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BE COMPETENT FOR A MULTI-FUNCTION LICENCE: QLD SECURITY LICENCE APPLICATION

BE COMPETENT FOR A MULTI-FUNCTION LICENCE: QLD SECURITY LICENCE APPLICATION

A career in the security services industry can be a rewarding career for life. Qualified security guards and personnel are always in high demand as our society becomes more and more security and safety conscious.  So there is no better time than right now to get the training you need to enter your new career in security services.

To give you a bit more of an idea, let’s briefly look at what’s covered in both Certificate II and Certificate III in Security Operations – the CII / CIII Security Program Package.

Completion of this Program is available via the Recognition of Prior Learning – RPL Learning Pathway. Please note: Full completion of the Provide First Aid and Responsible Service of Alcohol Courses is required, as they do not meet RPL requirements.

CII / CIII Security Program Package

1) Certificate II in Security Operations SoA

CPP20212 Certificate II in Security Operations SoA is a mandatory requirement for entry into the security services industry. You will need this qualification as a minimum to apply for the Qld Security Class 1 License with full completion of CPP30414 CIII in Security Operations.

2) HLTFA311A Provide First Aid – CPR and first aid skills are also a mandatory requirement to enter into this industry. Security guards do more than just keep an eye on things and protect the public and premises. They also help save lives on occasion, and CPR and first aid training is a must.

Unarmed Security Officer and Crowd Control – This enables course participants to learn interpersonal communication skills and security skills for unarmed security guards.

3) Certificate III in Security Operations

CPP30411 Certificate III in Security Operations involves training for a multi-function license, including:

  • Unarmed security services
  • Crowd control.   Completed in the CPP20212 SoA Program
  • Monitoring
  • Bodyguard
  • C.I.T. Officer
    • Learn enhanced interpersonal and supervisory people skills and communication for security and safety.
    • For the skills and knowledge to excel in supervisory leadership and security license function responsibilities, you will undergo the mandatory Qld Security Class 1 License application.

4) SITHFAB002 Responsible Service of Alcohol – A requirement for crowd control security staff working on liquor licensed premises and events. You will learn how to monitor customer behaviour and be equipped to quell any trouble before it starts.


Train With Regal Security & Industry Training

Regal Security offer the very best security services training in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast. Our security courses are of the highest quality and nationally recognised training. All our instructors are highly skilled and trained security professionals who don’t just teach the industry: They have all worked in this industry.

Along with Certificates II & III in Security Operations, we offer a vast array of exceptional programs and courses in the security industry.

For more detailed information, be sure to visit the program and course section of our website.

STEPS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE IN AN EMERGENCY!

STEPS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE IN AN EMERGENCY!

Everyone should take 5 minutes to read this. It may save your life or a loved one’s life. In daylight hours, refresh yourself of these things to do in an emergency situation… This is for you, and for you to share with your wife, your children, & everyone you know. It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do!

2. Learned this from a tourist guide. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse,
DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you… Chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you, and he will go for the wallet/purse.
RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back taillights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won’t see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their hair, or making a list, etc.
DON’T DO THIS!) The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go. AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE..

If someone is in the car with a gun to your head DO NOT DRIVE OFF, Repeat:
DO NOT DRIVE OFF! Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car. Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it. As soon as the car crashes bail out and run. It is better than having them find your body in a remote location.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:

A.) Be aware: look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat.
B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door.
Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women
are attempting to get into their cars.

C.) Look at the car parked on the driver’s side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the shopping centre, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out. IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot. This is especially true at NIGHT!)

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN!
The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; and even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN, Preferably in a zigzag pattern!

8. Women are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP it may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well-educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked ‘for help’ into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

9. Water scam! If you wake up in the middle of the night to hear all your taps outside running or what you think is a burst pipe, DO NOT GO OUT TO INVESTIGATE! These people turn on all your outside taps full blast so that you will go out to investigate and then attack.

Stay alert, keep safe, and look out for your neighbours!

STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING SAFETY & SECURITY IN RETAIL ENVIRONMENTS – A HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE

STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING SAFETY & SECURITY IN RETAIL ENVIRONMENTS – A HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE

Let’s look at strategies for improving security & safety in retail environments from a holistic perspective.

Retail security and protecting employees, cash and assets can be a sensitive subject. It can be difficult to have a realistic discussion on the subject, especially in the dawn of a critical incident such as robbery or theft. The view from business owners are usually shaped by previous experience, biased media coverage or advice from parties with a vested interest. These preconceptions can work against business owners when looking at ways of effectively reducing risk.

Having our own preconceived views on this subject after combining almost 20 years in the industry, we thought we would look at the challenges from a different perspective.

As a manager on the Gold Coast in a former life I was tasked with some occupational health and safety duties. Whilst some relish the detail and level of paperwork required to run a proper safety procedure, I was not one of them. The thought of conducting endless inspections, submitting compliance reports and forever hounding workers to keep in line had me dry reaching to say the least.

One of the tools I found most practical and helpful in amongst the reams of guidelines and directives was the ‘Hierarchy of Controls’ pictured above. This simple guide provides a range of controls to counteract damage to employees and assets from unsafe conditions or unsafe actions.

Starting with complete removal of the risk, which is the strongest control, the hierarchy works back from here to reduce the cause of the risk to an acceptable level. Obviously, elimination of a risk or danger is the most effective and the first preference when assessing options. Unfortunately this is not always practical or possible. When looking at the risks from crime in retail through the same lens, it becomes possible to provide and rank some of the solutions available.

When gauging the particular control in question it’s important to rank its effectiveness within the band in which it sits. As an example, CCTV, which is almost standard in all business realistically, sits towards the bottom in the engineering category. Whilst being a visual deterrent for petty criminals, CCTV doesn’t pose a barrier for a determined criminal and doesn’t remove or eliminate the targets for criminals. If installed correctly, working and turned on, it provides a potentially good reference for post event analysis. This means that hopefully the police will be able to recover enough usable evidence to catch and convict the offender.

In terms of the ‘HoC’ (this is how I plan on referring to the ‘Hierarchy of Control’ hence forth) CCTV would rate a fair way down the list of options compared to completely eliminating the risk and working back from there. I am by no means suggesting ditch the old CCTV system, up grade maybe, but not throw out. Ideally a functional and effective CCTV system is a critical part of a holistic security system just not the be all and end all.

Working down the ‘HoC’ it’s possible to work through the most appropriate options available. It’s here that I shall include my disclaimer. This isn’t by any means a detailed or exhaustive list of options or what people MUST do. Every business is different and the reality of everyone’s operation dictates certain controls are not possible or appropriate. I do suggest however that business owners should evaluate and challenge the paradigms in place using this type of tool. I often hear when talking to businesses terms like ‘I can’t’, ‘It’s always been this way’ or ‘It’s how we do things’ and wonder if they have asked themselves WHY?

The first of the controls is ‘Eliminate’. By eliminating a risk there is a complete cessation of the dangerous task, removal of the dangerous condition or element. When we think about the threat of robbery completely removing the target of the crime would be the most potent control. Removing all money, drugs or other valuable items from the store certainly meets the criteria of elimination. Is this really possible in this instance? I think the answer would be a resounding NO. By having no stock to steal, not accepting money (which then means no change to be given out!) would lead to a fairly crumby operation, certainly not a profitable one. The next risk that could be eliminated would be the perpetrators of the crimes, people. Closing the shop would mean no customers or bandits coming through the door. With no customers there wouldn’t be much need for staff, which, incidentally would reduce internal theft. Again, I suspect the result would be complete elimination of the robbery risk but a sharp increase in the risk of poverty for the owner.

Every business owners accepts a level of risk by opening their doors to trade. Being that closing the doors and going purely online isn’t really an option for the majority of retail businesses we must look further down the ‘HoC’ to the next level of control, which is Substitution.

