Under what circumstances can a security officer use force?

The use of force by a security officer is primarily justified in situations where there is a threat of imminent danger. This means that when a security officer perceives an immediate threat to themselves or others, they are trained to take necessary action to protect life and ensure safety. The concept of imminent danger refers to circumstances where harm is likely to occur unless action is taken promptly. This aligns with the principle of self-defense and the duty of care that security officers have towards the public and their colleagues.

In contrast, while maintaining control over unruly patrons is an important aspect of a security officer's role, force must be appropriately calibrated to the situation and other de-escalation techniques should be prioritized. Enforcing company policies is crucial for a security officer as well, but this usually involves verbal warnings and reminders rather than the application of force. Additionally, resolving minor disputes typically calls for conflict resolution skills rather than physical intervention, as these situations can often be handled through communication and mediation. Therefore, the correct application of force is limited to circumstances where there is an immediate risk to health or safety.