When security personnel and procedures are in place to protect people, assets, and property, efficient guard force management is imperative. The process of guard force management requires a thorough knowledge of the organization’s needs and development of a guard force management strategy that will be effective in protecting personnel and property.
Guard Force Management Plan Development Process
An effective guard force management plan sets out roles, responsibilities, and the processes for protection of property and personnel. It also sets out procedures in handling security violations and negative events. The following steps in plan development will help to assure efficient implementation.
Objectives and Goals are Established
Working with responsible management, the guard force management professional(s) will determine the objectives and goals of the organization. Also, the current security strategy is assessed and the results used in planning for changes, additions, and/or improvements. Goals should include reduction of risks from theft or vandalism. The overall goal is to deter criminal activity and to ensure a safe environment for employees and customers.
Policy and Procedures Development
Policies and procedures for guard force management, once goals and objectives are set out, are then formulated to guide the organization’s guard force in performing their duties. The guidelines will set forth the actions to be taken in spotting suspicious activity, how to handle it, when to use force, and the reporting process post-incident. As protection of personnel and property will require interaction with other departments, policies should set out procedures for communication and interaction throughout the organization.
Education and Training
Depending upon the organization’s activities, location, and possible threats, the guard force must be trained in the appropriate use of force and in the tactics and skills in properly using force. Training should include clear education in skills required to recognize threats as early as possible in order to avoid the use of force when possible. Training should be ongoing and including updates on possible threats and procedures as they may change.
Program Evaluation and Monitoring
Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the program is necessary to maintain a quality and effective guard force management. Regular interviews with guards is important, and fewer but regular interviews with those they protect are helpful. Reporting to organization management on a regular basis helps to facilitate communication and to improve the guard force management program.
Guard Force Training Best Practices
Training is critical to efficient performance of guard duties and the protection of staff and property. Guard force experts have found that certain best practices can facilitate a smooth and effective program.
- Set out clear expectations for guards: It is important for guard candidates to understand the requirements for their job and to understand expectations for their performance. Expectations for the training process and desired results are important as well.
- Training program should be exhaustive and detailed: All aspects of the guard job should be addressed thoroughly in training, from communication with staff. Other training subjects include:
- response procedures in the event of emergencies or criminal activity.
- protection and safety protocols.
- legal concerns
- use of force protocols
- Communication in both directions: encourage feedback from guards on the training process and its content. Likewise, criticize or complement as needed for best results.
Monitor performance post-training, and if criticism is necessary, try to relate it back to relevant training topics.
Conclusion
For most organizations, guard force management is not a do-it-yourself activity. Hiring experts and developing with their help an organized program is the desired approach. Kimmons Investigative Services is fortunate to be working with Mitch Price to bring his extensive experience in guard force management to clients, including:
- managing diverse guard forces in high-risk locations
- executive oversight in development of guard force structure
- development of contract scopes of work
- optimization of budget expenditures