There are some important updates you need to know about regarding your training requirements. Public Act 102-0152, passed in July 2021, brings some changes designed to enhance your skills and preparedness. This article dives deep into these Changes to Illinois Security Training Requirements, explaining what they mean for you in your daily work as a security officer in Illinois.
Understanding Public Act 102-0152
Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand the context. Public Act 102-0152 amends the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004. This act governs the licensing, training, and operations of security professionals in Illinois. The changes introduced by Public Act 102-0152 primarily focus on:
- Enhanced Firearm Training: For security officers authorized to carry firearms, the act mandates a more rigorous training program.
- Flexibility in Training Delivery: The act allows for greater flexibility in how training is delivered, offering options beyond traditional classroom settings.
- Annual Training Updates: All security officers, regardless of firearm authorization, will now undergo annual training to maintain their skills and knowledge.
These changes aim to equip security officers with the necessary skills to excel in their roles and ensure public safety.
Breakdown of Key Changes to Illinois Security Training Requirements:
Let’s get into the specifics of what Public Act 102-0152 means for your training:
1. More Firearm Training for Armed Security Officers:
If you’re a security officer who carries a firearm on the job, this is a significant change. Public Act 102-152 increases the mandatory firearm training requirement from 20 hours to 28 hours. This is in addition to the 20 hour unarmed training requirement. This additional training ensures you’re thoroughly prepared to handle a firearm safely and effectively in various situations.
Illinois licensed armed security officers will also be required to complete an 8-hour firearm refresher course every year, including live fire.
What to expect in the additional 8 hours:
The specific content of the additional training hours may vary depending on the training provider, but it’s likely to cover areas like:
- Advanced firearms proficiency: This could involve drills focusing on marksmanship, tactical movement, and safe handling in high-stress scenarios.
- De-escalation tactics: Emphasis on techniques to defuse potentially violent situations without resorting to using a firearm.
- Legal updates: Ensuring you’re aware of any recent changes in firearm laws and regulations relevant to security officers in Illinois.
- Less-lethal options: Exploring alternative methods for incapacitating suspects, minimizing the need to use a firearm.
- Firearm maintenance and cleaning: Understanding how to properly maintain your firearm for optimal performance and safety.
2. Flexibility in Training Delivery: No More One-Size-Fits-All!
Public Act 102-0152 introduces welcome flexibility in how training is delivered. Previously, basic training was mandated to be delivered in a classroom setting. However, the act now allows for alternative formats such as:
- Seminar settings: These might be intensive workshops focusing on specific topics relevant to security work.
- Online learning programs: Approved online programs offer the convenience of learning at your own pace and schedule.
Benefits of Flexible Training Delivery:
This flexibility caters to different learning styles and schedules. Here’s how it can benefit you:
- Convenience: Online programs or seminars allow you to learn at your own pace and revisit topics as needed. This can be particularly helpful for working professionals with busy schedules.
- Accessibility: Online programs or seminars can offer a wider range of topics compared to traditional classroom settings.
- Catering to Learning Styles: Some people learn best in a classroom setting with in-person interaction, while others might excel in self-paced online learning environments. This flexibility allows you to choose a format that best suits your learning preferences.
Important Note: Regardless of the training format chosen (classroom, seminar, or online), it’s crucial to ensure the program is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
3. Annual Training Updates: Keeping Your Skills Sharp
Public Act 102-0152 introduces a new requirement for all security officers, including those who don’t carry firearms. You’ll now need to complete at least 8 hours of annual training to maintain your license. Those who are armed security officers will be required to complete an additional 8 hours of firearm training every year, for a total of 16 hours of ongoing education yearly.
What to expect in the annual training:
The specific topics covered in the annual training must be approved by your employer and must be relevant to your security work. Here are some potential areas of focus:
- Updates on laws and regulations: Staying informed about any changes in Illinois laws or regulations that could impact your role as a security officer.
- Security best practices: This could include updates on crime prevention techniques, access control measures, and first-aid procedures.
- De-escalation and conflict resolution: Enhancing your ability to handle potentially volatile situations peacefully. (sign up for the course)
- Emergency preparedness and response: Preparing you to respond effectively during emergencies like fires, medical situations, or active shooter scenarios.
- Report writing and communication skills: Strengthening your ability to document incidents and communicate effectively with law enforcement and other parties. (sign up for the course)
Benefits of Annual Training:
This annual training requirement serves several crucial purposes:
- Maintaining Sharp Skills: Regular training ensures your skills and knowledge base stay current, allowing you to perform your duties more effectively and confidently.
- Adapting to Change: The security industry constantly evolves with new technologies and emerging threats. Annual training ensures you’re updated on these changes and equipped to handle them efficiently.
- Enhancing Public Safety: By keeping security officers up-to-date on best practices and procedures, annual training contributes to a safer environment for everyone.
Who Provides Annual Training?
Alpha Koncepts offers annual training for armed and unarmed security officers. Check our courses for online training to meet your annual training requirement. For armed security officers, check the Alpha Koncepts Calendar for advanced firearm training classes.
4. Additional Considerations: It’s Not Just a Minimum!
While Public Act 102-0152 establishes the baseline training requirements, it’s important to remember this might not be the extent of your training needs. Here are some additional points to consider:
- Employer-Specific Training: Many security companies might have additional training programs specific to their operations, clientele, or security protocols. These could involve building-specific procedures, emergency response plans, or specialized equipment training.
- Continuing Education Opportunities: Security professionals who are proactive in their career development might seek out additional training opportunities beyond what’s mandated. This could include specialized courses on topics like armed security, cyber security, executive protection, or crowd control.
Remember: Ask your employer before registering for annual training. Topics of continuing education must be approved by your employer. Employers are required to maintain all certificates of their licensed security officers annual continuing education.
We offer over a dozen certified online training courses to keep you compliant with the Changes to Illinois Security Training Requirements. Check out our complete list of Online Courses for Security Officers.
Resources and Next Steps:
- Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR): The IDFPR website provides a wealth of information for security professionals in Illinois, including details on licensing requirements, training providers, and relevant laws and regulations. https://idfpr.illinois.gov/
- Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004: This Act outlines the legal framework for security professionals in Illinois. You can access the full text of the Act, including the changes introduced by Public Act 102-0152, on the Illinois General Assembly website. https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2474&ChapterID=24
By understanding the Changes to Illinois Security Training Requirements introduced by Public Act 102-0152 and taking advantage of the available training resources, you can ensure you possess the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as a security officer in Illinois. Remember, ongoing training is not just a requirement; it’s an investment in your professional development and a commitment to public safety. Stay informed, stay sharp, and keep up the excellent work in safeguarding communities across Illinois!
