Seattle is a great place for commercial and residential industries alike. If you want to protect your business and help it thrive, you’ll want to consider hiring a reliable security guard company. As you look into the different options of security guard companies, assess the following criteria and security needs and solutions to help you make the best choice:
1. Licensing, Compliance and Regulations
Security guard companies and their personnel must adhere to relevant regulations. When selecting a company, ensure it’s licensed and meets Washington’s security requirements. For instance, company owners must have at least three years of experience supervising or managing a private security business or related field. They should also pass an examination testing their competence in the industry.
The licenses given to private security guard companies are not to be taken as a license to operate as a public law enforcement agency. Companies that portray themselves as part of law enforcement will not be issued the license.
2. Training Standards and Personnel Qualifications
Security personnel management differs for each company. Inquire about how companies hire their staff and what training they’ve undergone. Keep in mind that the required security guard training and qualifications vary depending on whether they involve unarmed, armed or fire watch guards.
In Washington, security guards need to complete eight hours of preassignment, eight hours of postassignment and four hours of annual refresher training. Companies can waive preassignment training if the guards have been employed as a sworn peace officer not more than five years before they apply for a license. Companies can also waive postassignment training if the security guard is already licensed and is transferring from another company.
Training topics vary. For instance, preassignment training topics can include:
- The basic role of security guards
- Washington state licensing laws
- Citizens’ arrest and limitations on authority
- Emergency response during fires, medical emergencies, criminal acts or bomb threats
- Safety and accident prevention from hazardous materials
- Report writing
After training, private security guards need to pass an exam before receiving their license. They must renew their license yearly.
Postassignment and refresher training can include similar topics from the preassignment courses. These topics may also be included:
- The legal aspects of private security
- Proper security officer conduct
- How to observe and report incidents
- Principles of communications
- Enter and exit control procedures
- Electronic security systems
- Evacuation processes
- Life safety awareness
- Job assignments and postorders
Armed security guards should be licensed as private security guards and have a firearms certificate relevant to what they use on the job. The security guard company should own or lease these firearms. Fire watch guards should go through fire watch training, which includes instructions on their expected duties, fire safety equipment and personal protective equipment.
3. Security Company Services and Reputation
Consider the company’s services and reputation to see how they’d serve and fit into your business ownership and operation. For instance, financial institutions likely require armed security guards as they have a higher risk of potential crime. However, unarmed guards can be sufficient for residential buildings. You can also opt for patrol services for extra safety.
To determine what services you need, perform a thorough risk assessment of your business. Analyze if there are past security incidents, how complicated your building’s layout is, and how risky your day and nighttime operations are. You should also analyze crime statistics in the area, assess vulnerabilities in physical security and review internal security policies. The best companies will come up with a plan that fits your circumstances.
Some companies also use technology in their service offerings. For example, guards may work with advanced surveillance systems. Incorporating a hybrid approach can help you create a comprehensive security presence at your building.
In addition to choosing a company with the right services, be sure to find one with a positive, reliable track record among its customers. When you contact the company’s customer service, it’s best to speak with a real person. Additionally, 24/7 access to the dispatch center means the company is readily available when you need them.
4. Liability Insurance and Risk Management
The implementation of security plans isn’t always perfect. This is why security guard companies need liability insurance to protect their organization and personnel. In Washington, companies must have a certificate of liability insurance amounting to at least $25,000 of property damage coverage and $25,000 of bodily injury coverage. These are usually covered in general liability insurance.
Check that your security management team is covered under the law. In some cases, companies will have even greater liability insurance beyond the minimum requirements, which is always a positive.
5. Pricing and Contract Terms
Some price considerations for security services include:
- Types of security guards: The type of security guards you hire will affect how much you pay for their services. For instance, armed security guards will have additional training due to their firearms license. Fire watch guards will also require a different skill set.
- Training and certifications: Security guards with more training, certifications or licenses may cost more for your company.
- Complexity of your situation: If your business assumes greater risk, you may need more complex security plans, which can affect the cost of your contract.
The most affordable service isn’t always the best option. What matters is that you get the most value out of your money. Make sure to review the terms of your contract, the scope of the company’s work and how the contract can be terminated or modified. Pricing should be transparent, so your contract should explain all details clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
The Guard Alliance Can Help Protect Your Business
When it comes to security risks and threats, The Guard Alliance can provide security guards who are well-equipped to prevent crimes and protect your properties.
Our team of highly skilled security personnel can work with you in Seattle or one of the other 50+ cities we serve. We can offer you unarmed, armed, fire watch and roving patrol guards, depending on your needs. Plus, our services are flexible, with no long-term contracts, so you can modify the schedules and terminate the service as needed.
We surpass the minimum liability requirements, with an insurance coverage of up to $1 million per occurrence. What’s more, you can count on our reliable 24/7 dispatch center, so we can respond to emergency situations promptly. If you’re ready to get started or learn more about security industry insights, request a quote today.
