SS-025 Ver 1.0 (May 23)

1. Overview

2. Process methodology

In the event of a threat level being increased, it may be necessary, as instructed by the Client to implement various Bag search methods. This may involve the searching of Bags prior to entry to the Clients business. The main purpose of a search is to act as a "deterrent" to anyone who is inclined to bring a prohibited item into the premises. The second is to offer the customer a level of assurance and confidence that the environment is safe.  Bag Searches can be carried out either individually or as part of a range of Security tactics.   Prior to implementing this procedure, agreement must be sought in writing from the Client after reviewing the analysis table below

The principles of Deter, Detect, Delay and Response are to be used in response to any threat or unlawful act against the Event. 

Deter

Detect

Observe Security infrastructure and provide a presence of proficient Security personnel

By providing Security personnel that are trained and that are capable of detecting. Attempts by person/s to gain access, and to detect the presence of prohibited items being taken in the Clients premises

Delay

Any person seeking un-authorized entry into a restricted area by the presence of a physical barrier such as static Security guards locks, seals etc,.

Response

Effective neutralization of an attempt to commit an unlawful act against the operation requiring the attendance of Security or other personnel and the Police with both means and powers of denial and arrest

 Approach to adopting a Bag search operation

Advantages

• Deterrent
• Public confidence
• Overt act of Security measures
• Positive press coverage 

Disadvantages

• Puts officers at risk
• Requires signage (cost)
• Risk of accusations
• Physical Assault
• Sexual Assault
• Discrimination
• Brand damage
• Presents an easy target
• (Queues / Crowded area
• Resource intensive
• Training
• Consistent approach at all levels
• Queues
• Lack of privacy
• Risk of conflict
• Customer complaints  

Considerations

• Intelligence led searches
•  100% Search policy
• Police support
• Monitored by CCTV
• Signage
• Profiling
• Searches to include Retailers / Contractors not just public
• Dedicated Team of Search Officers
• Reduction of Entrance points Search points with minimal pinch points
• Queue system
• Prohibited items list required Agreed approach to deal with refusals
• Actions need to be agreed on what happens in the event of a positive find
• Actions to be taken in the event of illegal items being found
• CCTV Coverage required
•  Advance notification displayed

Equipment required

• CCTV
• Body Cameras
• Protective Gloves
• Radio
• Signage
• Amnesty bins
• Table
• Privacy Screens 

Important Points to remember

• Be polite
• Obtain a person’s permission prior to search
• Be thorough
• Get clients written instruction in advance to any search regime being undertaken Get the person to move items out of / around the bag so a thorough search can take place
• Wear protective gloves
• Wear a switched on Body Camera at all times
• STAY SAFE 

Always 

Never 

• Touch anything inside the bag
• Search without a colleague in attendance
• Search without a Body Camera being switched on, on your person or a colleague that is overseeing the process
• Take unnecessary risks 

• All points above must be considered and agreement / instruction must be sought in writing from the Client  before proceeding
•  Search locations to be identified in advance and notated on plan – Minimum of 1 X Male, 1 X Female, 1 X Queue Management Officer
•  Identify any Public Rights of way and detail in the plan
• Agreement must be sought as to whether access can be denied
•  Prohibited items list to be agreed upon with the Client in advance
• Suitable queuing system must be set up 

• Plan should include an express lane for those without bags
• Condition of entry must be agreed by the Client, supported by a script Signage notifying of search must be in place
• All officers must be trained
• CCTV coverage must be in place
• Agreed list of prohibited items must be supplied by the Client 
• An agreed script to deliver to the customer i.e. Good Morning / Afternoon I am (Your name) from (Centre Name) Security. I am requesting that prior to entry to the centre / building you agree to your person / bag be searched. If you do not agree to this request you will not be permitted entry. The reason for this is, enhanced security measures during the current raised security level. Do you have any objections? 

Security Services

Conducting Bag Searches

Transition

Confidential & Proprietary | 2024 CBRE Inc.