Security Officers function as the eyes and ears of management and provide invaluable services such as visitor control, fire watch, loss prevention and more to a business owner. While it’s easy for almost any business to justify having the presence of Security Officers, the justification process can be a bit more complicated if you are considering deploying Armed Security Officers on your premises.

When deploying Armed Security Officers, it’s important to be familiar with the laws surrounding the use of deadly force by the personnel who will be assigned to protect your premises.

Here are the Top 5 things to consider before making that decision:

1.    Check Your Legal Liability.

Does your jurisdiction hold you liable, along with the security agency, for the actions of the Armed Security Officers while they are employed on your behalf? Check with your business attorney to be sure.


2.    Check Your Insurance Company’s Position On Armed Security Officers.

Read your general liability policy carefully to see if there are any clauses relating specifically to their use.

Also discuss the matter with your insurance agent. If you are unsure of your insurer’s position, or there are any clauses that give you concern, consult with your business attorney.

You might want to consider adding an additional liability rider to cover your potential exposure to civil action resulting from the actions of Armed Security Officers just to be on the safe side.

 
3.    Check Your Security Agency’s Licensing Status

It is important that you choose a security provider that is fully licensed, bonded, insured and that is authorized to provide Armed Security Officers in your specific jurisdiction.

Don’t just take the agency’s word for it; be sure to verify their credentials with the government agency that provides licensing services.

Also ask for copies of the agency’s insurance documents and bond papers and verify those with the insurance carrier and bond provider. Pay close attention to any clauses limiting liability as well as policy expiration dates.


4.    Ask to See Your Agency’s Hiring and Training Policies

A professional agency will have specific recruitment, hiring and training policies in place for their staff. It’s important for you to select an agency that employees professionals who are well-trained in the use of firearms and are drilled in the acceptable use of force laws for your jurisdiction.

Don’t be afraid to ask how often the agency qualifies their personnel on the firing range. Also ask for the training records of the specific personnel who will be working on your premises.

5.    Ask for References and CHECK THEM

In addition to asking for current and past references from clients who have used the agency’s services, check the agency’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau as well as with the government agency responsible for licensing and regulating the agency.

Before deploying Armed Security Officers to protect your organization, take the time to go through these five steps so you can protect yourself first.