Despite the lack of a full understanding from businesses and security personnel about their critical relevance, security post orders form the backbone and foundation of any professional security operation. As a security planner for a special event, you would wish to enhance the security in a more precise and professional manner. Comprehensive post orders guide command structure, ensuring security teams and personnel deployed are accurate, consistent, and professional.
At Shergroup, we have developed robust post-order systems that have protected countless clients across the UK. This guide follows you through everything you need to know about security post orders, their purpose, and how to effectively implement and practice them.
What Are Security Post Orders?
Security post orders or post standing orders are instructions that delineate specific tasks, processes, and responsibilities for security personnel assigned to specific locations. They are detailed instructions that provide direction for specific duties, responsibilities, and procedures that must be executed. These detailed and refined instructions are based on the nature and needs of the site assigned to security personnel.
In security, post orders capture everything that needs to be done, such as regular patrols, plan reviews for probable incidents, and client communications. Orders change the generic security officer training into targeted operational training for the specific locations, empowering the security officer’s role on every security detail.
Why Post Orders Are Essential to Security Operations
Well-structured post orders enhance clarity and precision regarding responsibilities to be performed by security officers. Lack of defined post orders leads to erratic performance of security functions, ineffective communication, and increased risk of security gaps that may compromise the safety of the assets and personnel on-site.
What Items Are Included in Security Post Orders?
Well-defined security post orders encompass several key components. Understanding what post orders should contain assists users in understanding their benefits and ensures that security providers formulate succinct orders.
Site-Specific Information and Access Control
Property Layout and Key Areas |
- Comprehensive site and floor plans
- Markings of emergency exits and assembly areas
- Identification of critical or sensitive zones
- Access control and security checkpoints
- CCTV camera and monitoring station designations
Access Control Procedures |
- Special identification for listed authorized and approved personnel
- Controlled sign-in and management of guests
- Holders of keys and their corresponding information
- Procedures for access after working hours
- Access and parking for vehicles
Daily Operational Procedures
Routine Patrol Assignment Instructions |
- Time and specific route for patrols
- Security inspection assignments
- Schedules for testing equipment
- Procedures for reporting incidents
- Control room communications
Monitoring and Surveillance Duties |
- Responsibilities for CCTV oversight
- Management of alarm systems
- Operation of access control systems
- Regular checks of security equipment
- Reporting and logging tasks
Emergency Response Procedures in Post Orders
Emergency response procedures enabling security operatives to respond to specific emergencies while deploying detailed security measures need to be defined in the post-order security documents.
Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
Fire Emergency Response |
- Active supervision of alarm signal response activities • Management of evacuation pathway • Managing participants at an assembly area • Liaison with fire service • Reporting of incidents after they occur
Medical Emergency Protocols |
- Procedures of response to first aid • Access of emergency services • Clinics and hospitals with their pertinent addresses and directions • Event report form • Sending of messages to emergency contacts
Security Incident Management
Theft and Vandalism Response |
- Immediate reaction and action to control the situation • Preservation of evidence • Reporting to the police • Management of witnesses • Supporting documents for insurance claims
Suspicious Activity Reporting |
- Active and passive confirmation of suspicious behaviors • Methods of observation and documentation • Communication with officers of the law • Procedures for advising the client • Define actions after the report
Client Specific Requirements and Special Instructions
Every security post has distinct features that necessitate particular methods. Professional post orders cater to these requirements effectively.
Operation-Specific Protocols
Health Care Facility Security
- Patient privacy obligations
- Screening protocols for visitors
- Safeguarding medical instruments
- Protective measures for drug storage
- coordination of prehospital emergency medical services
Corporate Office Security
- Proactive measures for key personnel risks
- Handling of sensitive materials
- Coordination of information technology security
- Controls for meeting room access
- After-hours business operations protocols
Retail Security
- Measures to prevent retail theft
- Security measures for cash management
- Customer service integration
- Coordination of loss prevention
- Procedures for employee security
Unique Considerations for Special Events
Crowd Control
- Monitoring of venue utilization
- Management of waiting lines
- VIP security
- Evacuation coordination
- Considerations for public relations
Standards for Communication and Current Protocols
To ensure operational security success, effective information flow is paramount. Communication and reporting protocols, including information flow and feedback, must clearly be defined in post orders.
