Physical Intervention For Door Supervisors: The Don’ts

Whilst Door Supervising is generally considered a safe and sociable role, there will be times, however, when the job will require you to diffuse difficult situations. During these times, safety is the number one priority, not only for yourself acting in the role but for the innocent bystanders standing around you. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings.

Believe it or not, when situated outside a venue, there are numerous hazards that could cause serious injury and even death when a fight breaks out. The edge of a road curb, for instance, a passing car, a bottle or glass lying on the pavement. Violence can escalate very quickly. So, when it does, how do you deal with it?

As a security operative, physical intervention should only be used as a last resort and not be an immediate response to a threat. But when you find yourself without any options and are forced to use them, what shouldn’t you do? Let’s explore the don’ts below.

Choke holds

Holds which are considered ‘high risk’ or ‘harmful’ should be avoided at all costs. These would include neck holds, where a significant amount of pressure applied could have an adverse effect on breathing and circulation. Also, any damage to the spine or lower back could be the result of an overly forceful hold.

Positional restraint and asphyxia

This type of restraint will cause asphyxiation, a state or process of being deprived of oxygen, which can cause unconsciousness or suffocation and even death! This usually occurs when weight is applied to a person’s torso from a ground restraint. Just imagine the number of fights witnessed that end up on the floor. This just goes to show the level of risk and danger involved when a fight occurs.

Remember, as human beings, we are all susceptible to being overrun by our emotions, and it’s these very emotions that can lead to danger and, ultimately, regret – probably the worst emotion of all.

So, working as a security operative, it is always important to be safe and maintain a clear and present mind.

How to work in the security sector

If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain an SIA Licence.

To obtain an SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.

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