Training Spotlight: Fighting Violence with Preparedness

On September 11, 2016, Sunstates Security Officer Antoine Worsley of Raleigh, N.C., received the Ralph Day Security Officer Heroism Award from the ASIS International Security Services Council. The award recognized Worsley’s life-saving heroism on January 12, 2016, when he responded to a fight outside his assigned office building.  Three men were punching and kicking the fourth man, on the ground, who had previously attempted to rob one of his attackers. Worsley advised the individuals to “go their separate ways.” As the group dispersed, the man on the ground pulled out a knife and stabbed one of his assailants multiple times.

The armed man continued to threaten the other individuals, even after learning the police were en route. Worsley approached him from behind and grabbed his arm, forcing him to drop the weapon. The man was detained until police arrived and EMS provided medical assistance. Medics later revealed that one of the wounds was near-fatal and that additional injury could have resulted in death.

The story had a happy ending, thanks to Worsley’s training and quick response. But how do you assess the effectiveness of a security company’s training program before an incident?

What to Look for in Security Training

One challenge in vetting security partners lies in the fact that everyone makes the same claims. Use these guidelines to dig beyond the marketing hype:

• Training curriculum. Do they have a skilled, in-house team that develops their materials? Do they outsource training to a reputable third party? Perhaps they combine proprietary and external programs, such as the Crisis Prevention Institute’s Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Training. (Hint: A collection of pirated VCR tapes is a bad sign.)
• Training methods. How are training programs delivered and reinforced? The best programs present information in different ways, testing retention and understanding on an ongoing basis—such as during inspections. Role-playing opportunities can help officers empathize with others as they attempt to diffuse a situation.
• Training metrics. How closely does the company track employee training progress? Are officer training records available for client review? Retention rates should also factor into the equation. Does the firm offer a rotating staff with basic training? Or do they have a stable team that shows continuing advancement?
• Client support. How can the security firm support internal training efforts? For instance, some companies coordinate active shooter training with local police departments. They may also offer educational seminars on employee awareness and the importance of communication.

For information on how Sunstates Security can help support your employee training efforts and prepare a plan for violence please call us at 866-710-2019 or contact us.