How to Start a Security Officer Business

We live in a world where more and more security is need every year. The demand for private security has continued to increase over the last couple of decades. Security businesses require lots of planning and licensing. Security can be a lucrative business if you effectively execute a well thought out business plan.

Instructions

Security Businesses

1. Obtain all of your required local security business licensing and permits. This is a regulated business in most states. Be sure to check with your state, county and city for all required licensing and permits. Security business often requires special state licenses and possible competency exams. The licensing is different if you plan on choosing an armed security business over an unarmed security business. Some states require an extensive background in law enforcement, the military or a certificate from a security training program. Be sure to meet these requirements. Every state is different. You can find this information on your states Secretary of State web site.

2. Secure the required surety bonding and insurance. The surety bonds will provide monetary coverage for a potential failure to perform the security duties as agreed to in your security contracts. Most property owners will require proof of bonding. Purchase general liability insurance and workers compensation insurance specialized for security operations. The general liability insurance will protect your new business from any potential financial claim. The workers compensation is a special policy sold to security companies. It is not the standard administrative workers comp policy. Security is seen as a high risk business and requires larger policy limits that a standard workers comp policy. Travelers insures all sorts of security related businesses.

3. Your agents will need the specialized tools of the security trade. All agents should be provided with uniforms that clearly identify them as security guards. The uniforms will be a paramilitary type uniform with pockets for tools and supplies. Security guards need an industrial flash light, radio communication system, cell phone (push to talk) and an emergency activation devise. Many security companies now equip their guards with non-lethal forms of protection such as mace, pepper spray or possible an electric shock gun. You can find lots of security guard supplies and equipment at USA Security Products (http://www.usasecurityproducts.com/Shop-By-Category.php?name=Equipment).

4. In many states every agent working for a security company must register with the state or jurisdiction that they will be working in. They require the agents to be licensed and fingerprinted. Check your state requirements for their requirements. A thorough background check should be conducted on every individual that your company hires. Sine these individuals will be provided with keys, pass codes and access to restricted areas it is important to ensure that they are trustworthy.

5. If your security contracts require coverage of a large campus or building transportation may be required. Any vehicle supplied to your agents, whether an ATV, car or golf cart, they should be labeled and identified as a security vehicle, Check with your state for requirements on identifying security vehicles. Some states are very detailed as to how a security vehicle must be labeled and identified.

References

• USA Security Products
• Linkonlearning