2 answers
Kealii
Student
Salem, Oregon
1
Question
Updated
552 views
What are these answers for my security trade?
Are you provided with non-lethal weapons when doing security?
Can you take breaks when doing patrols for security while on the clock if needed?
If you are doing patrols for unarmed security and someone trespasses the property and that person is armed and you aren't able to run or hide?
Would there be a sign-on bonus for a certain company in security?
Are the uniforms free or not when you are required to wear them for the job of security?
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2 answers
Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
235
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Delighted to assist an ambitious future officer! I trust my nearly 15 years of hands-on experience will be beneficial to you.
"Is non-lethal weaponry provided during security duties?"
The provision of non-lethal weapons depends on the specific assignment and the state you reside in. Certain state security licenses and certifications necessitate an endorsement for the use of sprays and batons. Some companies, however, may avoid providing these due to the potential liability that could arise from incorrect usage by the officer. Therefore, companies assess their risk levels, incident rates, and then decide if such devices are necessary. For most entry-level positions with large security contractors, these defense tools are not required. This is because officers are typically assigned tasks like operating gates, controlling traffic, or checking in visitors.
"Are breaks allowed during security patrols if necessary?"
If you're referring to necessities like bathroom breaks, almost all patrol or round assignments I've been part of allow for such flexibility. However, you're expected to carry your radio with you. As for breaks involving sitting down, eating, or leaving the area, these are entirely dependent on the company's policies. Non-patrol assignments like security checkpoints, dispatching, traffic, or special duty, usually require someone to cover for you during breaks.
"What if an armed trespasser enters the property during an unarmed security patrol and you can't run or hide?"
In most cases, when you confront a trespasser, it's unlikely you'll know if they're carrying a concealed firearm. You might notice it when they approach you, due to a noticeable bulge, a visible holster, or other signs. In such situations, your words and judgement become your primary tools. I once encountered a man near my fence line who was carrying a concealed firearm while searching for his lost dog. He was unaware he had wandered onto company property and carried the firearm legally due to a high bear population in the area. In most cases, people don't brandish their firearms. If an armed individual is spotted on CCTV, the usual response is to call local law enforcement for backup and advise unarmed staff not to approach. We regularly undergo active shooter drills and exercises, particularly since the Sandy Hook incident in my state. Thankfully, such incidents are rare, despite their prominence in the news.
"Does any security company offer a sign-on bonus?"
Given the high number of applicants and the relative ease of obtaining certifications, I've never come across a sign-on bonus for officer positions. Security companies typically employ low-wage workers, as the fees charged to clients are often distributed among managers, accountants, HR personnel, and other non-frontline staff. Even during the pandemic, filling positions was straightforward due to the high number of unemployed individuals willing to accept any job offer. Sign-on bonuses are usually reserved for roles such as executive protection, international defense assignments, or positions requiring high-level government clearance from day one. These roles are often filled by ex-military or ex-law enforcement personnel.
"Are uniforms provided free of charge for security jobs?"
The only roles for which I've been provided a uniform were internal positions within a company's own security department. In the past, when I worked for a large security company, they always covered the uniform costs. However, some of my colleagues found their initial paychecks significantly reduced due to choosing to have their uniform costs deducted from their wages. It's also worth noting that some companies consider these uniforms as rented, meaning you pay for them and must return them when you leave. Consequently, it might take some time to recoup the initial costs. Employers that cover uniform costs usually limit the number they provide per year. If you wish to purchase additional uniforms to reduce laundry frequency, that's typically allowed. Some employers even cover the cost of your shoes or boots.
"Is non-lethal weaponry provided during security duties?"
The provision of non-lethal weapons depends on the specific assignment and the state you reside in. Certain state security licenses and certifications necessitate an endorsement for the use of sprays and batons. Some companies, however, may avoid providing these due to the potential liability that could arise from incorrect usage by the officer. Therefore, companies assess their risk levels, incident rates, and then decide if such devices are necessary. For most entry-level positions with large security contractors, these defense tools are not required. This is because officers are typically assigned tasks like operating gates, controlling traffic, or checking in visitors.
"Are breaks allowed during security patrols if necessary?"
