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In 2021, the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers condominium in Florida claimed 98 lives. During the ensuing litigation, it was revealed that the security guard on duty was not adequately trained to use the building’s emergency communication systems. This lack of training was a critical factor, leading the security company, Securitas, to settle for $517 million.
While the blame in such cases may be easy to assign, the more pressing issue is how these risks can be mitigated in the first place. The security guard admitted, “If I had known about it, I would have pressed it,” emphasizing the importance of proper training and preparedness.
The Role of Security Guards in Risk Mitigation
Security guards are common in many workplaces, often blending into the background, yet they play a crucial role in mitigating risks. In enterprise security risk management (ESRM), guards are frequently part of the strategy to detect, delay, and respond to physical security threats. However, as demonstrated in the Champlain Towers case, the effectiveness of guards depends heavily on proper training, supervision, and performance management.
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Key Elements of a Successful Guard Force Operation
- Standards, Policies, and Procedures
Guards must be informed about their duties and the policies and procedures they are expected to implement. Poorly trained or uninformed guards can create a false sense of security, potentially leading to catastrophic results. Following recognized standards, such as the ASIS Private Security Officer Selection and Training guideline (ASIS PSO-2019), can help build a solid foundation for guard operations. - Training, Supervision, and Documentation
Many security guards receive only minimal training—often 20 hours or less—leading to inadequate preparedness for emergencies. A proper training program, along with a certification process tailored to the specific site, can significantly improve performance. Frequent follow-up training is essential, particularly for emergency scenarios that occur less often. Supervisors should regularly check on guards and review procedures, documenting the training to ensure accountability and readiness. - Quality Control and Performance Verification
Effective supervision is a force multiplier in any security operation. By maintaining regular check-ins, supervisors can identify guards who need additional training, providing an essential layer of quality control. Additionally, documenting training and performance outcomes is critical, both for internal improvement and in the event of legal challenges.
Enhancing Guard Performance to Mitigate Risks
When security guards are properly trained, supervised, and supported by clear policies, they can be an integral part of an organization’s risk management strategy. To make this happen, organizations must invest in building systems that align with their specific needs, ensuring that guards add value, improve safety, and reduce liability risks.
