Security Guard Training

Security guard training is a two fold process. First, at a minimum, you will probably find that most companies offering security guard jobs will require you to have a security guard license (also referred to as a “guard card”) before they will hire you. This is because guard cards are mandatory for anyone to legally work as a security guard in most states.

The process needed to acquire a guard card varies from state to state. Most will require you to receive at least one day of instruction from an authorized school and to pass a criminal background check before they will issue they will issue you your license.

Some states do not require guard cards or licenses, so you will need to check with the governing agency of your state or prospective employer to learn what is required. In states where guard cards are not legally required, you will still mostly likely be expected to receive some basic training from your employer if you are not already experienced.

The second phase of your security guard training happens on the job and is much more hands-on specific. If you are to work for a security company, for instance, they will have their own polices and procedures to follow. It's a good idea to get familiar with them as soon as possible. Some polices you may find objectionable and may prevent you from taking employment. The earlier you find this out, as well as everything that is expected of you, the better off you are.

Another thing you will need to become familiar with a security officer are what are known as “post orders”. Post orders are the job expectations and duties issued by your employer for any given security guard station or post. Read them carefully because, ultimately, you will be responsible for following all the rules and regulations expected of you. If you are assigned to a post that does not have post orders, ask your supervisor if there is anything written that explains your job. Almost always, there is something.

Security guard training is extremely important and each account has unique security needs. Below is a typical list of what will be expected of you regardless where you work.

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION: This is critical for you to know. If there is nothing written, request permission to jot down names and numbers of anyone who must be contacted during emergency situations.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES: You must know what to do for elevator entrapment, fire, earthquake, terrorism and bomb threat scenarios. Your security guard training should cover all related emergency topics to ensure you can handle appropriately these life-threatening situations.

RULES OF CONDUCT: These are specific regulations that relate to how you are to behave on post. Often cited is a list of unacceptable behavior such as fraternization, drinking on the job, tardiness, etc… Most security guard training will cover these issues in detail.

SHIFT DUTIES: Often there is more than one shift per account and the duties vary depending upon the time of day. These 'duties' should be written down to avoid confusion and enforce accountability.

The more informed an officer is, the more likely he or she is to perform their job duties well. So take initiative. If you need to learn more about something, simply ask a supervisor. Rarely will you be criticized for wanting to know about your job.

Security guard training is always a work-in-progress and the more successful officers are the ones who take an active initiative with their own education.

© 2010 GuardTrainingOnline.net. All Rights Reserved. Written by Scott Dinnerman