Requirement of new Security Services and Investigators Act
Effective June 1, security personnel wanting to be licensed to work in Alberta must pass new mandatory security training, called Alberta Basic Security Training. The training is a requirement of the new Security Services and Investigators Act, which came into force last year.
The need for basic training grew out of the understanding security services workers must possess the appropriate social and investigative skills, training or experience to safely and properly perform security work, said the government. It also assures Albertans that security personnel possess the skills to perform their role effectively.
Consistent with other jurisdictions in Canada, the training establishes minimum industry standards that must be met before an individual can be licensed to work in the security industry in Alberta. Topics range from basic security procedures, such as patrol skills and when use of force is acceptable, to conducting effective interviews and preserving and protecting evidence.
The training applies to anyone wanting to work in loss prevention, as a security guard or bodyguard, part of patrol dog services or responding to security alarms. The training is not required for people such as former police officers who have already taken training or who have work experience that meets or exceeds the new standards, said the government.
Educational facilities and private security companies can develop and offer their own basic training if their courses have been approved by Alberta solicitor general and Public Security.
