There has long been a misconception in the private security sector that the performance of the security function is mutually exclusive to the simultaneous application of customer service. At Xiphos, we not only believe this is an incorrect perception but that one compliments the other.

The pandemic has changed many aspects of daily life in America, and for the home state of Xiphos Corp. in California, that is no different. Terms like ‘safety’ and ‘security’ came to take on new meanings, incorporating masks and social distancing to add layers of protection for those at risk. This evolving mindset on protective and, even in some cases, ‘defensive’ equipment also shed light on other products and positions that individuals and businesses needed to rely on to protect themselves from threats.

While it is widely known that diversity and inclusion play essential roles in all industries, the necessity of these attributes in a security team becomes paramount when lives and property are at stake. Ensuring that a security company prioritizes diversity in their hiring process, and therefore is staffing cannabis businesses with individuals from all backgrounds benefits the hired employees and the companies and communities in which they work.

Any business that requires some level of security has a plethora of choices in today’s environment of physical assets, personnel, and technology-driven solutions. Once a thorough Risk or Threat and Vulnerability Assessment has been conducted that recommends active camera and alarm monitoring or on-site security personnel, there are further considerations.

Professionally securing cannabis businesses and facilities is a relatively new endeavor that comes with unique challenges. While security professionals have taken what they have learned from traditional high-risk businesses such as banks, jewelry stores, and pharmacies, cannabis businesses are threatened by risks not typically seen in other businesses.

Situational Awareness is a constant topic of training at Xiphos, but it is also something that we encourage every individual to learn and understand. We believe that everyone should have access to the tools and resources that allow us to keep ourselves safe from violence and theft. With Xiphos’ passion for protection, our goal is that these tips will be used as a catalyst for discussions and education on this topic.