It is truly tragic that a preponderance of deadly incidents involving security officers was apparently necessary to receive attention from the national media, when organizations such as the IFPO and ASIS have been pushing for advanced education, training and legislation for decades. That said, The Chicago Tribune staff is to be praised for its efforts and hopefully, their study is the influence needed to enact real change in the industry. -- IFPO.
By Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Tribune investigated shootings by security guards. Here's what we found.
Little to no oversight
Unlike police officers, who in recent years faced widespread and intense scrutiny over excessive force, actions by private security guards have received little attention and oversight.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees security guard licensing but has established no guidelines for use of force. A handful of states require armed guards to pass a mental health examination, but Illinois is not among them. Guards here must undergo a background check, but the state has discretion to grant anyone a license.
Some guards in Illinois don’t face any oversight at all. Small forces of fewer than five guards that provide in-house security don’t need to be licensed.
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Scant training for risky job
Training requirements for guards in Illinois are extremely limited. Even barbers must complete more classroom time.
Unarmed guards must complete 20 hours of training while armed guards need 40 hours, half of which must focus on firearms. By contrast, Chicago Police recruits spend six months in the academy followed by three months of training on the street.
Despite scant training, guards often are put in dangerous situations. In 2016, 33 guards in the U.S. were slain on the job, according to federal data. In Illinois, at least 12 guards have been shot in recent years, 6 fatally.
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The International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) is dedicated to providing meaningful and cost effective security training for security guards and protection officers.
We believe that education is a necessary and essential part of professional security training and the security officer’s background. IFPO serves individuals, security companies, and organizations that have their own private security staff. Our students and members benefit from the recognition and standing that the prestigious IFPO certification conveys.
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International Foundation for Protection Officers Mission Statement
Mission Statement Part I.
The International Foundation for Protection Officers provides professional learning opportunities for security practitioners, to impart the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to maximize job performance and enhance career potential.
Purpose: to make a positive difference in the quality of the participant’s job performance and elevate the professional status of students who partake of our learning opportunities.
Business: to supply committed security practitioners with a quality education to help achieve their highest potential and provide recognized accreditation for successful completion of educational goals.
Values: commitment, integrity, responsibility, and standards of excellence, provide the platform that supports our journey as we pursue our mission.
Vision Statement
Commitment to Excellence: To be the recognized center of excellence and primary provider of education and training products and services to the security industry.
Mission Statement Part II.
“The International Foundation for Protection Officers is committed to the support and professional development of protection officers and supervisors. Through advocacy, promoting training standards, and providing accessible training, education and certification opportunities, we seek to enhance their professional standing as well as increase and diversify the value of the vital services they provide.”
