To work as a commercial armed security guard the individual must have first completed all the requirements to work in an unarmed capacity. As well as various elements of training, each will be required to undergo specific background checks to confirm their right to work in the USA and the absence of any serious criminal convictions.
The duties of the armed security guard will differ somewhat, depending on the particular role in which they’re employed. For instance, the daily routine of those who work in a school environment will be significantly distinct from those who work as an armed executive protection officer. However, the underlying responsibilities and obligations remain the same.
These include:
– The protection of property and/or persons
– To prevent criminal acts from taking place—such as theft, vandalism, hostility, violence, attacks, etc.
– Recognize and diffuse potential criminal and/or violent situations
– React with force (lethal if necessary) should the situation warrant
While armed security guards do, of course, have a right to draw and discharge their weapons, this will always be the very last course of action.
Such a position of responsibility calls for very particular personal skills that are further enhanced by training specific to that of the security guard. These include, but certainly aren’t restricted to,
– Situational awareness
– The ability to recognize body language and behaviors that might be cause for concern
– Exceptional communication skills
– An impeccable attitude regarding confidentiality