Private Security Contractors 101
The world is familiar with the term "Private Security Contractor." Indeed, private security companies are used by a broad range of industries, including the government, construction, entertainment, and the numerous private companies that operate in virtually every country in the world today. While this term has become a catch-all for most forms of personnel security, the term "Private Security Contractor" can be further defined as a person that specializes in providing security-related services under the direction of a governmental or commercial entity. The services performed by private security contractors can range from the highly specialized delivery of close protection to the basic delivery of perimeter security.
The demand for private security contracting personnel has been steadily increasing since the advent of the global "war on terror." Although military and law enforcement operators from around the world are clearly in high demand , private security contracting personnel are equally in demand as governments and commercial entities seek either to augment their existing security programs or to replace their own existing on-the-ground personnel with cost-effective private security contracting personnel. Because private security contracting personnel are required to perform their duties in complex environments, this often requires a specialized training program for those private security contracting personnel.
Necessary Skills for Security Contractors
To effectively exit and re-enter any stability operation, a Private Security Contractor must be a highly trained protector. This means he or she should possess such skills as physical fitness, situational awareness, legal knowledge, interpersonal skills, and have the ability to assess a situation, remain calm when in stressful situations, and to accurately assess the state of affairs regarding the mission they are tasked with. A Private Security Contractor should have basic medical training at a minimum, plus additional training for how to provide security services, which can include such things as defensive driving, emergency medical care and treatment, and the AWR Program.
Private Security Contractors work in diverse environments. They range from providing security at international airports or other entry points to airports, to serving within a United Nations compound for a UN peacekeeping mission to standing post at a shopping mall or stadiums, to serving as a protective service specialist or security contractor for a civilian contractor on a high-profile defense contract that is supporting the US government overseas, or to just serving as a gate guard at a remotely operated oil field.
Security contractors in the Military Health System also support the MHS mission through policy/standards review, health care system/quality assurance review and monitoring, infection prevention risk assessment and environmental tour, personnel credentialing, data compilation and analysis of utilization and quality indicators, education and training, environmental inspections, implementation of information and data systems, updated medical center disaster plans, and pharmacy support services. Healthcare security officers also provide a very important layer of safety and security to armed forces treatment facilities, in coordination with military police and civilian law enforcement officers when needed.
Training & Certification
Training programs and certifications are integral for private security contractors who need to keep themselves up to date on the latest threats and trends on the ground. Such training will vary depending on the nature of the contracting work being undertaken, but for those new to the profession—and even experienced private security contractors who want to specialize in a new area—there is a wide range of options available.
For example, the U.S. government often requires private security contractors working in the field to participate in formalized training programs. Those looking to enlist in the Army Contractor Registration System (ACRS) must meet a level of standards that is established by the Department of Defense before they are allowed to work in a Red Zone designation, which means they would be in the field within 10 kilometers from hostile activity. This training includes, at a minimum, military first aid, family care plans for dependent children, how to behave in combat-zone environments, and relevant health care and insurance issues, among other topics. Beyond the scope of the ACRS, the Department of State mandates another set of training for its private security contractors who are going to be working in Iraq or Afghanistan.
No matter what the specific need, private security contractors would be wise to seek out one of a number of certification programs that help them better prepare for the unique environments they will be exposed to. The Overseas Security Advisory Council hosts several of these programs, including the Overseas Security Specialist Training Course, the Overseas Security Management Course and the Personal Protection Course for Overseas Professionals. The curriculum for each of these programs varies slightly but all focus on the broad range of knowledge required for contractors to operate in the field, including in areas such as protection operations, behavioral profiling, threat assessment, interpersonal communication and surveillances detection.
Some contractors complete disaster management specialist training programs, which can be invaluable when helping companies and local governments that may be in distress after potential natural catastrophes. The training companies run programs that teach participants on how to deal with everything from disease outbreaks to terrorism, and how to minimize the impact of any disasters that occur.
