What must all force be based on for legality?

All force used by security personnel must be based on the principle that it must be reasonably believed to be necessary. This standard is crucial because it establishes a guideline for determining whether the use of force is justified in a given situation. The concept of necessity is rooted in the idea that any response to a threat or confrontation should be proportionate and appropriate to the circumstances at hand. Security officers must assess the situation and determine whether the force they are considering is appropriate to mitigate a threat or protect others.

This principle helps ensure that security officers act within legal boundaries and are not perceived as using excessive force. It also aligns with the legal standards and expectations across various jurisdictions, which require a justification for the use of any force.

While prevailing laws and codes, personal judgment, and agency training are all important factors in a security officer's decision-making process, the fundamental underpinning is the requirement for the use of force to be necessary and reasonable based on the circumstances. This ensures that the actions of security personnel are defensible both legally and ethically.