Ethics & Professional Conduct Flashcards

What is the 'duty of care' that security officers owe to the public?

Answer: A legal and ethical obligation to act reasonably to prevent foreseeable harm to persons in the area they are assigned to protect

Duty of care means acting with reasonable care to prevent foreseeable harm. Security officers who fail in this duty can be held liable for negligence.

Why should a security officer avoid making promises to victims or witnesses at an incident scene?

Answer: Because outcomes are uncertain and making promises the officer cannot keep damages trust and credibility

Officers have limited control over investigation outcomes, prosecutorial decisions, and legal proceedings. Promising results they cannot guarantee undermines their credibility and the victim's trust.

What is the principle of 'minimal force' and why is it central to ethical security practice?

Answer: Using the least amount of force necessary to accomplish a legitimate security objective — central to ethics because it minimizes harm to all parties

Minimal force means using only what is necessary and no more. Ethically, it respects human dignity; legally, it is required by the use-of-force justification standards under Texas law.

A security officer notices a coworker appearing to be under the influence of alcohol while on duty. What is the ethical and professional obligation?

Answer: Report the observation immediately to a supervisor — an impaired officer presents a safety risk to themselves, the public, and the client

An impaired officer on duty is a serious safety risk. Reporting to a supervisor is both an ethical obligation and a professional necessity.

What does 'personal accountability' mean in the context of security officer ethics?

Answer: Taking responsibility for your actions and decisions, including mistakes, rather than blaming others or making excuses

Personal accountability means owning your decisions and their consequences. Officers who make mistakes and take responsibility earn trust; those who deflect blame undermine it.

What is the significance of the Texas DPS Code of Conduct for security officers?

Answer: It establishes the ethical and professional standards that commissioned security officers are expected to uphold, with violations subject to commission action

The DPS Code of Conduct establishes binding ethical standards for licensed security officers. Violations can result in administrative action including suspension or revocation of the commission.