How should Protective Security Officers manage lost and found items?

Protective Security Officers are responsible for the safety and security of the premises and the individuals within it, which includes the management of lost and found items. The appropriate procedure for handling such items involves reporting them to the designated lost and found department or following established facility protocols. This ensures that lost items are logged properly and kept in a secure location, increasing the chances that they can be returned to their rightful owners.

Following designated protocols also helps maintain a clear chain of custody for items, ensuring accountability and transparency in handling lost property. It minimizes the risk of theft or loss and adheres to legal and organizational standards which may dictate how lost property should be managed.

In contrast, keeping items at personal desks, discarding them, or attempting to return them directly to individuals can lead to issues such as mismanagement, potential accusations of theft, or even liability if items are not handled correctly. All of these can compromise the integrity of the lost and found process and undermine the responsibilities entrusted to Protective Security Officers.