Can a PPO Train its Security Guards?
Yes, a PPO can train its security guards as well as security guards from other companies and people who want to be a security guard, but don’t have jobs yet. However, in order to train the guards to don’t work for the PPO, the PPO needs an additional training certification from the BSIS.
PPOs Must Provide Use of Force Training to New Hires
There is no grandfather clause in the new Power to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force training regulations, which come into effect either October 1, 2023 or January 1, 2024. The Use of Force training requirement during an audit will be based upon the date of hire, not when the guard card was issued.
Here are some examples:
New Use of Force Training Required
Jose is a security guard at Securitas. Jose got his guard card in 2022 when he joined Securitas. In April 2024, he gets a new job at Garda World. Jose’s training is now incomplete. Jose must take the new Power to Arrest and Use of Force training. However, his guard card is still valid.
New Use of Force Training Not Required
Jiao is a security guard at Allied Universal Services. She got her guard card in 2022 when she joined Allied Universal Services. She remains employed by Allied Universal Services for the next 10 years. She does not need to take the new Power to Arrest and Use of Force training as her date of hire was before October 1, 2023. She will get 2-hours of use of force training during each annual continuing education course.
Security Guard Training Records
A guard’s current employer is always 100% responsible for the employee’s training records. Training that did or did not happen at a previous employer is not considered during an audit. What matters during an audit is what guard training the current employer can prove to the BSIS.
A PPO is required to keep training records for any security guards that they employ. A PPO is responsible to make sure their security guards have completed their required security guard courses per California regulations, including yearly refresher records. A PPO can be fined or have their PPO license revoked by the BSIS if the private patrol operator’s security guards haven’t met all their course requirements. You should retain the education records for 2 years after a security guard leaves your company.
What should I Read Next?
- For information on whether to register as a Private Security Employer or Private Patrol Operator, read How to Determine if You’re You a PSE or PPO.
- For tips on choosing another company to train your guards, read How to Select a Security Guard Training Provider.