Why Security Guards are Crucial for Cannabis Facilities

Cannabis and security go hand in hand. The key to success in this industry is having proper security measures in place. This can be done by having proper SOP’s, alarm and camera systems, and security personnel among other things.

The Importance of Security Guards

Why is having proper security personnel on site so important? How is your security guard also your customer service representative? What does the State Police have to do with the security industry? Why should I hire a company instead of in-house security? Can I save money by using 5S Security?

All of these are important questions and allow me to discuss all of these with you. Cannabis is a high-risk business due to the nature of the industry. Whether you are a manufacturer, cultivator, or retail facility, you are dealing with copious amounts of cash and a high valued product. Anyone can put on a security shirt and be a security guard, but in this industry, having armed, specially trained, and experienced professionals is the only route to go.

Security Guard Training

5S Security has a dedicated and diverse team of retired law enforcement professionals geared specifically for cannabis facilities. Having officers who are in proper uniform, visibly armed, and alert always will create a deterrent to those that look to do harm to your facility. Our officers are trained in active shooter situations, threat assessment, firearms safety, and have decades of experience in both the military, and various law enforcement agencies.

Security Guard Roles

Security guards are more than just protecting your facility. At 5S Security, we only hire guards who have excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Security is the first and last person customers will interact with at your facility. When customers feel safe and comfortable with the security on site, they will return. Security guards from our firm are also trained in de-escalation tactics.

Our officers know that the last route you want to go is hands on or using their firearm. De-escalation comes a long way when it comes to situations such as a disgruntled employee, angry customers, rude customers, or even keeping calm in chaos. Our officers support a balance of being friendly and professional, something so important for maintaining a safe, yet friendly environment.

The NJSP Private Detective Unit is the regulating agency for all security guards, agencies, private detectives, and private detective firms in the state of NJ. There are many rules and laws that must always be followed. Our firm is one of the few that has a retired state trooper serving as our compliance officer, to ensure our firm and our officers are in full compliance with all the statues relating to security.

Third-Party vs In-House Security Guards

Why should a cannabis facility outsource their security vs having in house security? Armed security is the preferred way to protect your customers, staff, and products. Many insurance companies are currently not covering the cannabis market. The companies that are insuring cannabis businesses are not fond of having to insure armed guards as well. Some insurance providers may choose not to insure you if you are having in-house armed guards. Another reason to outsource your security guard needs to a company is to relieve you of one more thing to worry about. Our company handles supervision, scheduling, oversight, and ensuring coverage is always provided.

Using our firm will save cannabis businesses tens of thousands of dollars annually. To learn more about our services or to speak with one of our specialists, please visit our website.

How Can Sapphire Risk Help?

Tony Gallo and the team at Sapphire Risk Advisory Group are prepared to help with ensuring installed security is compliant and cost-efficient. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with cannabis industry updates!

Author

Joseph Rodriguez

Joseph Rodriguez is the founder and CEO of 5S Security, LLC. He has an extensive background in law enforcement, military, security, and management experience. He served in the air force providing security for more than 5 years and did 20 years with the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department serving in various units, including but not limited to patrol, court security, crime scene investigations, and retired as a supervisor. He is a 2-time recipient of distinguished unit citations and holds certifications in crime scene investigations and hazardous materials.