New Zealand’s peak private security sector body, the New Zealand Security Association (NZSA) has launched a new Advanced Security Officer training programme.
“Higher-risk security work demands skills beyond a CoA [Certificate of Approval],” states the announcement. “NZSA’s five-day Advanced Security Officer (ASO) Training Programme, incorporating citizen’s arrest, helps security professionals build the practical skills and confidence needed for demanding situations.”
The new training programme follows the publication of NZSA’s Citizen’s Arrest, Detention, Restraint and Duty of Care Good Practice Guideline, and is designed to help security personnel understand the law, assess rapidly changing situations and respond in a way that protects everyone involved.
“Security personnel must understand both the extent and the limits of their authority. Our new guidance and training give employers and their teams a clear framework for putting the enhanced powers into practice responsibly.”
“A citizen’s arrest should only be undertaken when it is lawful, necessary, proportionate and safe, and by security personnel who have the appropriate training and demonstrated competency. The objective must always be to achieve a lawful, proportionate and safe outcome for everyone involved—including security personnel, retail workers, customers, members of the public and the person being detained,” stated NZSA Chief Executive Gary Morrison.
The training places strong emphasis on decision-making, communication, de-escalation, proportionality, physical safety and the welfare of any person being detained.
“Good intentions are not enough in a high-risk situation,” Mr Morrison said.
“Security personnel must understand both the extent and the limits of their authority. Our new guidance and training give employers and their teams a clear framework for putting the enhanced powers into practice responsibly.”
Developed with industry experts, the hands-on programme covers:
- Legal powers, risk assessment and decision-making
- De-escalation and safe disengagement
- Citizen’s arrest, detention and proportionate force
- Safe intervention, restraint and welfare monitoring
- Teamwork, Police handover, evidence and reporting
The programme features scenario-based assessment, with pre-assessment, certification and ongoing competency maintenance built into it. Successful participants will receive a distinctive certification to wear and display alongside their CoA.
Upcoming courses will be delivered in Epsom, Auckland, from 8am to 4pm on the following dates:
- 9–13 November
- 23–27 November
- 30 November–4 December
Prices are $1,250 + GST (NZSA members) and $1,500 + GST (Non-members).
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