16 Hour On-the-Job Training Course for Security Guards

This is a 16 hour course that must be completed within 90 days of employment as a security guard. The course provides the student with detailed information on the duties and responsibilities a security guard. Topics covered in this course include the role of the security guard, legal powers and limitations, emergency situations, communications and public relations, access control, ethics and conduct, incident command system, and terrorism. The passing of an examination is required for successful completion of this course. 

1. Role of a Security Guard (1 Hour)

This section introduces the core functions and responsibilities of a security guard. Students learn the purpose of private security, the expectations of the profession, and how guards support safety, prevention, and customer service within their assigned posts.

2. Legal Powers and Limitations (1 Hour)

Students review the legal authority granted to security guards under New York State law. Topics include arrest powers, use of force considerations, detainment limitations, and the importance of operating strictly within legal boundaries to avoid liability.

3. Emergency Situations (1 Hour)

This unit covers how to recognize, respond to, and report emergencies. Students learn protocols for fires, medical incidents, hazardous conditions, evacuations, and other critical events, emphasizing calm decision‑making and proper notification procedures.

4. Communications and Public Relations (30 Minutes)

Students develop effective communication skills for interacting with the public, coworkers, and law enforcement. Topics include verbal professionalism, conflict de‑escalation, radio procedures, and maintaining a positive public image.

5. Access Control (30 Minutes)

This section explains the principles of access control, including verifying identification, monitoring entry points, issuing passes, and preventing unauthorized access. Students learn how access control supports overall site security.

6. Ethics and Conduct (30 Minutes)

Students examine the ethical standards required of security professionals. Topics include integrity, confidentiality, impartiality, professionalism, and maintaining appropriate conduct on and off duty.

7. Report Writing (30 Minutes)

This unit teaches how to write clear, factual, and complete security reports. Students learn proper documentation techniques, incident description structure, and the importance of accuracy and neutrality in written records.

8. Incident Command System (2 Hours)

Students are introduced to the Incident Command System (ICS) and its role in emergency response. Topics include command structure, roles and responsibilities, communication flow, and how security personnel integrate with responding agencies.

9. Terrorism‑Related Topics (4 Hours)

This section provides an overview of terrorism awareness, threat recognition, and preventive measures. Students learn indicators of suspicious activity, target vulnerabilities, and the importance of reporting potential threats to appropriate authorities.

10. Review and Examination (1 Hour)

The course concludes with a comprehensive review followed by a written examination. Students must achieve a passing score to complete the course. One same‑day retest may be offered if needed; failure of the retest requires retaking the full course