Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Massachusetts

With 50 cities and 301 towns, Massachusetts sure is a big state to serve and protect. And fact is, there are only a few people willing to take the job. Security guards are probably one of the most important work in preserving peace and harmony in any state. Despite all the puns about this profession, security has played an important role for business owners and other establishments. Massachusetts has regulated the requirements that an applicant must meet not only that they private companies added more requirements when it comes to training and qualifications.  

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts as it is also called, does not require any license to become an unarmed security guard however if you choose to apply as an armed security officer, a license to carry firearm is required. The Watch Guard Patrol Agency offers the firearms training and each applicant is expected to pass. Besides the firearms training, basic requirement to become an armed security guard is also mandated.

The basic requirements for applying as an armed security guard are as follows:

• Applicants must a resident of the United States or a registered resident alien.
• Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
• Applicants must have a Massachusetts State driver’s license and should be valid.
• Applicants must be in good physical condition.
• Applicants must pass the background check as well as drug testing.
• Applicants must not be convicted of any crimes or fraud.
• Applicants must have no mental instability.
•   Applicants must be able to communicate clearly and efficiently.
• Applicants must be free from any drug or alcohol addiction that can make him incompetent in his work.

In addition to the basic requirements, armed security officers must undergo extensive security guard training in a wide range of professional operations such as:

• Crisis management
• EMS Certification
• Firearms training and licensing
• Operational leadership
• Advanced telecommunications

Armed security officers are also required to complete 8 hours of instruction on gun safety law and laws regarding lethal force. They are trained to be prepared for responding efficiently to any security threat on premises, where in they are legally qualified to use armed weapons as needed in the event of any criminal activity. They are also trained to protect the public by conducting on site surveillance, assessing potential threats and other criminal activities that might be involved.

Armed guards are also given training on proper arrest procedure as well as other legal procedures. Firearm training in marksmanship, safety, cleaning and storage and the Massachusetts firearm law are only a few of the other trainings that an armed officer might be required. All of these are needed in order to have an approved license for armed security officers.

Sources:

http://bostonnewenglandsecurityguardprotectiveservices.com/2011/06/02/armed-security-guards-officers-in-massachusetts-new-england.aspx