Crowd Control Refresher Course

Licenced security guards in Queensland employ various crowd control methods in line with the Security Providers Act 1993. These include techniques to de-escalate situations, proactive monitoring of crowds, setting physical boundaries, and establishing orderly queuing. Guards also adhere to the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) rules to manage potential alcohol-related issues. They are equipped with training in emergency evacuation procedures and crisis management. They ensure adherence to venue capacities and importantly, security guards use non-aggressive communication to maintain crowd order, resorting to reasonable force only when necessary.

The Office of Fair Trading in Queensland, requires that holders of a security licence participate in refresher training every three years. Here are some reasons why this is necessary:

• Updating Knowledge: The nature of security work can evolve rapidly, with new technologies, tools, and methodologies being developed and implemented all the time. Refresher training ensures that you stay up-to-date with these developments.
• Legal Changes: The legal and regulatory landscape can change, with new laws or regulations affecting how security work is done. Refresher training can help you stay compliant with these changes.
• Maintaining Competency: As with any profession, regular training and practice are important for maintaining skills. Refresher training ensures that you continue to meet the competency standards required by the security industry.
• Industry Standards and Best Practices: The security industry continually improves and updates its best practices, and refresher courses help security professionals to stay current with these best practices.
• Public Safety: Given the nature of the work, security personnel often have a duty of care to the public. Regular training can help ensure that this duty is fulfilled in the most effective and safest way possible.

The difference between a security officer and a crowd controller in Queensland, is largely based on the nature of their duties and the context in which they operate.

• Security Officer: A security officer is typically responsible for protecting a particular place or person. This can involve a wide range of tasks, such as patrolling properties, monitoring surveillance systems, responding to alarms, and potentially dealing with lawbreakers. Security officers may work in a variety of contexts, such as businesses, residential areas, schools, and government buildings.
• Crowd Controller: A crowd controller, on the other hand, specializes in managing crowds, often at large public events or at venues such as nightclubs or concerts. They are responsible for maintaining order, preventing violence, assisting people, and potentially refusing entry to individuals who may pose a threat to the safety or enjoyment of others.

In Queensland, both security officers and crowd controllers are required to hold a license issued by the Office of Fair Trading, part of Queensland Government. The type of license required (security provider license) is determined by the specific duties an individual will be performing.