SEIU Security Solutions
Better Training
Combined with better wages and benefits, comprehensive training programs can further reduce turnover and develop the skills of high-performing security professionals.
Rigorous employer/union training programs are especially important in today's lax regulatory environment--which sets few standards for security officers--and in failed markets where contractors slash training budgets in order to compete on cost.
For those companies that have made capital investments in security technologies--video monitoring systems, alarm systems, etc.--officer training is critical. Only with capable officers on duty will capital investments in security pay dividends in greater safety and protection.
Case Studies
Security Facts
According to Security Director's Report, even after 13 to 20 weeks on the job, a new officer can only be expected to perform at a 75 percent productivity level. Between the time a security department identifies the need for a new officer and the time the new officer is up and running, an average of $5,575 in expenses may be incurred.
According to Securitas, the world's second-largest security provider, from 2000-2002 there was a 25 percent to 40 percent wage increase among officers in France, Spain and Portugal. Turnover of personnel during the same period decreased from approximately 100 percent to between 20 percent and 50 percent.
New York Safe and Secure
New York Safe and Secure is a comprehensive labor-management training program that prepares officers to meet today's security challenges.This 39-hour program was created by SEIU Local 32BJ in conjunction with the Realty Advisory Board, John Jay College and the Partnership for New York City, a membership organization comprised of 200 CEOs from New York City's top corporate, investment and entrepreneurial firms.
An NYPD sergeant with 22 years experience in private security and law enforcement manages the union's Best Practices Training in Security Project, which is focused on commercial office buildings. The program has been such a success that the union, the NYPD and apartment building owners are creating a similar course to improve security at residential buildings as well.
Chicago's BOMA/Seiu Local 1 Security Officers training Program
In Chicago, SEIU Local 1 partnered with the Building Owners and Managers Association in 2005 to create a training program for security officers. Courses give officers knowledge and experience in the areas most of value to clients:
- Crime Prevention and Anti-Terrorism, taught by the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Officers learn how to identify and deal with bomb threats, suspicious packages and weapons of mass destruction.
- Security Officer 101, taught by officials from the Chicago Police Department. Includes an emphasis on the limitations of security officers and the importance of a professional, productive relationship with local law enforcement professionals.
- Building Evacuation, taught by the Chicago Fire Department. Officers learn the role of a security officer during a building evacuation, as suggested by the city of Chicago protocols for first responders. CPR and First-Aid, taught by the American Red Cross. Officers receive hands-on training in the proper techniques of clearing the airway, mouth-to-mouth and administering chest compressions.
- Customer Service. Teaches how to present a more positive image of client property. Instruction includes how to deal professionally with difficult situations and how to use effective communication skills.
- Observation Skills and Report Writing. Teaches the importance of documentation procedures and incident reporting, a critical skill of the security profession. Officers are taught to write concise, accurate descriptions that can be used in follow-up by law enforcement personnel.
- Basic Computer Skills. Includes using the mouse, creating folders, saving files and drafting a letter using Microsoft Word.
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