PSIRA Grade D cheat sheet

The Private Security Industry Regulation Act 56 of 2001 establishes PSIRA and regulates security service providers.

Security officers may not perform police functions such as arrest without a warrant unless authorised by law (e.g., citizen's arrest under the Criminal Procedure Act).

Use of force must be reasonable, necessary, and proportionate; deadly force is only justified in self-defence or defence of others against imminent threat of death or serious harm.

Confidentiality: officers must not disclose information obtained during duty except as required by law or authorised by the client.

Corruption and bribery: accepting any gratification to alter performance is a criminal offence under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004.

Discrimination: the Bill of Rights prohibits unfair discrimination; security services must be rendered equally to all persons regardless of race, gender, religion, etc.

PSIRA registration: all security officers must be registered with PSIRA and carry their identity card while on duty.

Duty to report misconduct: officers must report any unlawful conduct by colleagues or clients to the appropriate authorities.

Search and seizure: security officers may search persons or property only with consent or as authorised by specific legislation (e.g., Control of Access to Public Premises and Vehicles Act).

Primary duties: protect life and property, prevent crime, observe and report incidents, and maintain order.

Officers must know and comply with site-specific post orders and standard operating procedures.

Reporting: all incidents, no matter how minor, must be recorded in the occurrence book and reported to the supervisor.

Officers must not leave their post without proper relief or authorisation.

Professional conduct: remain alert, courteous, and impartial; avoid fraternisation with clients or public that could compromise security.

Equipment: maintain and use issued equipment (radio, torch, keys) responsibly; report malfunctions immediately.

Emergency response: follow emergency procedures, assist emergency services, and do not exceed legal authority.

Handover: conduct thorough handover/takeover with outgoing/incoming officer, including keys, equipment, and incidents.

Access control principles: verify identity, authorisation, and purpose before granting entry; use the 'challenge and verify' method.

Visitor management: all visitors must sign in, be issued a visitor pass, and be escorted if required by site policy.

Vehicle control: check driver's licence, vehicle registration, and purpose; search vehicles as per site procedure (with consent).

Patrol techniques: vary routes and times to avoid predictability; use clocking devices or checkpoints where installed.

Observation: use all senses; note unusual sounds, smells, or behaviour; report accurately without assumption.

Patrol safety: maintain communication, never patrol alone in high-risk areas without backup, and use torches in dark areas.

Key control: sign keys in/out, never leave keys unattended, and report lost keys immediately.

Reporting patrols: record all patrols in the occurrence book, noting time, area, and any irregularities.

Emergency priorities: life safety first, then property protection, then restoration of normal operations.

Fire response: raise alarm, evacuate according to plan, call fire services, and only attempt to fight fire if trained and safe.

Medical emergency: assess scene safety, call ambulance, provide first aid if certified, and do not move injured persons unless necessary.

Bomb threat: remain calm, obtain as much information as possible, do not touch suspicious objects, evacuate and call police.

Crime in progress: do not confront armed suspects; observe and report to police, noting descriptions and direction of flight.

Evacuation: know emergency exits and assembly points; assist disabled persons; do not re-enter until declared safe.

Communication: use clear, concise radio procedures; pass accurate information to control room and emergency services.

Occupational health and safety: officers must wear issued protective clothing and use equipment safely; report hazards.

Incident reporting: use the occurrence book for all incidents; reports must be factual, complete, and legible.

Report writing: include who, what, when, where, why, how; avoid opinions and speculation.

Confidentiality of reports: reports are legal documents; do not alter or destroy them; store securely.

Personal safety: maintain situational awareness, keep a safe distance from suspects, and never turn your back.

Hazard identification: report faulty lighting, broken locks, obstructed exits, and other safety risks to supervisor.

Emergency contact numbers: know and keep available numbers for police, ambulance, fire, and site management.