Is Your Security Company Complying With California Law?
We all know California has some of the most burdensome laws out there. This is even more evident in the security industry. California boasts some of the most pro-consumer laws and regulations in the nation. This can be a good thing for customers and clients.
While many of the well-intentioned laws on the books regarding security services may seem, well, over-reaching… we are all required to abide by them. Axiom Security Services, Inc. always reaches above and beyond to ensure complete compliance with the laws and regulations in this industry.
Some of the most common violations in California;
Security officer’s badges are required to bear a unique number (serial or badge number) that can be used to easily identify each officer. Business and Professions Code 7582.28.
Unfortunately some companies like to cut costs, even if they are violating the law. They will often use generic badges that just say “PRIVATE SECURITY” or the like. The law requires custom badged that have “distinctive wording indicating the name of the licensee” and these badges MUST be approved by the Bureau Chief of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.
All forms of advertisement and almost all documents MUST contain; the licensee’s business name, business address, telephone numbers, and state license numbers, as they appear in the Bureau’s records. Business and Professions Code 7582.20.
This section seems a little extreme. Most professions regulated in California are required to post their license in their place of business and list license numbers on advertisements. Listing the business license number ensures accountability if a client or citizen needs to lodge a complaint with the state. Some unscrupulous companies will use generic “SECURITY OFFICER” patches and badges, without any reference to a company name or license. If one of these employees needs to be later identified, how can they be? How can you even find the company they work for? While this law seems a bit extreme, and some might even say petty… these kind of laws are in place to protect clients and citizens.
Armed officers, carrying either a firearm or baton openly MUST be wearing a distinctive uniform, bearing identifying approved company patches on each arm and an approved badge. Business and Professions Code 7582.27.
This one seems like a no-brainer. If you are carrying an exposed firearm (in a holster), while at work you MUST have a proper uniform on. Violating this section can have huge liability implications against not only the security company, but also the client.
If a security officer is not easily identifiable and they draw their firearm or baton they may not be recognized as a security officer. I don’t know about you… but if some stranger, not wearing a uniform that suggests any type of presence of a security officer, I’m going to assume I am being attacked or robbed. Any actions taken by this “officer” will be called into question. An innocent civilian may produce a firearm or other defensive tool, assuming they are being attacked.
Lastly, it is illegal to possess a baton in California and also to carry an exposed firearm is a violation of the law. If a security officer is not in a “proper uniform” they are actually violating the law, as they do not enjoy the exemptions to the law that protects them while carrying on duty.
It’s really sad that most companies, including many of my previous employers use generic badges. I wish more companies would focus on compliance and the law. It puts us in a compromising position if we were to be investigated
Are security companies required to provide shelter for all elements when it comes to weather clean drinking water and access to restrooms?
Generally, yes. The law looks at practically. Is it practical to have on site, and such. It generally is practical to bring in portable shade and shelters, potable water coolers and hand washing stations, and portable toilets. Contacting CAL-OSHA might be a good place to start with and see if they can offer any assistance to your employer in ensuring compliance with the law.