Drugs Awareness For Security Officers

What is Drugs Awareness?

Drugs awareness involves understanding the types, effects, and risks of drugs that security officers may encounter while on duty. This knowledge helps officers recognise suspicious behaviour, identify potential drug use or possession, and respond safely and professionally.

Being aware of drug-related issues supports the prevention of incidents and ensures a safe environment for staff, visitors, and the public.

Common Types of Drugs

Security officers should be familiar with the most common drugs they may encounter:

  • Illegal Substances: Such as cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, and heroin

  • Prescription Misuse: Abuse of medications like painkillers or sedatives

  • Legal Highs / Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS): Substances designed to mimic illegal drugs but often unregulated

Understanding the effects of these substances helps officers identify impaired behaviour and potential risks to safety.

Indicators and Behavioural Signs

Recognising drug-related behaviour is key for security officers:

  • Impaired coordination, unsteady movements, or unusual posture

  • Agitation, aggression, or unpredictable mood swings

  • Slurred speech, confusion, or reduced awareness of surroundings

  • Possession of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, needles, or wraps

Early recognition allows officers to intervene appropriately and maintain safety.

Response and Reporting

When dealing with suspected drug use or possession, security officers should:

  • Maintain safety and avoid confrontation where possible

  • Follow site policies and legal guidelines for handling drug incidents

  • Notify supervisors or management immediately

  • Involve law enforcement if necessary, ensuring the situation is documented accurately

  • Keep a professional, calm, and non-judgmental approach

Proper response ensures the situation is handled legally and reduces risk to all parties.