DESCRIPTION OF TRAINING

A close protection officer, more commonly known as a bodyguard, carries out their duties either as part of a team or entirely independently, depending on the assignment. They are responsible for ensuring the protection of individuals during business or private travel, in accordance with the applicable laws.

They are able to ensure the safety of an environment, anticipate risks and take action to protect the person or persons in their care. They also act as a key point of contact and a facilitator for the person under their protection and their family and friends, whilst working with discretion, composure and professionalism.

It is becoming increasingly essential to bring an international perspective to a career as a CPO. This approach must take into account major international bodies such asNATO, theUnion européenne, theEEAS, NGOs, theUN and other organisations operating in sensitive contexts.

A tailored, structured and practical training programme, combined with a recognised qualification, is a major asset for any job application in an international environment.

The training E.C.P.O.™ is developed by S.M.A.T. based on a professional, operational and international approach to close protection.

Certification : Security Institute of Ireland

I: Working as a Close Protection Officer

This section aims to lay the professional foundations for the role of close protection officer, covering the responsibilities, expected conduct, security principles and legal obligations associated with the role.

• Understand the roles and responsibilities of a Close Protection Officer
• Understand basic surveillance, anti-surveillance and counter-surveillance techniques
• Understand the legislation relating to a Close Protection Officer
• Understand the importance of interpersonal skills in a close protection environment
• Understand the importance of reconnaissance in a close protection environment
• Understand search procedures in a close protection environment
• Be able to establish and maintain secure environments

II. Planning, preparation and support for a close protection operation

This section covers the operational preparation for a close protection assignment, from threat assessment through to team coordination, reconnaissance, travel planning and incident management.

• Understand the importance of threat assessment, risk management and operational planning
• Understand the importance of teamwork and operational briefing in a close protection environment
• Understand “on foot” close protection exercises
• Understand the importance of route selection planning
• Understand the importance of transport management in the close protection environment
• Understand incident management in a close protection environment
• Understand site security operations
• Be able to plan and prepare for a close protection operation
• Be able to provide close protection to a ‘principal’.

III: Conflict management in the private security industry

Conflict management is an essential skill in close protection. It helps to prevent escalation, reduce tensions and maintain a controlled environment around the person under protection.

• To understand the fundamental principles of conflict management.
• To recognise, assess and reduce the risks associated with conflict situations.
• How to communicate in emotional situations to defuse conflict,
• How to develop and use problem-solving strategies to resolve conflicts
• Good practices to follow after conflict situations.

IV. Operational Medical Module

The operational medical module aims to familiarise participants with the essential procedures for providing care in a close protection context, particularly in situations where an officer may be faced with a medical emergency, a traumatic injury or a forced evacuation.

Integrated module: CLS MIRA.

V. Prevention and protection in the face of the terrorist threat

This section covers the principles of vigilance, prevention and protection against deliberate threats, particularly in public spaces, during high-risk journeys or in situations involving increased risk.

• Prevention and vigilance regarding suspicious behaviour.
• Prevention and protection in the face of the terrorist threat
• Understanding the safety procedures applicable in a professional context.

VI. An Introduction to Cybersecurity and Digital Threats

Close protection officers operate in an environment where cyber threats can have a direct impact on the security of the person under protection, the confidentiality of their movements, the handling of sensitive information and operational preparedness.

• An introduction to IT cybersecurity and digital threats.
• Raising awareness of the risks associated with communications, data and connected devices.
• Understanding best digital practices applicable in a close protection environment.