Understanding Security Guard POST Orders: A Comprehensive and Detailed Guide

In the realm of security services, POST (Position Orders for Security Tasks) orders serve as a crucial operational manual for security personnel. These documents detail the specific duties, responsibilities, protocols, and expectations required of security guards, ensuring that every action taken is both effective and consistent with the client’s needs. Here’s an exhaustive breakdown of what POST orders encompass and why they are indispensable in security management.

What are POST Orders?

POST orders are meticulously crafted documents that provide security guards with the necessary guidance to perform their duties effectively. They cover every aspect of a guard’s role, including:

• Who: Identifies which guards are responsible for specific tasks.
• What: Lists the tasks and duties guards are expected to perform.
• Where: Specifies the locations where duties should be carried out.
• When: Details shift hours and the timing for specific tasks such as patrols.
• Why: Explains the purpose of each task, enhancing guard understanding and compliance.

Comprehensive Details in POST Orders

1. Operational Duties and Routine Tasks

• Daily Activity Reports: Guards must record all observations and incidents to maintain a log of daily activities.
• Patrols: Instructions on patrol routes, times, and frequency are provided to ensure all areas are monitored effectively.
• Access Control: Manages the entry and exit of individuals to prevent unauthorized access.
• CCTV Monitoring: Guards are tasked with operating and monitoring CCTV systems to ensure ongoing surveillance.

2. Special Instructions and Situational Protocols

• BOLOs (Be On the Look Out): Alerts about specific individuals or activities to watch for.
• Trespass Orders: Guidelines on how to handle unauthorized individuals.
• Situational Awareness: Instructions to maintain high alertness and recognize potential threats.

3. Emergency and Safety Protocols

• Evacuation Policy: Detailed routes and procedures for safely evacuating the premises in emergencies.
• Active Shooter Procedures: Actions to take if an active shooter is present.
• Natural Disaster Responses: Specific steps for handling fires, floods, tornadoes, and other natural events.
• First Aid Response Policies: Guidelines for providing basic medical care until professional help arrives.

4. Communication and Documentation

• Communication Procedure: Protocols for internal communication and coordination with external bodies.
• Report Writing Expectations: Standards for documenting incidents, ensuring reports are thorough and accurate.
• Supervisor and Emergency Contact Information: Contact details for supervisors and emergency personnel are listed for quick reference.

5. Equipment and Uniform Standards

• Uniform Requirements: Standards for uniforms to ensure guards are identifiable and professional.
• Authorized Firearms and Less Lethal Equipment: Lists permissible weapons and tools that guards may carry.

6. Legal and Ethical Compliance

• Use of Force Policy: Outlines conditions under which guards can apply physical force.
• Detainment Policy: Guidelines on how and when guards can detain individuals.
• Company Policies: Includes broader company policies on ethics and conduct.

The Importance of POST Orders

POST orders are not just procedural manuals but are foundational tools that enhance security efficiency and accountability. They provide guards with the knowledge and authority to act confidently and competently in both routine and emergency scenarios. By establishing clear expectations, POST orders help minimize risks and enhance overall safety for properties, assets, and individuals.

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Example Of Security Guard POST Orders:

Enhanced Sample POST Orders for a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Facility

Facility Overview:

The Department of Motor Vehicles office addressed in this document provides services such as vehicle registrations, driver licensing, and testing. It experiences a high volume of public traffic, necessitating robust security measures.

Operational Hours:

The DMV operates Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Security Personnel:

This facility is guarded by two trained security professionals. Guard A is stationed at the main entrance, while Guard B is responsible for external patrols, including vehicle patrols.

Detailed Duties and Responsibilities:

Main Entrance Security (Guard A):

• Access Control: Strictly monitor and control access at the main entrance. Verify identities and appointments using provided documentation and digital systems. Ensure that entry is allowed only for legitimate purposes.
• Visitor Management: Direct visitors to appropriate service counters or waiting areas. Manage queue lines to maintain order and efficiency.
• Surveillance: Constantly monitor the lobby and entrance area for any unusual activities or potential security threats using both direct observation and CCTV systems.
• Incident Response: Be prepared to respond to any emergencies or confrontations. Use de-escalation techniques where possible and alert Guard B and the supervisor for backup if necessary.

Patrol Duties (Guard B):

• Regular Patrols: Conduct hourly patrols around the facility’s perimeter and parking areas using the designated security vehicle. Ensure all emergency exits and gates are clear and secure.
• Security Checks: Check the integrity of physical barriers such as fences and windows during patrols. Report any damage or potential security breaches.
• Log Keeping: Maintain detailed logs of each patrol, noting the time, observations, and any irregularities or incidents. Vehicle logs should include start and end mileage to track usage.
• Emergency Assistance: Provide rapid response to any incidents within the outer areas of the DMV, assisting Guard A with crowd control or emergency evacuations as needed.

Communication and Reporting Procedures:

Daily Reporting:

• Shift Reports: Each guard must compile a comprehensive report at the end of their shift, detailing incidents, the number of visitors, and any security concerns observed.
• Log Books: Maintain log books at both the main entrance and in the patrol vehicle for real-time incident logging.

Incident Management:

• Immediate Action: In the event of a security incident, guards must secure the scene, provide immediate assistance, and notify the DMV supervisor and local law enforcement if necessary.
• Documentation: All incidents must be thoroughly documented with photographs, written descriptions, and any witness statements. These documents should be submitted to the DMV management and kept on file for legal and administrative review.

Emergency and Safety Protocols:

Evacuation Procedure:

• Role Specific Actions: Guard A will guide visitors and staff to nearest exits. Guard B will check external assembly areas and ensure they are secure and accessible.
• Training: Both guards will receive regular training on emergency evacuation procedures and use of emergency equipment like fire extinguishers.

Medical Emergencies:

• First Aid: Both guards are trained in basic first aid and CPR. They will provide immediate care while waiting for emergency medical services when necessary.
• Equipment: A fully stocked first aid kit will be available at the main entrance and in the patrol vehicle.

Severe Weather and Natural Disasters:

• Protocol Customization: Specific procedures for handling natural disasters such as tornadoes or severe storms will be outlined, detailing safe zones and communication strategies during such events.

Equipment and Uniform Guidelines:

Uniforms:

• Specifications: Guards are required to wear prescribed DMV security uniforms, including a badge, name tag, and during night or poor weather conditions, reflective vests for high visibility.

Authorized Equipment:

• Standard Issue: Guard A will carry a two-way radio, flashlight, and a panic button. Guard B will additionally be equipped with a dashboard camera in the security vehicle.

Supervision and Emergency Contacts:

Supervision:

• Daily Briefings: Guards will receive daily briefings from the DMV security supervisor detailing specific focus areas or concerns.
• Continuous Feedback: Guards are encouraged to provide feedback on security measures and suggest improvements based on their daily observations and interactions.

Emergency Contact List:

• Accessibility: A comprehensive list of contacts including local police, fire services, medical facilities, and utility services will be available at both security stations and in the patrol vehicle.

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Conclusion

For businesses employing security services, detailed and well-structured POST orders are critical. They guide security personnel comprehensively in their daily operations and crisis responses, ensuring consistency, legality, and ethical conduct across all tasks. Whether dealing with routine surveillance or emergency situations, POST orders provide a robust framework for maintaining a secure and orderly environment.

Understanding and implementing these orders is paramount in achieving not just the security of a premise but also the confidence and trust of those it serves. With these detailed guides, security guards are better equipped to protect and serve with utmost efficiency and professionalism.