Substitution could mean removing cash and only accepting credit card or debit payments for goods. It’s possible to have customers pay online then attend site to collect their purchases. Whilst this is certainly possible it’s quite likely not appropriate. Depending on a variety of factors such as the cost of items, customer demographics and most importantly flexible and good customer service, this isn’t really an option either. It becomes even more remote when you think of substituting pharmaceutical drugs in a Chemist to something not desirable to criminals. It’s unlikely that a customer would accept a bottle of Echinacea pills when what they really wanted Sudafed for their raging, latest edition flu.

Again we see options for substitution, however in the cold light of day these are impractical and potentially harmful to the business. Engineering controls is the next most effective level of control. It’s here that the options open up. There is a abundance of products and services designed to improve security and reduce or negate risk. It’s here that you need to be more discriminating and analytical when selecting the best option or options for your business. Options here include, CCTV, secure cash handling equipment, safes, personal panic alarms, anti jump barriers and security guards etc etc etc.

Whilst each one is designed to reduce risk, some prove more effective then others. As mentioned above, CCTV is a recognized security product and almost ubiquitous in retail environments. However, CCTV has never stopped a serious and determined robbery or theft from occurring. It may have meant the offender was caught shortly thereafter (I stress MAY) but didn’t stop the incident or the trauma and loss it caused. I agree that to some criminals CCTV could be a deterrent however I have never seen any anecdotal evidence to support this. If you have some legitimate supporting information please send it to me! So in this regard it’s helpful to rank your options according to where they fit and how effective they are against preventing an incident.

I have rated the suggestions put forth above in order of how I see them in terms of effectiveness:

  1. Anti Jump Barrier – installed correctly this effectively seals off the POS, cash, valuables and employees. Essentially this type of system can remove the ability to access the target of robbery.
  2. Secure Cash Handling Systems – Intelligent safes, TACC Safes, Self-Serve Checkouts and the Counter Cache Intelligent all control and limit access to cash held onsite. They are difficult to attack and eliminate crimes of opportunity. They also limit internal theft.
  3. Safes – conventional safes can store cash, drugs and other small items of value. When properly locked they can be an extremely difficult targets for criminals.
  4. Security Guard – Having an alert & uniformed presence in the shop provides another set of eyes, a focused and potentially physical barrier to committing crime.
  5. Personal Panic Alarms – Give employees confidence that they can call for help should something happen.
  6. CCTV – Described twice above.

The next, and second last control is titled Administrative Controls. Essentially this refers to developing appropriate safe work methods, documenting set procedures and guidelines and conducting appropriate training. For our particular focus, this can include opening and closing procedures, how tills are balanced and how banking is conducted. Effective procedures and training can be a most effective control against attack. If all employees know exactly what’s expected of them through appropriate training, incidents can be reduced by efficiency alone. Conducting and documenting regular hold up training will not stop a robbery or theft but it may serve to protect employees, reduce trauma and lessen the time a criminal needs to spend onsite. Administrative controls would possibly be most effective against internal loss as opportunity for theft is reduced.  Training employees in documented procedures for balancing and various other tasks reduces the scope to steal and projects the perception that the employer has a tight grip on the business. Grey areas or gaps in key processes are a ‘would be’ thief’s best friend!

This method of control would also include clear signage highlighting the security features utilized by a business. These overt signs advertise the fact that you have robust and active protective systems in place. Highly visible stickers on doors and counters referencing a CCTV system or the fact staff cannot access cash cast doubt in the mind of criminals. The outcome here would be to force criminals to find an easier target.

The last control in the ‘HoC’ is personal protective equipment. This level of control accepts that by using the above controls a risk is still present. Personal protective equipment or PPE is extremely difficult to utilize in a retail environment. A welder using a welding mask to protect from the inevitable welding flash is appropriate and completely necessary. For a retail assistant, Pharmacist or petrol station attendant to wear a bulletproof vest, ballistic helmet and carry a firearm preparing for a violent physical attack occurs is absurd.

