The Different Types of Security Uniforms

Major Types of Security Uniforms

1. Plainclothes

The softest of all security uniforms, plainclothes uniforms are not visually distinguishable to the public. This is especially helpful when discretely watching people in retail environments. It is also beneficial in other places when conducting internal investigations where theft of company property is a problem. These discrete professionals will be able to catch robbers in the act of stealing and more easily spot suspicious activity.

Plainclothes security uniforms should be considered if working in the following locations:

• Retail stores

• Office buildings

• Warehouses

• Public utilities

• Churches and worship centers

2. Casual

Some security managers have their security professionals wear casual clothing such as polo shirts, fleece vests, or windbreakers. This is a good idea especially for professionals who are working during the daytime primarily outside in areas away from motor vehicles. For high visibility and for a hard security uniform, consider having the word “security” in big black letters on the front or back. For a softer look, consider just having a small badge or nameplate on.

Casual security uniforms should be considered if working in the following locations:

• Amusement and water parks

• Beaches, trails, and nature parks

• Cruise ships

• Distribution centers

3. Reflective

Those security professionals working near motor vehicle traffic should be wearing highly reflective vests, jackets, shirts, clothing, and hats. Consider having the word “security” in black on the vest. Reflective clothing is especially important if working outside at night or during foggy or rainy conditions. A rechargeable torch line baton or reflective handheld sign can also be helpful for directing traffic uniform​ and pedestrians.

Reflective security uniforms should be considered if doing the following types of work:

• Parking services for fairs, carnivals, and large events;

• Directing vehicular traffic through your commercial property for special events;

• Helping pedestrians cross busy intersections before and after events; and

• Nighttime security for outside areas that are currently closed to the public, such as beaches and parks.

4. Semiformal

Security managers who want their staff to look semiformal should consider the police look, with a button-up dress shirt in the color blue, black, white, or gray. A small badge or design could be added onto the breast and a patch with the security company’s name near the shoulder. The uniform could also include a tie and/or a hat, and you could consider having a nameplate on the shirt.

Semiformal security uniforms should be considered if working in the following locations:

• Hospitals

• Casinos

• Large entertainment venues

• Retail and shopping centers

5. Formal

Some security professionals want their personnel to look extremely professional while blending in with their environment. These types of uniforms often include a two- or three-piece suit and often don’t have a badge or any indication they are security. Unlike plainclothes uniform security, formal uniform security gives off a classier vibe.

Formal security uniforms should be considered if working in the following locations:

• Secret Service

• Hotels

• Bars and nightclubs

• Escorting famous people

Whether you decide to have your security professionals dress in plainclothes, casual, reflective, semiformal, or formal attire, it’s important that the entire security department have the right tools to be able to do their job safely and effectively.