Internal Communication Systems
Control Room Communications |
◦ Radiotelephone communication methods
◦ Regular assessment check-in intervals
◦ Reporting timelines for incidents
◦ Communication priorities for emergencies
◦ Equipment malfunction reporting
Shift Handover Procedures |
◦ Briefing for incidents
◦ Reporting status of equipment
◦ Reporting evolving situations
◦ Transfer of critical information
◦ Protocols for documentation transfer
External Communication Requirements
Client Reporting |
◦ Summary for daily activities
◦ Notification procedures for incidents
◦ Reports on operations weekly
◦ Reviews on performance monthly
◦ Security assessments every year
Coordination of emergency services |
◦ Protocols for police notifications
◦ Procedures for liaison with fire services
◦ Coordination of services with the ambulance
◦ Communication with local authorities
◦ Communication with media— guidelines
Legal and Compliance Requirements
Post orders for security operations must be structured to observe the requirements of relevant UK laws and regulatory compliance standards in the given sector.
Safeguarding Sensitive Information and Privacy Issues
GDPR Compliance |
- Processing and handling of personal data
- Regulations for overseeing CCTV surveillance
- Policies for document retention
- Response plans for identified data breaches
- Safeguarding defined individual rights
Security Industry Authority (SIA) Requirements |
- Procedures for verifying licenses
- Standards for professional etiquette
- Documentation of training sessions
- Professional training and education
- Compliance and surveillance of other regulations
Health and Safety Obligations
Protocols for Safety in the Workplace |
- Procedures for the assessment of risks
- Specifications for personal protective apparatuses
- Regulations about working in isolation
- Reporting of accidents
- Safety assessment of instruments
Modern Technology in Post-Instruction
As modern technology rapidly evolves, contemporary security operations are increasingly integrating sophisticated technology, necessitating a comprehensive inclusion of digital systems and equipment in post orders.
CCTV and Surveillance |
- Protocols for Camera Operation
- Management of Recording Systems
- Footage Preservation of Incidents
- Systems Maintenance Schedule
- Reports on Technical Problems
Access Control Technology |
- Operation of Electronic Lock Systems
- Management of Card Readers
- Protocols of the Biometric Systems
- Backup Procedures for the Systems
- Management of User Access Privileges
Digital Reporting and Documentation
Reporting of Incidents by Electronic Means |
- Procedure for Completion of Digital Forms
- Submission of Photographs and Other Evidence
- Notification Systems for the Detection of Events
- Protocols for Distribution of Report
- Backup of Data and Security Procedures
Avoiding the Common Errors of Post Order
By knowing the likely and common errors, your security post orders would be more effective and comprehensive.
Preventing Unauthorized Post Abandonment
Post-abandonment is a challenge that all security officers face as a result of working conditions, timeframe, or scope of work. For effective management, post orders should provide:
Authorized Break Procedures |
- Time and duration of breaks
- Attendance by relief officers
- Spontaneous coverage
- Obligation to alert superiors
- Records to be kept
Emergency Situations |
- Permitted post-abandonment
- Post-abandonment notification procedures
- Post-reoccupation procedures
- Reporting procedures for incidents
- Procedure for communication with client
Lack of Clarity and Insufficient Detail
Recurring Issues |
- Instructional phrases that are overly general
- Absence of emergency contact details
- Outdated site information
- Insufficient training integration
- Poorly arranged and unsystematized documentation
Corrective Actions |
- Review and post order updates
- Defined and detailed instruction
- Unified directories with detailed contacts
- Regular site assessments
- Improved document design
Integration of the General Guard Security Services
Post orders must interface with general guard security services to ensure that there are no coverage blind spots.
