The Role of a Security Officer

Knowing the Difference

Aug 27, 2019


If crime prevention for your business or event is at the top of your to-do list, you’re not alone. Many businesses include security protection in their budgets to offset any potential financial losses due to theft. Private Security companies, like Lofton Security Service, provide skilled Security Officers who are able to utilize their training to spot potential security threats. Security Officers provide the following: 

Security Officers Provide Prevention

Preventing security issues is one of the most important goals of Security Officers because they play a DEFENSIVE rather than OFFENSIVE role when it comes to securing properties. Unlike police officers, security officers' duties do not include offensive tactics, such as detaining assailants or apprehending criminals. Instead, Security Officers take preventative measures to deter crime, including trespassing and theft. Security Officers must be visible and observant to help prevent intrusion and crime from occurring.  

In addition, Private Security companies, like Lofton Security Service, represent the business owners where police officers, even off duty on special assignment, represent the city, parish/county, or state for which they work. Police officers are not allowed to speak to anyone on private property unless they have a reasonable suspicion that a crime has been committed. A Security Officer can interact with anyone at any time because they represent a private party rather than a Government agency.  

SECURITY OFFICERS PROVIDE REPORTS (FEEDBACK)

Security Officers are expected to observe and report on the environment they are protecting. These reports may include any surveillance activity, occurrences, observations, witness statements and signatures, and interviews that took place during an incident. Security Officers can report to the company any risks spotted during a patrol.  Any risk, even a low risk one, can potentially present a problem. Leaks, cracks, unauthorized persons, water damage, malfunctioning machines, expired fire extinguishers and maintenance needs are just a few examples.  

To enhance these measures, a guard tour system, like Lofton Security’s OfficerReports System, includes software that provides accurate data regarding security officers' whereabouts, which can be instrumental for reporting and observation purposes.  

SECURITY OFFICERS’ COST IS MANAGEABLE

Not only do Security Officers help prevent theft from happening, but the cost is manageable for businesses.  Typically, security companies charge based on the hourly rate of the security officers assigned to a site or event. In the case of vehicle patrols, such as patrols for parking lots, housing communities, or construction sites there may be additional fees to account for fuel and business overhead. Rates vary based on whether the Security Officers are armed, how risky the particular job is, and what type of additional site specific training the Security Officer may need.  Below are average (nationwide) hourly bill rates from Thumbtack, Inc. for security officers hired from a full-service security company:  

  • Basic unarmed guard: $15-$20 per hour
  • Basic armed guard: $20-$25 per hour
  • Unarmed guard with advanced skills and experience: $30-$35 per hour
  • Armed guard with advanced skills and experience: $35-$45 per hour
  • Armed off-duty police officers, ex-military: $60-$100 per hour or more

A business can have two to three Unarmed Security Officers for almost the same cost of one off-duty police officer. This doubles the manpower and coverage for the property or venue.  

HIRING A PRIVATE SECURITY COMPANY

Hiring a Private Security company, like Lofton Security Service, is your first line of defense against intrusion and loss to property and assets. Verify that the company you're working with is compliant with state and regional licensing requirements and has sufficient liability insurance coverage. Each state has its own laws and regulations governing private security services. When hiring, you'll want to find a full-service company that offers security-related safety services, like Lofton Safety Services.  

Another issue to consider when choosing between a private security officer and off-duty police officer is liability insurance.  Will the City, Parish/County, or State agency cover any and all liabilities for an off-duty police officer working on private property? Private Security companies have Certificates of Insurance (COI) naming their clients as the Certificate Holders. These COIs offer a layer of protection to the client against civil or criminal suits.  

About Lofton: Founded in 1979, Lofton Services offers clients the best of all worlds. We provide the responsive, personal service and flexibility of a small local firm while having the technology, resources, and infrastructure to deliver the benefits of the biggest players in our industry. Lofton Staffing can deliver the right people, with the right skills, right when you need them. Celebrating 40 years in staffing excellence! Contact us today

 


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