Safety in Policing and Security

Abstract

Police and security work are both widely perceived as dangerous, and the deaths of police officers or security officers attract major headlines. Despite this high profile, there is surprisingly little in-house research on safety, and basic safety measures are frequently neglected. The present chapter summarises international research, showing that both groups are at considerable risk from workplace violence, and are also at risk from workplace accidents. There is also a major problem with preventable deaths and injuries to members of the public as a result of the actions of police and security officers. Analysis of the circumstances of deaths and injuries for all stakeholders indicates a wide scope for improved safety, often through simple changes to procedures, along with the guided adoption of current and emerging technologies.