Private security contractors may also go through training provided by contractors themselves, or they may begin a program on their own. The Institute for Security Studies and the International Foundation for Protection Officers, among several other organizations, offer private security contractors highly respected certification programs. The latter of these two, for example, provides a Hard Target Protection course that educates students on how to provide what the International Foundation believes is the highest level of protective security. The program will prepare private security contractors for a variety of critical tasks, such as identifying potential weaknesses and threats, distinguishing between heavy and light protection needs, and understanding how to employ vehicle-based and foot-based convoy security, among other skills.
How to Select a Training Provider
When considering the investment in private security contractor training, one of the most crucial steps is selecting the right training provider. A robust course curriculum, knowledgeable and experienced instructors, and successful alumni can make a significant difference in the learning experience.
Firstly, examine the course curriculum offered by the provider. The curriculum should be aligned with current industry standards and regulations, ensuring that participants will gain skills and knowledge applicable to real-world situations. It is important to ask potential providers whether their courses are up-to-date, as regulations often change and can vary by location.
Secondly, refer to the instructors’ credentials and expertise in the field. A security contractor training program led by experienced professionals who have worked in the industry is essential for an effective learning experience. These instructors can provide deep insights, practical advice, and insights into the industry that only comes with years of experience.
Lastly, research the stories behind successful alumni. Testimonials and reviews from previous participants can provide a glimpse into the provider’s track record of success. Do they have a high placement rate for jobs in the security contractor industry? Have alumni gone on to start their own businesses, secure international contracts, or receive other career advancements as a result of their training?
By considering these factors in addition to the total cost of training, the right provider can be chosen for the best possible outcome in entering the security contractor field.
Legal & Ethical Obligations
The realm of private security contracting is subject to a variety of laws and regulations, and private security providers are charged with the responsibility of understanding and adhering to these legal stipulations. One of the fundamental legal aspects of private security contracting involves obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications to operate legally in one’s area, state, and country.
Beyond licensing and certification, which often include background checks and proof of professional integrity, private security contractors should also take time to study the laws pertaining to their specific security niche. For example, private security companies that specialize in commercial enterprises in certain areas must understand ordinances that regulate indoor smoking, overtime rates, and the right-to-loiter. Similarly , businesses that provide security for healthcare facilities need to be aware of the stipulations regarding patient privacy, while those that assist public venues must understand aging building codes. In every case, it is the contractor’s responsibility to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the legal requirements governing their work.
Additionally, since private security contractors often work closely with governmental agencies, it is imperative that they establish and maintain a rigorous contract process, wherein both parties agree to the terms of the agreement in writing and with signatures. This contract should outline the responsibilities of both parties, any necessary support services (i.e., additional manpower or equipment), payment terms, contract limitations, confidentiality agreements, or other relevant limitations. These contracts both serve to protect clients and to safeguard the company itself from later lawsuits.
Careers in Private Security Contracting
With the growth of the global security industry and the particular need for trained professionals, there are a wide variety of career opportunities available to individuals who have completed private security contractor training. Security contractors may work in both domestic and international settings. For example, government agencies and security companies may hire contractors to provide a variety of services, such as planning and organization of special events, or protection of community leaders. Government positions in many spheres, such as intelligence agencies, law enforcement, or security of government sites, are commonly available. Many contractors are hired to work for large corporations or non-profit organizations, and are expected to provide services for their facilities or in relation to their business travel or special events. Intelligence or investigative agencies may also provide employment and security contractors have a wide variety of clients who may hire them for everything from risk assessment, crisis planning, or other issues related to their homes or facilities.
Skills Maintenance & Continuing Education
Continuous education and skill development is essential for private security contractors at every stage of their career. The nature of the field requires practitioners and potential employees to remain vigilant against ever-evolving threats and challenges. The most up-to-date coursework and certifications help both managers and individual providers access the most advanced tactical techniques and knowledge available.
Beyond tactical knowledge, ongoing training fosters the soft skills that private security contracting companies need managers to have. Comprehensive coursework also allows providers to develop management experience , and educational organizations often offer professional certifications that can validate those skills to potential employers.
In addition to information that can be critical in a crisis, continuous education strengthens the legal knowledge of private security contractors. Some of the most catastrophic encounters many companies face are the result of a lack of understanding of local laws and regulations. Many courses address the details of those laws and the best ways to act within them. Continued legal education benefits potential clients as well, as it shows that providers are committed to staying one step ahead.
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