Job Description

Vacancy: Security Manager - White River
Description Summary
To ensure the safety and security of patients, staff, visitors, and property within a psychiatric healthcare facility, while maintaining a respectful and therapeutic environment. The Security Manager will oversee the implementation of risk mitigation strategies, manage security personnel, and ensure compliance with PSIRA and healthcare regulations in South Africa.
Requirements:

• Matric (Grade 12); relevant tertiary qualification in Security Management, Criminology, or related field preferred.
• PSIRA Grade A registration (mandatory).
• Minimum 5-8 years of proven experience in a security leadership role.
• Knowledge of South African security laws and crime trends.
• Strong leadership and crisis management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Computer literacy: MS Office, incident reporting systems, and security tech platforms.
• Knowledge of South African mental health regulations, hospital security protocols, and patient rights.
• Strong understanding of risk and crisis management.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make sound decisions quickly.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage respectfully with patients and staff.
• Computer literacy: MS Office, incident management and surveillance systems.
• Valid driver's license and own reliable transport.
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory security experience, preferably in a healthcare or psychiatric environment.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays if required.
• High integrity, discretion, and a proactive attitude.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement security policies, protocols, and procedures in line with PSIRA and relevant South African regulations.
• Manage and lead the security team, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and security audits for all facilities and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Oversee access control systems, CCTV surveillance, perimeter security, and alarm systems.
• Liaise with SAPS (South African Police Service), emergency services, and private security providers.
• Investigate security breaches, incidents, and thefts, and compile detailed incident reports.
• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) and fire safety standards.
• Prepare and manage security budgets, including procurement of security equipment and contract services.
• Provide security briefings and training to staff and executives.
• Respond to emergencies and coordinate evacuation procedures when necessary.
• Develop and implement comprehensive security protocols tailored to a mental healthcare environment, prioritizing safety without compromising patient dignity.
• Monitor access control to all entrances, wards, and restricted areas to prevent unauthorized access and patient absconding.
• Conduct regular patrols and security audits across the facility, including wards, perimeters, and high-risk zones.
• Respond swiftly and professionally to incidents involving aggressive or distressed patients, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum safety.
• Collaborate closely with clinical staff during patient interventions and critical incidents.
• Ensure all security systems (CCTV, panic buttons, alarm systems) are functional and maintained.
• Ensure compliance with the Mental Health Care Act, 2002 and Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Provide ongoing training to staff on personal safety, de-escalation techniques, and emergency procedures.

Strategic and Operational Duties:

• Design and maintain facility-specific security procedures with focus on patient-centered care.
• Perform risk assessments and lead emergency preparedness initiatives (fire, patient elopement, violence, etc.).
• Oversee electronic and physical security systems (CCTV, biometric access, duress alarms).

Team Management:

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise all on-site security personnel.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and maintain discipline within the security team.

Compliance and Liaison:

• Ensure adherence to PSIRA, Department of Health guidelines, and OHS standards.
• Liaise with SAPS, EMS, community forums, and psychiatric nursing staff.
• Report security metrics and incidents to senior management or board, depending on facility type.

Incident Response:

• Lead on-site investigations into breaches, assaults, patient escapes, or theft.
• Support clinical teams during Code Grey (behavioral emergencies) or Code Black (security threat).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Incident Reduction: % decrease in reported patient absconsions, assaults, or thefts over time.
• Response Time: Average time to respond to incidents within the facility.
• Compliance Audit Scores: Score from PSIRA, OHS, and Mental Health Act-related audits.
• Staff Training Completion: % of clinical and non-clinical staff trained in safety & de-escalation.
• Security System Uptime: % uptime of CCTV, alarms, and access control systems.
• Team Performance: Staff retention, absenteeism, and incident handling feedback.

Skills Required