If you're referring to necessities like bathroom breaks, almost all patrol or round assignments I've been part of allow for such flexibility. However, you're expected to carry your radio with you. As for breaks involving sitting down, eating, or leaving the area, these are entirely dependent on the company's policies. Non-patrol assignments like security checkpoints, dispatching, traffic, or special duty, usually require someone to cover for you during breaks.
"What if an armed trespasser enters the property during an unarmed security patrol and you can't run or hide?"
In most cases, when you confront a trespasser, it's unlikely you'll know if they're carrying a concealed firearm. You might notice it when they approach you, due to a noticeable bulge, a visible holster, or other signs. In such situations, your words and judgement become your primary tools. I once encountered a man near my fence line who was carrying a concealed firearm while searching for his lost dog. He was unaware he had wandered onto company property and carried the firearm legally due to a high bear population in the area. In most cases, people don't brandish their firearms. If an armed individual is spotted on CCTV, the usual response is to call local law enforcement for backup and advise unarmed staff not to approach. We regularly undergo active shooter drills and exercises, particularly since the Sandy Hook incident in my state. Thankfully, such incidents are rare, despite their prominence in the news.
"Does any security company offer a sign-on bonus?"
Given the high number of applicants and the relative ease of obtaining certifications, I've never come across a sign-on bonus for officer positions. Security companies typically employ low-wage workers, as the fees charged to clients are often distributed among managers, accountants, HR personnel, and other non-frontline staff. Even during the pandemic, filling positions was straightforward due to the high number of unemployed individuals willing to accept any job offer. Sign-on bonuses are usually reserved for roles such as executive protection, international defense assignments, or positions requiring high-level government clearance from day one. These roles are often filled by ex-military or ex-law enforcement personnel.
"Are uniforms provided free of charge for security jobs?"
The only roles for which I've been provided a uniform were internal positions within a company's own security department. In the past, when I worked for a large security company, they always covered the uniform costs. However, some of my colleagues found their initial paychecks significantly reduced due to choosing to have their uniform costs deducted from their wages. It's also worth noting that some companies consider these uniforms as rented, meaning you pay for them and must return them when you leave. Consequently, it might take some time to recoup the initial costs. Employers that cover uniform costs usually limit the number they provide per year. If you wish to purchase additional uniforms to reduce laundry frequency, that's typically allowed. Some employers even cover the cost of your shoes or boots.
Ubaid Malik
Freelance Writer
5
Answers
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
Updated
Ubaid’s Answer
I'm unable to peek into your specific security trade details, so I can't give you tailored advice about your situation. However, I can share some general insights that might be relevant to security roles:
Non-lethal Tools: Some security positions equip you with non-lethal tools such as pepper spray or batons, but this hinges on the company's rules and the job's demands.
Rest Periods during Patrols: It's common for security staff to have scheduled rest periods during their shifts. This helps ensure they stay alert and well-rested while on duty.
Dealing with Armed Intruders: If you come across an armed intruder during unarmed security patrols, your safety comes first. Find a secure spot, notify the police, and give them as much information about the armed person as possible.
Welcome Bonus: To draw in skilled candidates, some security firms may offer a welcome bonus, but this can vary based on the company and the role.
Uniforms: The provision of uniforms for free isn't guaranteed, as it hinges on the company's rules.
For precise information about your security trade, it's wise to reach out to your employer or the company's HR team. They can provide you with accurate and customized advice based on your employment circumstances.
Non-lethal Tools: Some security positions equip you with non-lethal tools such as pepper spray or batons, but this hinges on the company's rules and the job's demands.
Rest Periods during Patrols: It's common for security staff to have scheduled rest periods during their shifts. This helps ensure they stay alert and well-rested while on duty.
Dealing with Armed Intruders: If you come across an armed intruder during unarmed security patrols, your safety comes first. Find a secure spot, notify the police, and give them as much information about the armed person as possible.
Welcome Bonus: To draw in skilled candidates, some security firms may offer a welcome bonus, but this can vary based on the company and the role.
Uniforms: The provision of uniforms for free isn't guaranteed, as it hinges on the company's rules.
For precise information about your security trade, it's wise to reach out to your employer or the company's HR team. They can provide you with accurate and customized advice based on your employment circumstances.