Police Powers For Security Officers
What are Police powers for security officers in UK?
Security officers in the UK do not have police powers, meaning they do not have the legal authority to make arrests, detain suspects or carry out searches without consent. However, security officers do have a role to play in supporting the police in maintaining public safety and preventing crime.
In certain situations, security officers may work in close partnership with the police and may be granted specific powers or duties by the police. For example, under the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS), which is administered by the police, certain private security staff may be granted limited powers to help them carry out their duties more effectively. These powers may include:
- Issuing fixed penalty notices for specific offences
- Requesting people to leave a designated area
- Seizing alcohol from underage drinkers
- Requesting a name and address from a person they reasonably suspect has committed an offence
However, these powers are only granted to specific individuals and are subject to strict training and ongoing supervision by the police.
It’s important to note that even when working in partnership with the police, security officers must always act within the law and their organization’s policies. They must also ensure that any actions they take are proportionate to the situation and are carried out in a professional and responsible manner.
What are Closure orders for security officers?
Closure orders are legal orders issued by local authorities or police to close premises or areas that have been associated with disorder or nuisance, and that pose a risk to public safety. Security officers may be involved in enforcing these orders by preventing access to the closed premises or area, and ensuring that the closure is maintained.
Closure orders may be issued for a variety of reasons, including:
Criminal activity – If a premises is being used for criminal activity, such as drug dealing or human trafficking, closure orders may be issued to prevent further criminal activity.
Anti-social behavior – If a premises or area is associated with anti-social behavior, such as excessive noise or violence, closure orders may be issued to prevent further disruption and to protect public safety.
Public health risks – If a premises poses a public health risk, such as due to a fire or structural hazard, closure orders may be issued to prevent any potential harm.
When a closure order is issued, security officers may be responsible for ensuring that the premises or area is closed to the public and that any occupants are removed. They may also be responsible for carrying out periodic checks to ensure that the closure is maintained and that no further criminal activity or anti-social behavior takes place.
It’s important to note that closure orders are a serious measure, and can only be issued in certain circumstances. They must also be authorized by the appropriate legal authorities, such as a court or a local council. Security officers must ensure that any actions they take in enforcing a closure order are carried out within the law and their organization’s policies, and that any use of force is proportionate to the situation.