Multi-Site Coordination
Consistent Standards |
- Procedures are set for operations.
- Reporting is done the same way for all sites.
- Consistent approaches for dealing with emergencies.
- Unified systems for communication.
- Management oversight is centralized.
Site-Specific Adaptations |
- Unique requirements for the site.
- Protocols for the specific client.
- Taking the environment into account.
- Compliance with local laws and regulations.
- Considerations for integration with the community.
Best Practices for Post Order Implementation
Implementing best practices for post orders requires systematic processes and a persistent focus on quality.
Training and Orientation
Comprehensive Training Programs |
- Orientation at the site and for specific posts.
- Familiarization with post orders.
- Emergency and equipment drills.
- Training on the equipment.
- Regularly scheduled refresher training.
Monitoring Performance |
- Competency evaluations are done regularly.
- Systems for collecting feedback.
- Planning and implementing the improvement of performance.
- Recognition and rewards.
- Opportunities for development with no set limits.
Regular Review and Updates
Scheduled Reviews |
- Operations reviewed monthly.
- Reviews are done on a quarterly basis comprehensively.
- Complete updates on an annual basis.
- Procedures for revisions during emergencies.
- Integration of feedback from the client.
Procedures for Updates |
- Systems for notifications of changes.
- Requirements for updates on training.
- Control of versions of the supporting documents.
- Control over distribution.
- Verification of implementation.
The Strategic Advantages of Comprehensive Post Orders
Well-crafted, comprehensive security post orders significantly enhance business value and yield advantages beyond the provision of security services.
Risk Management and Liability Reduction
Professional Standards |
- Reliable service consistency
- Minimization of operational mishaps
- Better emergency readiness
- Active incident response improvement
Professional reputational safeguarding
Legal Protection |
- Diligence documentation
- Due compliance
- Standards of the profession evidence
- Risk mitigation evidence
- Support documentation for insurance claims
Obtain Operational Efficiency and Control of Cost
Resource Waste Reduction |
- Deployment of personnel streamlined
- Reduced costs in training
- Reduction in operational holdups
- Enhanced client contentment
Elevating Security Operations Summary: Through Professional Post Orders
Far from mere instructional documents, security post orders embody professional standards, operational mastery, and client commitment, which mark the success of security services. Well-designed post orders not only prevent post abandonment but also ensure comprehensive emergency response, thus forming the foundation of effective security operations.
At Shergroup, we appreciate that each security post has particular requirements, challenges, and opportunities. Our seasoned personnel create comprehensive and bespoke post orders based on industry standards, tailored to meet your operational requirements. Whether for general guard security services for routine safeguarding, or bespoke post orders designed for sophisticated facilities, we go beyond client requirements with our solutions.
You shouldn’t take risks when it comes to your security operations. Reach out to Shergroup today to discover how our professional post-order development services can enhance your security operations, mitigate risks, and provide the consistent and reliable protection your business deserves. Protecting your business is our priority, and our dedicated team is prepared to engage with you to understand your needs and devise strategic post orders that ensure seamless operational efficiency for all your security requirements.
FAQs
What happens when security guards leave their workstation unattended?
Security protocol abandonment needs to be addressed comprehensively within post orders. Defined procedures for breaks, emergency coverage, supervisor notifications, and documentation outlining ongoing security surveillance need to be detailed within the post orders to ensure security coverage at all times.
How frequently should security post orders be revised?
Security post orders should be enforced with operational assessments on a monthly basis, with comprehensive reviews every three months and a complete annual update. Additionally, they should include emergency revisions as necessary to meet shifting operational and security requirements.
Are post orders the same for every type of security service?
Absolutely not. Post orders are to be designed according to the needs of the particular area. Healthcare and retail, corporate and office, and even special events all fall under the same umbrella of general guard services as long as they follow the professional standard.
Do you want to enhance your security operations? Reach out to us at Shergroup for your comprehensive consultation on security post orders and all our professional security services.
