain compliance without resorting to physical force.
4. Employ Minimal Force Necessary
Security guards should use only the amount of force necessary to achieve their objectives and address the threat or risk presented. They should escalate force gradually, starting with the least intrusive methods and escalating only if other options have been exhausted or are ineffective.
5. Protect Life and Safety
The primary goal of security guards should be to protect the lives and safety of themselves, others, and the property or assets they are responsible for. Force should be used to prevent harm and maintain order, rather than to punish or retaliate.
6. Consider Alternatives to Force
Before using physical force, security guards should consider whether there are alternative strategies or interventions that could be employed to resolve the situation peacefully. This could include calling for backup, seeking assistance from law enforcement, or attempting to remove individuals from the area without using force.
7. Document and Report Incidents
After any use of force incident, security guards should document the details of what occurred, including the actions taken, the reasons for using force, and any injuries sustained. They should report the incident to their supervisor or appropriate authorities in accordance with organizational procedures.
8. Receive Proper Training
Security guards should regularly receive comprehensive training in use of force techniques, de-escalation tactics, conflict resolution strategies, and relevant laws and regulations. Ongoing training and professional development are essential to ensure that security personnel are prepared to handle a wide range of situations effectively and safely.
Essential Training for Security Professionals
Looking for a 100% online and on-demand training course that concentrates on use of force? Look no further than the Use of Force for the Security Officer Course by NITA. This course provides comprehensive training regarding the use of force in a security setting and covers documentation and report writing as well. With this course, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to handle yourself professionally in a variety of situations.
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