Licensing / Training
- All officers must have the appropriate, active “armed private security officer” license, issued through the Utah Department of Occupational & Professional Licensing (DOPL).
- All officers must complete a Utah state and federal background check.
- Unarmed security licensed officers may not have access to a firearm while on duty. This is unlawful conduct.
- Must have completed the required 12 hours of initial training by a certified firearm instructor.
- Must complete (at minimum) a 4 hour semi-annual training and recertification (8 hours yearly).
- The purpose of semi-annual trainings is to ensure the firearm policy is understood, and the officer can demonstrate proficiency with a firearm.
- Semi-annual training costs are covered by the company, however officers must bring their own 120 rounds for the firearms recertification. 60 rounds are needed, and another 60 rounds recommended in case the first attempt results in a failure.
- Officers must pass a written test in addition to the firearm recertification.
- Officers must show competency with their firearm, including proper handling, maintenance/cleaning, and general troubleshooting. An inspection of firearms by the instructor may be ordered to ensure cleanliness and proper care.
- Officers must bring a proper holster which corresponds with their firearm.
Firearms
- Primary duty firearm must be a semi-automatic pistol (no revolvers).
- Primary duty firearm must be an appropriate size and caliber for the user.
- Firearms must be stored in a locked receptacle while not in use.
- DO NOT store your firearm in patrol vehicles.
- Firearms must be stored separately from ammunition.
Holsters
- Holster must be designed for the firearm you carry.
- Holster must fit snugly and securely on your belt.
- Holster must have a trigger guard and retention device.
- Holster should have an easily manipulated thumb break.
- Duty holster must be worn on your strong side.
Ammunition
- Ammunition must be factory ammunition (no reloads for duty use).
- Duty ammunition must be hollow point.
- Ammunition must be properly maintained, and stored separately from your firearm while not in use.
Magazines
- Officers must carry at least one magazine in the firearm, and one additional magazine as a spare.
- It is recommended to carry at least two spare magazines (in addition to the magazine in the firearm).
Firearm use in Security
Firearms are NOT to be used as a means of compliance.
Firearms are NOT to be drawn or discharged for practice, training, or recreation while on duty, except while at an approved training site.
Firearms are NOT to be drawn or discharged as a warning except in the instances listed below.
It is NOT acceptable to discharge your firearm to protect client property.
While on duty, it is not acceptable to remove your firearm from the holster for any reason, including (but not limited to):
- Demonstrations
- Loading or unloading
- Cleaning
- Training/Dry firing/practice draws
Approved use of firearms:
Officers may only draw/discharge firearm if there is an imminent physical threat to the life of the officer, client or third party individual(s).
Officers may only draw/discharge their firearm if the suspect is attempting a felonious act, such as:
- Homicide
- Aggravated Assault
- Rape
- Arson
Off Duty Restrictions
- Security Officers may NOT wear security uniforms, or carry a firearm in the capacity of a security officer while off duty. Uniforms are to be worn only while on duty, or on the commute to/from the contracted site.
- If the off-duty officer chooses to carry a firearm, company preference is that the officer conceal-carries their firearm (which no longer requires a Concealed Firearm Permit in Utah, but is still recommended for state reciprocity).
Transporting your firearm
When transporting your firearm for work, or in general, if you are not carrying the firearm on your person:
- secure the firearm in a locked receptacle.
- DO NOT transport the firearm unsecured in your lap or on the seat.
- Do not store your firearm unattended in your vehicle for extended periods of time.
Liability Coverage
Onsite carries an appropriate liability policy, which covers civil liabilities. If an officer is involved in a shooting, our officers and the company may be held civilly liable. Our policy helps provide coverage to pay claims or defense in court.
Our policy does not cover criminal procedures. If an officer is involved in a shooting and it was not justified, there is a good chance the officer will be dismissed from employment with Onsite, and will need to retain counsel to defend against the criminal charges.
If a Security Officer is involved in a shooting
1. Holster the firearm. Do not place it on the ground, unless ordered to do so by law enforcement.
2. Seek medical attention, even if you’re unharmed.
– you may need medical attention for shock
– immediately contact your supervisor.
– comply with police requests, but do not provide them with a statement until you have an attorney present. This is not because you’ve done anything wrong, but a way to protect you and the company from potential civil and criminal liability. You may tell the police “My company requires me to have an attorney present.”
– do not speak with the media. If they ask for a statement, state “I can direct you to speak with my supervisor”.
Negligent Discharge
There is no such thing as an accidental discharge – only negligence leads to unintended discharges.
Refer to the 5 basic firearm safety principles whenever handling your firearm.
Ensure you do not handle the firearm while on duty, it should be prepared in advance at home.
- Holster the firearm.
- Seek medical attention if needed.
- Contact the police.
ALWAYS REMEMBER:
The 5 Basic Principles of Firearm Safety:
The 5 Basic Principles of Firearm Safety:
- Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
- Never point your weapon at anything you’re not willing to destroy.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot.
- Keep the safety engaged on your weapon until you’re ready to shoot.
- Know your target and what’s beyond.
