NO. 1 2010 - Securitas

32 hours of on-the-job training provided by a
Securitas USA trainer and supervisors. In addition,
a team that serves as fare enforcement officers
on the commuter rail and light rail trains receives
40 hours of specialized training in fare enforcement
procedures.
“Our fare enforcement officers walk the length of
the trains, checking tickets to ensure riders have
paid the appropriate fare,” says M’Liss Bernhard,
Securitas USA branch manager. “They primarily
encourage riders who haven’t paid to buy a ticket,
but they also have the legal authority to issue
citations to violators.”
Fare enforcement was one of the issues addressed
early in 2009, prior to the start of the new Seattlearea
light rail service. In addition to working with
Sound Transit management on security requirements
for the new light rail line, Bernhard assisted
in the development of a policy manual to guide
fare enforcement.
Sixteen Securitas USA officers, all with at least two
years of structured security or military experience,
were hired as fare enforcement officers. Their
training involves extensive role-playing scenarios,
including dealing effectively with disruptive or
malicious behavior, as well as report writing that is
appropriate for court proceedings.
“Placing security officers on the trains has proven
very effective, and I can report that we receive
many more compliments than complaints,”
says Cummins.
partnership for the Future
“We’ve built a strong partnership with Securitas
USA,” adds Qaasim, “and that will help us effectively
manage the further expansion of our mass
transit system.”
On the drawing board are proposals to significantly
increase Sound Transit express bus and Sounder
commuter rail services over the next few years, as
well as extend light rail service several miles north
to the University of Washington. Other initiatives
include working with Securitas USA to integrate
technology upgrades to improve the efficiency of
various security activities and reporting.
“Every day, the actions and demeanor of Securitas
USA officers contribute to the success of our mass
transit system and the support of the riding public,”
Qassim concludes. “We value the relationship.” ¡
Securitas USA Officers
Wayne Klein [left] and Jeff
Patterson patrol and assist
commuters at a Sound Transit
transfer station.
WWW.securitasinc.coM 13