What is the purpose of security training for PSOs?

The purpose of security training for Protective Security Officers (PSOs) centers on equipping them with the knowledge necessary to identify risks and effectively respond to incidents. This foundational aspect is critical because PSOs often operate in environments that pose various threats to safety and security.

Training typically covers threat assessment, situational awareness, and incident response protocols, enabling officers to recognize potential security breaches or hazardous situations. This preparation allows them to take appropriate actions to mitigate risks, ensuring both their safety and the safety of the public, property, or assets they are tasked with protecting.

While knowledge of weaponry, personnel management, and physical fitness can play roles in a PSO's overall effectiveness, the core focus of their training is fundamentally about risk awareness and incident response. This distinction highlights the priority given to a proactive security mindset over other skill sets that, while important, are not the primary focus of PSO training.