It’s clear from the brief description above that once eliminating a potential risk is ruled out, finding effective solutions can be complicated. I’m here to tell you, it doesn’t have to be. Instead of focusing on one of the controls mentioned in the ‘HoC’ it’s not only suggested, but also expected under OH&S legislation that any and all appropriate controls be put into play. For example, reducing the amount of cash held onsite by regular banking reduces the exposure to loss. Adding an anti jump barrier stops someone from getting to the remaining cash and drugs held onsite and protects the POS operator. Installing some sought of cash storage or handling system further limits the exposure to loss. Overseeing all of this with a functioning and effectively placed CCTV system captures events as they take place and allows for post event analysis. Combining all this with appropriate signage selling the story of what measures are in place provides a potent physical and mental deterrent.

You cannot protect against every contingency. I get a lot of ‘what if’ questions and scenarios put to me in the course of my discussions with small business owners. A lot of the time people’s imaginations run away with them envisaging situations that are statistically possible, however so remote they don’t warrant consideration. Worse still, this obsessing on the worst case scenario actually prevents businesses from investing in good systems that fix a lot of far more likely day to day issues and risks. Preparing for the day Zombies ravage the earth and its inhabitants whilst prudent shouldn’t stand in the way of working on solid and effective retail protection strategies today!

If you would like to ask any questions about the information above or discuss it in further detail, feel free to contact us anytime.

STRESS & EXERCISE

 

Sometimes life gets on top of us, stress levels rise and the simple tasks become a burden.

Our coping mechanisms will make or break us in times of high stress. It is a well known fact that exercise plays a huge role in reducing stress levels which is why the busiest of people just have to have it in their life!

Stress will affect us emotionally and mentally but it has physical affects too that people may believe are unrelated but actually are a direct result.

Some of the physical signs and symptoms of stress can include:

  • Disrupted sleep and fatigue
  • Muscle aches and tension
  • Headaches
  • Affect on appetite
  • Digestive problems
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Nausea and dizziness

Ensuring that you maintain a good level of activity in times of stress will help:

  • Improve the blood flow to your brain, bringing additional sugars and oxygen that may be needed when you are thinking intensely and removing waste products more rapidly.
  • Exercise will cause the release of chemicals called endorphins into your blood stream. These give you a feeling of happiness and positively affect your overall sense of well-being.

Overall, moving will just make you feel better and be able to better cope with any of the life challenges that come your way. As much as you will feel like you just cannot take it on or fit it in, it will be worth it.

THE ADVANTAGES OF VIP SECURITY PROTECTION

THE ADVANTAGES OF VIP SECURITY PROTECTION

VIP security differs from regular crowd control or static security services. With this specialist kind of security, security guards or bodyguards are personally responsible for the protection of a celebrity or person of notoriety.

There can be many reasons why famous people and celebrities might be targeted and need protection:

  • Money
  • Fame
  • Stalking
  • Political aspirations

To name just a few of the common ones.

VIP security services are there to both protect the VIP, while at the same time ensuring fans and other people keep their distance. This kind of security also helps to guarantee at least some semblance of privacy while the celebrity is at home or on location somewhere.

Even if there is no immediate danger, over-enthusiastic fans can also cause concerns when they get too close to a popular VIP, movie star or pop star.

The main advantage of hiring specialist VIP security services is the experience and expertise that comes with the territory.

Regal Elite Protection Squad (R.E.P.S)

The Regal Elite Protection Squad provides exceptional personal security services without compromise. When you choose Regal Security for your VIP protection, your safety is guaranteed in any environment and at all locations.

Groomed for the most sensitive and important roles, our team of security professionals are highly trained in the specialist art of VIP security and, just as importantly, our security guards are equipped with first class interpersonal skills and have immaculate presentation. When you enlist the aid of the Regal Elite Protection Squad, you are not hiring cowboys, but a world class security team of highly trained professionals.

If you are high profile individual or group visiting the Gold Coast or Brisbane areas, get in touch with the local experts at R.E.P.S. Together we will discuss your requirements and formulate a customised security plan to satisfy your needs and guarantee your complete safety for the duration of your stay.

Our services are discreet, professional and first class. All our staff receive ongoing training, coaching and mentoring and are involved in elite tactical training provided by martial arts experts and ex-military personnel.

You are in exceptional hands when you enlist the protect of Regal Security’s Regal Elite Protection Squad.